Spread of multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma is usually widespread by the time it is diagnosed. It affects multiple (more than 1) bones or multiple areas of a bone.

The most common bones where multiple myeloma occurs include:

• spine (vertebrae)
• ribs
• breastbone (sternum)
• hips
• shoulder blade (scapula)
• skull
• upper arm bone (humerus)
• upper leg bone (femur)

Doctors measure substances in the blood or urine to see if the disease is progressing, or getting worse. This includes measuring levels of:

• hemoglobin
• calcium
• monoclonal protein (M-protein)
• creatinine
• beta-2-microglobulin