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Understanding Your Lab Results
Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the blood—and the results of blood and other lab tests are important for diagnosing and monitoring multiple myeloma.
Your doctor or nurse will need to test your blood or urine on a regular schedule to see exactly how multiple myeloma affects you. These lab tests will help tell your doctor or nurse if your multiple myeloma is under control.
Below is a list of lab tests that are commonly used to keep an eye on multiple myeloma. Use the chart to help you better understand your results. Many of these terms and tests may be unfamiliar—you can read more about them in the glossary.
As you review these charts, please remember that “normal” ranges may vary slightly from lab to lab. Always rely on your doctor for a full explanation of what your results may mean.
Laboratory Assessment
Normal Rangea
Serum Protein Electrophoresis
Protein
6-8 g/dL
Immunoglobulin, Serum
IgA
61-356 mg/dL
Chemistry Profile
Males: 97-137 mL/min
Females: 88-128 mL/min
90-120 mL/min/1.73 m2
Serum-Free Light Chains
Complete Blood Count (CBC) With Differential
Males: 4.32-5.72 x 1012/L
Females: 3.90-5.03 x 1012/L
Males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL (135-175 g/L)
Females: 12.0-15.5 g/dL (120-155 g/L)
Males: 38.8%-50.0%
Females: 34.9%-44.5%
Urine protein electrophoresis
aLab values are ranges based on individual labs; values may vary slightly from lab to lab.
Always discuss your test results with your healthcare team and make sure to ask questions to fully understand what they mean.
Related information
An introduction to common multiple myeloma blood tests and why they may be needed.
Learn about all the different terms to help you better understand multiple myeloma.
Get tips and sample discussion questions to help prepare you for your next doctor visit.
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