[TXMike]

Recently diagnosed multiple myeloma

by TXMike on Fri Jan 27, 2017 5:53 pm

17 years ago, a very thorough physician conducted a number of tests prior to my taking a 2-year overseas assignment to Romania. I was diagnosed with MGUS at that time. I had a bone marrow biopsy and skeletal survey that were negative. I have changed healthcare providers several times since then and always had a hematology consult to keep track of the MGUS.

This fall, my MGUS became stage 1 multiple myeloma IgG kappa light chain, without first passing through the smoldering stage, so I was caught somewhat by surprise that this was not something in the distant future but present day concern. Recent skeletal X-rays show one involvement is a single lesion on the femur 10 multiple myeloma in size, and the bone marrow biopsy had 15% myeloma cells. My other labs are generally within range, although my HGB is somewhat low at 9.6 - perhaps why I get winded after one flight of stairs.

I am now in my third cycle of Velcade, Revlimid and dex in January, and have had one infusion of Zometa last month. I will meet with my oncologist in mid-February after the 4th cycle to see where we stand. Fortunately, I do not have any enhanced risk indicators, and am in generally good health, although I have well controlled diabetes and high blood pressure.