The findings of a recent study suggest that the progression of both multiple myeloma and myeloma-related bone disease may be determined by measuring the levels of key proteins commonly found in bones. The study was published in the European Journal of Haematology.

Myeloma cells not only stimulate the formation of cells that break down bone, but also inhibit cells responsible for bone formation.  As a result, multiple myeloma patients have a high rate of bone disease characterized by bone pain and fractures.

Patients are typically treated with bisphosphonates to protect against …