What is a common diagnostic indicator seen in patients with multiple myeloma during blood tests?

In multiple myeloma, one of the hallmark features that can be observed in blood tests is elevated calcium levels, a condition known as hypercalcemia. This occurs because the increased number of malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow affects the normal bone metabolism, leading to increased bone resorption and release of calcium into the bloodstream.

Hypercalcemia is significant in multiple myeloma as it can lead to various complications, including kidney dysfunction, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and constipation. Monitoring calcium levels is critical in the management of patients with multiple myeloma, as this elevation can indicate more extensive disease activity or complications related to the disease.

While low platelet counts can occur in multiple myeloma due to bone marrow infiltration, it is not as consistent or specific for the disease as hypercalcemia. Decreased glucose and increased bilirubin levels are generally not direct indicators of multiple myeloma, but rather they may suggest other conditions or complications that can arise independently. Therefore, elevated calcium levels serve as a common and key diagnostic indicator in patients with multiple myeloma during blood tests.