As in most things, the most important information can be simple, like knowing what tests you should be getting. Not all cancer doctors get this right, and it’s important for you to know what tests you need so you can get better outcomes. Below are some video excerpts from our HealthTree University curriculum to explain more about myeloma testing.

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2.01 — What testing should be done to confirm a myeloma diagnosis?

Do you have myeloma, a precursor condition, or could it be something else? There are certain tests you should get before you can confirm a myeloma diagnosis and start treatment.

Featuring:

• Ravi Vij, MD, MBA of Washington University in St. Louis

2.02 — Why are bone marrow biopsies (BMB) used in myeloma and what tests are run on the BMB samples?

Bone marrow biopsies are unpleasant and you sometimes wonder - is it necessary?

Featuring:

• Saad Usmani, MD, FACP of Levine Cancer Institute

2.03 — What cells should be examined during FISH testing?

FISH testing is the most common type of genetic testing for myeloma patients. It’s an important part of the testing process.

Featuring:

• Shaji Kumar, MD of Mayo Clinic, Rochester

2.04 — What imaging is used at diagnosis to detect myeloma bone disease?

Is an x-ray good enough to diagnose you with myeloma? This answer may surprise you.

Featuring:

• Jens Hillengass, MD of Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center
• Natalie Callander, MD of University of Wisconsin

2.05 — What other blood tests are useful if you suspect a myeloma diagnosis?

What is important in terms of testing for you?

Featuring:

• Natalie Callander, MD of University of Wisconsin

Want more?

We have over 200 HealthTree University videos online at university.healthtree.org! Learn the basics (and the not-so-basics) of myeloma from some of the top myeloma doctors in the world!

Other HealthTree University Classes:

1. Myeloma Basics Part 1
2. Myeloma Basics Part 2
3. Myeloma Basics Part 3
4. Building Your HealthCare Team
5. Becoming an Empowered Patient
6. Starting Myeloma Treatment
7. Autologous Stem Cell Transplant (ASCT)
8. Precursor Conditions
9. Relapsed and Refractory MM Treatment
10. Myeloma Bone Disease
11. Testing, Monitoring MM Markers
12. [BETA] Multiple Myeloma Genetics and Precision Medicine
13. Classes of Myeloma Drugs
14. [BETA] COVID-19 and Multiple Myeloma