Clinical and Hematological Profile of Patients with Multiple Myeloma

Abstract

: Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant plasma cell disorder characterized by bone marrow infiltration, production of monoclonal proteins and multi-organ involvement. Early identification of clinical and hematological patterns is critical for diagnosis and management, especially in resource-limited settings. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Haematology at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka from July 2021 to June 2022. A total of 58 newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients were enrolled over a one-year period. Diagnosis was based on International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) criteria. Clinical presentations, hematological parameters, biochemical profiles and radiological findings were recorded and analyzed using SPSS version 22. Results: Most patients were aged ≥60 years (46.6%) and male (62.1%). Urban residents made up 56.9% of the cohort. The most common symptoms were bone pain (82.8%), anemia (69.0%) and fatigue (62.1%). The mean hemoglobin level was 8.9 ± 1.4 g/dL; anemia (Hb <10 g/dL) was present in 69.0%. Elevated ESR (mean 75 ± 20 mm/hr) and rouleaux formation (79.3%) were common. Biochemically, elevated serum creatinine (>1.5 mg/dL) was found in 37.9% and hypercalcemia in 34.5% of patients. Lytic bone lesions were observed in 75.9%, with monoclonal bands present in 89.7% and Bence Jones proteinuria in 31.0% of cases. Conclusion: Bone pain, anemia and renal impairment were the most frequent initial features of MM. Hematological and biochemical abnormalities aligned with classical disease patterns. Early recognition of these findings can aid timely diagnosis and appropriate intervention in clinical practice.