MULTIPLE-MYELOMA - DIAGNOSTIC CLUES IN A PATIENT PRESENTING WITH INCAPACITATING ARTHRALGIAS

Multiple myeloma is characterized by the production of a monoclonal im munoglobulin, free monoclonal light chains, or both. Although bone pai n is the classic presentation, multiple myeloma should be a considerat ion in differential diagnosis in elderly patients with arthritic compl aints if other typical symptoms or laboratory abnormalities, such as a nemia, hypercalcemia, and elevated ESR, are present. A combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy is the usual treatment.