Overview
The Revised International Staging System (RISS) is a way doctors organize multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, into three groups: Stage 1, Stage 2, and Stage 3. These stages show how much cancer is in the body, how serious it is, and how it might grow. This helps doctors choose the best treatment and understand what might happen next.
The RISS looks at four things:
• Serum beta-2 microglobulin: A protein in your blood.
• Serum albumin: Another protein in your blood.
• LDH: A protein that can show how active the cancer is.
• Cytogenetics: Changes in the cancer’s genes.
Understanding your Stage 2 Multiple Myeloma diagnosis will help you partner with your doctors to make the best treatment choice for you. Tap “Watch Now” for an easy-to-understand overview of Stage 2 Multiple Myeloma.
- Stage 3 Multiple Myeloma
Overview
Stage 3 Multiple Myeloma is the most advanced stage of the disease and is associated with a more aggressive form of multiple myeloma. Stage 3 is characterized by specific markers that indicate higher disease activity and a poorer prognosis compared to earlier stages.
In this stage, the following markers are typically present:
- High levels of beta-2 microglobulin (5.5 mg/L or more)
Beta-2 microglobulin is a protein found in the blood, and elevated levels indicate increased disease activity. - Elevated LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase)
LDH is another protein used by doctors to assess how active the cancer is. Higher levels of LDH suggest a more aggressive form of the disease. - High-risk genetic changes
Genetic mutations, such as deletions on chromosome 17 or translocations involving chromosome 14, are associated with a more aggressive and difficult-to-treat disease.
Additionally, serum albumin, another protein in your blood, may be lower in Stage 3, indicating potential organ damage or poor overall health.
What tests will I need and Why?
Blood and Imaging tests are done to understand your general health, confirm your diagnosis and determine your cancer stage.
A bone marrow biopsy is a procedure where a small sample of bone marrow is taken, usually from your hip bone, using a thin needle. This helps doctors examine your cells and identify the type of myeloma cells present. This information is important for finding the best treatment option for you.
If your treatment team has not already performed tests to determine your cancer’s features and stage, please ask your doctor when these tests will be performed.
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Cancerresearchuk.org