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Macmillan and Cancerbackup merged in 2008. Together we provide free, high quality information for people affected by cancer through our publications, website and phone service. Find out more|.
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The stage of a cancer is a term used to describe its extent and how much it’s affecting the body. Knowing the extent of the myeloma helps doctors decide on the most appropriate treatment| for you.
Generally, myeloma is divided into three stages, which indicate the effect the disease is having on the body and how quickly or slowly it may develop.
A commonly-used staging system for myeloma is the International Staging System (ISS). This system looks at the levels of the blood proteins beta-2 microglobulin and albumin. This will be measured from blood tests|.
Stage I The beta-2 microglobulin level is less than 3.5mg/dL and the albumin level is greater than or equal to 3.5g/dL. This is early-stage myeloma.
Stage 2 Both the beta-2 microglobulin level and the albumin levels are less than 3.5, or the beta-microglobulin level is between 3.5 and 5.5mg/dL. This is intermediate-stage myeloma.
Stage 3 The beta-2 microglobulin level is greater than or equal to 5.5 mg/dL. This is advanced myeloma.
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