Why does the protein levels in my blood keep fluctuating?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have been worrying that I have multiple myeloma, and I cannot stop crying. I am only 27 years old. I have had on and off elevated total protein for the past eight years. Protein was fine before six to seven years, then elevated again. The highest I have seen was the 9.0 range, but it fluctuates. It will be completely normal sometimes at 7.8 and then go up in the next blood draw. I am attaching some of my results. The first two lab reports were of the same night, a couple of hours apart. Lower protein level was after IV fluids. Would I have it low if it was MM? Can you please advise? I will make an appointment with my hematologist as I had seen him before for elevated RBC, which ended up because of sleep apnea.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The following is my opinion on your question:

The globulin level is high in the attached report (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity). But elevated protein does not always mean multiple myeloma. It could be due to temporary inflammation as well. Your protein levels are fluctuating. Physical examination also needs to be done, and if needed, then you can investigate with serum protein immunofixation electrophoresis to rule out multiple myeloma.

However, do not worry, be relaxed. Your chance of multiple myeloma is low as your protein level is fluctuating and comes to a normal range as per history, So the chance of MM (multiple myeloma) is less. Visit a nearby hematologist or internal medicine specialist for further check-up.

I hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Best regards.