15th July 2024

Background

Renal failure is present in around 40% of patients at the time of diagnosis of multiple myeloma, with approximately an additional 20% developing it later in the course of the disease.  It is a serious complication associated with a higher rate of mortality in multiple myeloma and may occur both acutely and chronically. Proteinuria and a raised blood creatinine are the most commonly noted features, though occasionally nephrotic syndrome is seen.