What to expect from post-treatment surveillance for smouldering myeloma

Smouldering myeloma may have no symptoms, so follow-up looks for changes before they cause obvious problems. Reviews may measure the monoclonal protein, immunoglobulins, blood counts, calcium and kidney function. Urine testing can add information about abnormal protein, and imaging may be considered if bone symptoms or test changes appear.

The schedule is individual and depends on previous results, the amount and type of abnormal protein, and your wider health. A change in one test does not provide the whole answer; your haematology team considers the pattern and may repeat or extend testing.

Attend scheduled tests even when you feel well, and keep a simple record of results, medicines and symptoms. Report persistent bone or back pain, unusual tiredness, repeated infections, bruising, thirst, constipation or changes in urination. Do not start supplements or change medicines without checking with your care team.

Ask how quickly results are reviewed and whom to call between appointments. General preparation information is available in [Follow-Up After Cancer Treatment](/treatments/survivorship-and-rehabilitation/post-treatment-surveillance/).

Contact your haematology team promptly for new or worsening bone pain, marked fatigue, repeated infections, unexplained bruising or reduced urine. Seek urgent care for severe weakness, confusion, sudden difficulty breathing, severe pain or very little urine.

Ask which blood and urine tests you need, whether imaging is planned, what changes would bring the next review forward, which symptoms require urgent help, and how the team distinguishes a temporary result from a sustained change.