Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma is a blood cancer of plasma cells. Our haematologists assess myeloma and related plasma cell disorders at clinics in Sunbury and Williamstown, working with your GP and, where needed, hospital cancer services.
What it is
Plasma cells normally make antibodies that help fight infection. In myeloma, abnormal plasma cells build up in the bone marrow and can crowd out healthy blood production. Some people first come to attention because of bone pain, anaemia, kidney problems, a high calcium level, or an abnormal protein (paraprotein) on blood or urine tests. Closely related findings include MGUS (monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance) and smouldering myeloma, which need specialist interpretation rather than a label from a single result. This page is general information only — it is not a diagnosis. If you have symptoms or an abnormal result, talk to your GP.
How we help
At Western Haematology Network we confirm the diagnosis, explain what the results mean, and plan monitoring or treatment based on current evidence and your overall health. That may include blood and urine tests, imaging, and bone marrow biopsy when it will change care. Treatment, when needed, can involve targeted therapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and supportive care such as bone protection and infection prevention. We coordinate with public hospital myeloma and transplant services if stem cell transplantation or a clinical trial is being considered, and we keep your GP informed after each visit.
For patients
- A GP referral is required. Appointments are available at our Sunbury and Williamstown clinics.
- Bring recent blood results, a current medication list, and any imaging or specialist letters you have.
- Not every paraprotein is myeloma. Some people need observation rather than immediate treatment.
- We will discuss symptoms to report between visits, such as new bone pain, recurrent infection, or unexpected fatigue.
- Questions about prognosis and treatment options are welcome — ask us to explain anything that is unclear.
For GPs
- We accept new and review referrals for suspected or confirmed myeloma, MGUS, smouldering myeloma, and related plasma cell disorders.
- Useful accompanying results include FBC and film, U&E, calcium, protein electrophoresis and immunofixation, serum free light chains, and relevant imaging.
- Please flag hypercalcaemia, renal impairment, suspected cord compression, or rapidly progressive symptoms as urgent and call the rooms.
- We provide written correspondence after consultations and are happy to discuss shared-care monitoring of stable MGUS.
When to refer
- Newly detected paraprotein, abnormal serum free light chains, or unexplained lytic bone lesions
- Anaemia, renal impairment, or hypercalcaemia with a suspected plasma cell disorder
- Bone pain, recurrent infection, or constitutional symptoms with abnormal protein studies
- Known myeloma, MGUS, or smouldering myeloma needing specialist review or ongoing management
Clinics and referrals
Consultations are at Sunbury Clinic, Vineyard Medical Centre, 2-6 Sussex Court, Sunbury VIC 3429, and Williamstown Clinic, Williamstown Specialist Centre, 87 Ferguson Street, Williamstown VIC 3016. A GP referral is required.
Related information
This page is general information about haematology conditions and services. It is not a diagnosis, treatment recommendation, or a substitute for medical advice. Please talk to your GP if you have symptoms or abnormal blood results.