Multiple Myeloma

Hello,

My father-in-law, an 86-year-old, appears to have multiple myeloma.

We are having real trouble getting a diagnosis.

He's had multiple fractures to his arm for over a year, and although the fracture clinic said that he had myeloma and needed urgent treatment, they just kept referring him back to haematology.

Haematology actually discharged him, saying he had a "bilateral branch retinal thrombosis" despite having just booked him for a bone marrow biopsy for the following week.

We have asked the GP to intervene, but they haven't done anything.

We are in despair as we don't seem to be able to get anyone to treat him. He is currently spending 22 hours a day in bed as he has no energy and cannot remember what time or day it is.

Is there anything we should be doing? Should we see a private specialist? Should we take him to A&E again?

Many thanks.

Sean

  • Hello Sean and thank you for your post,

    I am sorry to learn of your father-in-law's situation this must be very difficult, especially as it is unclear what his diagnosis is.

    I was unsure what tests your father-in-law has done so far and why the fracture clinic thought he might have myeloma. As you are probably aware there are specific tests that need to be done which include blood tests, urine tests, bone marrow tests, and imaging such as CT or MRI scans. You may find it helpful to read our information about tests that diagnose myeloma.

    You mentioned that your father-in-law has now been discharged by haematology even though a bone marrow test had been booked. Not being involved in his care I cannot say why he has been discharged. It might be any test results before this had come back clear and a bone marrow test was no longer needed. 

    You say the GP has not been getting involved, but now your father-in-law has been discharged from the hospital, it would be worth contacting them again, as they will be in charge of his care. They should also have had a letter to explain why he has been discharged from the hospital team. I don't know if they know that he is spending a lot of time in bed, but it sounds like he needs to be assessed.

    If you feel that your father-in-law's condition is deteriorating and he needs to be seen urgently you can contact NHS 111 for advice or take him to A and E.

    I hope this helps a little. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care, best wishes

    Jemma