A stem cell (bone marrow) transplant can actually help improve kidney function in myeloma by reducing the levels of abnormal proteins in the blood that cause kidney damage. When myeloma is better controlled, kidneys often work better as a result. However, there's an important caution: if significant kidney damage is already Show Full Answer
A stem cell (bone marrow) transplant can actually help improve kidney function in myeloma by reducing the levels of abnormal proteins in the blood that cause kidney damage. When myeloma is better controlled, kidneys often work better as a result. However, there's an important caution: if significant kidney damage is already present, a stem cell transplant is generally not recommended. In that case, chemotherapy becomes the primary treatment option.
Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Staying well hydrated (2–3 liters of water daily) is essential for protecting kidney function
- Some myeloma medications, like bisphosphonates, need close monitoring as they can affect the kidneys
- Avoid pain medications (like NSAIDs) without checking with your doctor first, as they can worsen kidney function
- A multidisciplinary team involving urology, nephrology, and oncology can be very beneficial — as one MyMyelomaTeam member found, this approach gave "spectacular" results
The good news is that kidney damage from myeloma can sometimes be reversible, especially when treatment is started promptly and includes high-dose dexamethasone. Always discuss your kidney health with your care team before and during any treatment decisions.
August 23
I had major kidney failure shortly after diagnosis and was on three-days-a-week dialysis. 2-1/2 months later I am off dialysis entirely and light chains went from 700s to 1.5. I started immunotherapy—that seems to be what helped
August 28
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