Questions to ask: MGUS and smoldering myeloma
Diagnosis
- Do I have MGUS, smoldering myeloma, or active myeloma?
- What type of M-protein do I have, and how much?
- Is my free light chain ratio normal?
- What is my risk group, and what does it mean for me?
- Do I need a bone marrow biopsy? Why or why not?
- Do I need an imaging scan, and which kind?
- Are my blood counts, calcium, and kidneys normal?
- Could the protein be harming my kidneys, nerves, or heart?
- Should I see a hematologist or a myeloma specialist?
- Should my family members be tested?
Before
- How often will I need blood tests, and where will I get them?
- Which test results would make you worried?
- If I have high-risk smoldering myeloma, should I be treated, watched, or join a trial?
- What are the benefits and downsides of starting daratumumab now?
- How long would treatment last, and how often would I come in?
- Will treatment now change my options later if myeloma develops?
- Is there a clinical trial for people like me?
- Do I need a bone density scan or bone medicine?
- Which vaccines should I get?
During
- How will we know if the treatment or watching plan is working?
- Which side effects should I call about right away?
- What should I do if I get a fever or infection?
- Do I need medicine to prevent blood clots or shingles?
- Can I keep working and traveling?
- Are there pain medicines I should avoid?
- Can my next test be scheduled with my other visits?
- Who do I call after hours?
- How can I cope with worry between tests?
After
- Has my risk group changed?
- Can my follow-up tests be spaced out now?
- What new symptoms should make me call before my next visit?
- If I stop treatment, how will you watch me?
- What happens if it changes to active myeloma?
- How can I keep my bones and kidneys healthy?
- Are there support groups for people with MGUS or smoldering myeloma?
- Can I get copies of my results to keep track?
Last updated: 2026-10-27. Medically reviewed by Veli Bakalov, MD, medical oncologist (October 2026). General education from Step by Step, the patient portal of HemeOncBuddy.