Certainly! CRAB symptoms are key indicators used to diagnose multiple myeloma (MM) and differentiate it from related conditions like monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM). Here's a detailed breakdown:

CRAB Symptoms
1. C - High Calcium Levels (Hypercalcemia)
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Certainly! CRAB symptoms are key indicators used to diagnose multiple myeloma (MM) and differentiate it from related conditions like monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM). Here's a detailed breakdown:

CRAB Symptoms:
1. C - High Calcium Levels (Hypercalcemia)
- Elevated calcium levels in the blood can cause various symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, constipation, and confusion.

2. R - Renal (Kidney) Damage
- Myeloma can lead to kidney impairment, which may manifest as reduced kidney function or kidney failure.

3. A - Anemia
- This refers to a low red blood cell count, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

4. B - Bone Lesions
- Myeloma cells growing in the bone marrow can cause bone damage, leading to pain, fractures, and osteoporosis.

Relation to Multiple Myeloma:
- Diagnosis: The presence of CRAB symptoms helps doctors diagnose multiple myeloma. Patients with MGUS or SMM do not exhibit these symptoms. If they develop CRAB symptoms, it indicates progression to multiple myeloma.
- Monitoring: CRAB criteria are also used to monitor for relapse in patients who have been treated for multiple myeloma. Changes in these symptoms can signal a return of the disease.

Additional Information:
- Bone Marrow: Multiple myeloma is a bone marrow illness where cancer cells grow within the marrow, affecting blood cell production and bone integrity.
- Relapse: Doctors use CRAB criteria to detect relapse by looking for increased calcium levels, kidney impairment, anemia, and bone disease.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the articles on MyMyelomaTeam:
- [Multiple Myeloma: Bone Lesions, Damage, and Pain](https://www.mymyelomateam.com/resources/multipl...)
- [Understanding Hypercalcemia and Multiple Myeloma](https://www.mymyelomateam.com/resources/underst...)
- [What Is the Relapse Rate for Multiple Myeloma?](https://www.mymyelomateam.com/resources/relapse...)

I hope this helps!

 This AI-generated response comes from MyMyelomaTeam and other selected sources. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

7 Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma Relapse To Look Out For | MyMyelomaTeam

Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma | MyMyelomaTeam