Multiple Myeloma's Impact on Kidney Health

How this blood cancer affects the kidneys and ways to treat kidney involvement

Feb. 6, 2026 at 3:15am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Multiple myeloma, a cancer of plasma cells, can damage the kidneys in several ways. The abnormal proteins produced by myeloma cells can clog the kidneys' filters and cause inflammation, leading to kidney dysfunction and even failure. Up to 40% of people with multiple myeloma already have some kidney damage when diagnosed, and between 10-15% eventually need dialysis. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent or manage kidney problems associated with this blood cancer.

Why it matters

Kidney damage is a common and serious complication of multiple myeloma that can significantly impact a patient's health and quality of life. Understanding the mechanisms by which myeloma affects the kidneys, as well as the available treatment options, is important for healthcare providers to properly manage this aspect of the disease and improve outcomes for patients.

The details

Multiple myeloma causes the body to produce abnormal proteins that can accumulate in the kidneys, blocking the filtration system and leading to inflammation and damage. This condition, known as "myeloma kidney" or light chain cast nephropathy, is the most common cause of kidney disease related to multiple myeloma. Other ways myeloma can impact the kidneys include hypercalcemia (high calcium levels) from bone breakdown, as well as side effects from some myeloma treatments. Prompt diagnosis and management of kidney problems is crucial, as early intervention can help preserve kidney function.

  • Multiple myeloma can cause kidney damage at the time of diagnosis for up to 40% of patients.
  • Between 10-15% of multiple myeloma patients will eventually require dialysis due to kidney failure.

The players

Jens Hillengass, MD, PhD

A professor of oncology at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, New York.

Shahzad Raza, MD

A hematologist/oncologist and staff physician at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“When plasma cells are healthy, they fight infection by producing proteins called antibodies. These antibodies consist of heavy chains and light chains, because they have to adjust to any kind of bacteria, virus, or whatever germ comes into the body.”

— Jens Hillengass, Professor of Oncology (WebMD)

“It's not common for our treatments to damage the kidneys, but we really have to be careful when kidney function is bad.”

— Shahzad Raza, Hematologist/Oncologist (WebMD)

What’s next

Patients with multiple myeloma should have their kidney function closely monitored, and any signs of kidney damage should be promptly addressed with appropriate treatment to prevent further decline.

The takeaway

Multiple myeloma can significantly impact kidney health through the production of abnormal proteins and other mechanisms. Early detection and management of kidney problems is crucial to preserve organ function and improve outcomes for patients with this blood cancer.