All the following are seen in Multiple myeloma
**Core Concept**
Multiple myeloma is a malignant proliferation of plasma cells in the bone marrow, leading to an overproduction of monoclonal immunoglobulins (M-protein). This results in various systemic and local effects, including bone lesions, renal impairment, and immunodeficiency.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the pathophysiology of multiple myeloma, where the proliferation of malignant plasma cells leads to the overproduction of M-protein. This M-protein can cause hyperviscosity syndrome, leading to symptoms such as confusion, visual disturbances, and respiratory distress. Additionally, the M-protein can also cause kidney damage by precipitating in the renal tubules, leading to renal failure. The correct answer is related to this mechanism.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect because anemia is a common finding in multiple myeloma due to marrow infiltration by malignant plasma cells, but it is not a direct result of M-protein overproduction.
* **Option B:** While hypercalcemia is a common finding in multiple myeloma, it is not directly related to M-protein overproduction. It is usually caused by the release of osteoclast-activating factors from the malignant plasma cells.
* **Option C:** This option is incorrect because an increased erythropoietin level would typically lead to erythrocytosis, not anemia. In multiple myeloma, the marrow is infiltrated by malignant plasma cells, leading to a relative decrease in red blood cell production.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In multiple myeloma, the presence of lytic bone lesions is a hallmark of the disease. These lesions are caused by the release of osteoclast-activating factors from the malignant plasma cells, leading to bone destruction and hypercalcemia.
**Correct Answer:** B. Hypercalcemia