National Clinical Assessment (NCA) Cellular Practice Exam 2025 - Free Cellular Exam Practice Questions and Study Guide

Multiple myeloma is characterized by an increase in plasma cells in the bone marrow, leading to several systemic effects. One of the key features of the disease is the tendency of the blood to become hyperviscous. This occurs due to the increased production of immunoglobulins by the malignant plasma cells, causing the blood to thicken. Hyperviscosity can lead to a variety of complications, including impaired circulation and increased risk of thrombosis, making it a significant clinical aspect of multiple myeloma.

The other options may relate to aspects of the disease, but they do not accurately describe the core features. Symptoms of multiple myeloma typically develop more insidiously rather than suddenly and intensely. While hypercalcemia can occur as a complication, it is not the hallmark sign of the disease; rather, it is commonly related to bone lesions and osteoporosis seen in affected individuals. The incidence of multiple myeloma does show a higher prevalence in males than in females, but it is not as definitive a characteristic as blood hyperviscosity, which directly impacts the pathophysiology of the disease. Thus, the attribute of hyperviscous blood stands out as a defining and critical component of multiple myeloma.