FATAL HYPERCALCAEMIC CRISIS AND ACUTE KIDNEY INJURY REVEALING UNDIAGNOSED MULTIPLE MYELOMA IN AN ELDERLY WOMAN: A CASE REPORT

Haris SULEJMANI, Svetlana Pavleska KUZMANOSKA, Aleksandra CANEVSKA, Zvezdana PETRONIJEVIC, Biljana GERASIMOVSKA

Gulhane Medical Journal - 2026;68(3):212-216

Ss. Cyril and Methodius University Faculty of Medicine, Skopje, North Macedonia

 

Hypercalcaemic crisis is an uncommon initial presentation of multiple myeloma and may rapidly become life-threatening if not recognized promptly. An 83-year-old woman presented with severe hypercalcaemia and acute kidney injury, accompanied by progressive confusion and reduced consciousness. Serum protein electrophoresis revealed a monoclonal immunoglobulin G -lambda spike. The electrocardiography showed a shortened QT interval and Osborn waves. Despite hydration, corticosteroids, and supportive therapy, the patient deteriorated and died within 31 hours. This case underscores the importance of early biochemical evaluation in elderly patients with unexplained hypercalcaemia, as delayed recognition significantly worsens the prognosis.