About Multiple Myeloma

By Kevin on

Name of the medical condition and other names that it’s been known by

  • Multiple Myeloma

  • Myeloma

  • Plasma Cell Myeloma

What is Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that starts in plasma cells, which are a kind of white blood cell found in the bone marrow. Plasma cells help the body fight infections by making antibodies. In multiple myeloma, some plasma cells become cancerous and grow uncontrollably.

When these cancerous plasma cells grow, they can cause several issues:

  • Bone Problems: The cancer can weaken bones, leading to pain and fractures.

  • Low Blood Counts: Healthy blood cells are crowded out, causing anemia (fatigue) and lowering white blood cells, which increases infection risk.

  • Kidney Issues: The cancer can damage the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney failure.

  • High Calcium Levels: As bones break down, they release calcium into the blood, causing nausea, vomiting, and confusion.

Common symptoms of multiple myeloma include:

  • Bone pain

  • Fatigue (feeling very tired)

  • Frequent infections

  • Weight loss

  • Weakness

Because these symptoms are similar to other illnesses, early diagnosis can be challenging.

How is it Diagnosed?

  • Blood Tests: Used to check for abnormal proteins and assess kidney function.

  • Urine Tests: Conducted to find specific proteins produced by cancer cells.

  • Bone Marrow Biopsy: A doctor takes a small sample of bone marrow to look for cancer cells.

  • Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs help identify bone damage.

How is it Treated?

Treatment options focus on managing the cancer and its symptoms:

  • Chemotherapy: Strong medicines to kill cancer cells.

  • Targeted Therapy: Drugs that specifically attack cancer cells.

  • Immunotherapy: Helps the body’s immune system fight the cancer.

  • Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays to kill cancer cells in specific areas.

  • Stem Cell Transplant: Replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy cells.

  • Supportive Care: Manages symptoms and side effects, such as pain or low blood counts.

Trend

  • Approximately 150,000 to 175,000 people in the U.S. have been living with the condition over the last five years.

  • The number of new cases is expected to increase slightly as the population ages, as age is a primary risk factor.

History

Multiple myeloma was first recognized in the mid-1800s when doctors noticed it caused bone pain and fractures. Throughout the 20th century, research significantly improved the understanding of the disease's biology. Today, the availability of stem cell transplants and targeted therapies has helped many patients live longer, healthier lives.

Source of Information

For informational purposes only. Consult a medical professional for advice.


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