Multiple Myeloma

What is Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple Myeloma is a type of cancer that forms in plasma cells, a kind of white blood cell that helps the body fight infections by making antibodies. In multiple myeloma, cancerous plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow and crowd out healthy blood cells.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of multiple myeloma is not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified:

• Age: Most people diagnosed with multiple myeloma are over 65.
• Gender: Men are slightly more likely to develop the disease than women.
• Race: African Americans have a higher risk compared to other races.
• Family history: A family history of multiple myeloma or other blood cancers may increase risk.
• Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS): This condition can develop into multiple myeloma over time.

Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma

Common symptoms include:

• Bone pain, especially in the spine or chest
• Frequent infections due to a weakened immune system
• Fatigue or feeling weak
• Weight loss without trying
• Excessive thirst and dehydration
• Nausea or constipation
• Kidney problems caused by high levels of abnormal proteins

Diagnosis and Staging

Diagnostic Tests

To diagnose multiple myeloma, doctors may use the following tests:

• Blood tests: To detect abnormal proteins (M proteins), calcium levels, and other indicators.
• Urine tests: To check for the presence of Bence Jones proteins, which indicate multiple myeloma.
• Bone marrow biopsy: A sample of bone marrow is taken to look for myeloma cells.
• Imaging tests: Such as X-rays, MRI, CT scans, or PET scans to detect bone damage.

Staging

Staging of multiple myeloma helps determine the extent of the disease:

• Stage I: Early stage with fewer cancerous cells.
• Stage II: Intermediate stage, with a moderate amount of myeloma cells.
• Stage III: Advanced stage with many cancerous cells and potential organ damage.

Treatment Options

Treatment varies based on the stage and the patient’s overall health:

• Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific proteins in myeloma cells, such as proteasome inhibitors.
• Immunotherapy: Utilizes the immune system to fight cancer, using drugs that enhance the immune response.
• Chemotherapy: Kills rapidly growing cancer cells and is often used before stem cell transplant.
• Stem cell transplant: Involves replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells, typically following high-dose chemotherapy.
• Radiation therapy: Used to relieve pain and reduce the size of tumors in specific areas.

Prognosis

The prognosis for multiple myeloma depends on various factors, including the stage at diagnosis and the patient's response to treatment. While it is generally considered incurable, advancements in treatment have significantly improved survival rates and quality of life for patients.