What is Multiple Myeloma?

What is Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma is a cancer that affects plasma cells and occurs in white blood cells. It is a disease caused by an abnormal increase in plasma cells. It is a disease that can affect many different parts of the body. The treatment of this disease, the cause of which is not completely clear, is carried out by specialist doctors depending on the condition of the disease.

The disease is caused by the development and rapid proliferation of an abnormal plasma cell in the bone marrow. Another risk factor for the disease, which is more common in men than women, is advancing age.

What are the Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma?

In the early stages, myeloma may not cause any symptoms. It is usually only suspected or diagnosed after a routine blood or urine test. While the symptoms may differ from person to person, the symptoms of multiple myeloma can be listed as follows:

  • Persistent bone pain, usually in the back, ribs or buttocks
  • Fatigue, weakness and shortness of breath due to anemia (anemia)
  • Excessive thirst
  • Stomach pain
  • Frequent urination
  • Constipation
  • Loss of consciousness or confusion
  • Weight loss
  • Blurred vision, headache and dizziness
  • Recurrent infections
  • Bone weakening and fractures

Causes and Risk Factors of Multiple Myeloma

It is not known exactly what causes multiple myeloma. But it is known that myeloma starts with an abnormal plasma cell in the bone marrow. Because cancer cells do not cycle like normal cells, they can accumulate and disrupt the production of healthy cells.

Although the exact cause of the disease is not known, some people may be at risk. The risk of developing the disease increases with advancing age. This disease, which is usually seen in people aged 60 and over, can also be seen in people aged 35 and under, although this is rare. Multiple myeloma risk factors can be listed as follows:

Age: The risk of multiple myeloma increases with aging and cases are usually diagnosed in the mid-60s.

Gender: Although the exact cause is unknown, it is more common in men than in women.

Race: The risk of cancer is higher in black people than in others. However, it is not known exactly why this is the case.

Family History of Multiple Myeloma: Having this disease in a family member increases the risk of developing the disease.

How is Multiple Myeloma Diagnosed?

Multiple myeloma can be difficult to diagnose because it is a rare type of cancer that often shows few or no symptoms in the early stages. In some cases, it can be detected by a specialist when a blood test is performed for a different condition. Myeloma may also be suspected based on the patient's complaints. Diagnostic methods can be listed as follows:

Blood Tests: With blood tests, M proteins produced by myeloma cells can be determined. It can also give some clues to determine kidney functionality, blood count, calcium level and uric acid level.

Urine Tests: Urine tests can determine the presence of M proteins in the urine.

Bone Marrow Examination: For laboratory tests, a bone marrow sample can be taken from the patient and biopsied.

Imaging Tests: Imaging techniques can be used to identify bone problems associated with multiple myeloma. Tests may include MRI, CT, X-ray or positron emission tomography.

If the disease is detected as a result of the tests, the progression and stage of the disease is examined. In line with the examinations, the stage of the disease is determined. Then, depending on the condition and stage of the disease, treatment is planned by the specialist doctor.

What are Multiple Myeloma Treatment Methods?

Multiple myeloma treatment is aimed at alleviating the patient's pain, controlling symptoms, reducing complications, slowing the progression of the disease and improving quality of life. Treatment is not needed in cases where the disease does not progress. The methods applied in treatment can be listed as follows:

Targeted Therapy: Drugs given to the patient intravenously or as pills destroy the proteins in myeloma cells and cause the cancer cells to die.

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy treatment aims to eliminate cancer cells and certain drugs are used.

Corticosteroids: A method used to reduce inflammation in the body.

Radiation Therapy: It is a method applied to eliminate cancer cells. In this application, powerful energy beams are used.

Bone Marrow Transplant: The diseased bone marrow is replaced with healthy bone marrow.

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Updated At05 March 2024
Created At30 March 2023
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