Explore a detailed overview of multiple myeloma, including its causes, symptoms, risk factors, and the latest treatment options. Learn how early diagnosis and tailored therapies can improve patient outcomes in this complex blood cancer.

Comprehensive Overview of Multiple Myeloma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer resulting from abnormal plasma cell growth in the bone marrow, impacting healthy blood cell production. These malignant cells produce abnormal proteins, leading to various health complications. Multiple treatment pathways exist to manage and combat this disease effectively.

Causes

Myeloma begins when a single defective plasma cell in the bone marrow begins to multiply uncontrollably. The root cause of this mutation remains unclear. Unlike normal cells, cancerous plasma cells do not die off or mature properly, leading to accumulation that hampers normal blood functions. They also produce defective antibodies known as M proteins, which can harm organs like kidneys and increase fracture risks.

In its early stages, multiple myeloma shows no obvious symptoms. As the disease advances, individuals might experience:

Back or rib pain

Cognitive disturbances

Constipation

Intense thirst

Chronic fatigue

Repeated infections

Reduced appetite

Nausea

Numbness or weakness in limbs

Unexpected weight loss

The average survival time with treatment is approximately four years, but some patients may live ten years or longer.

Factors that increase the likelihood of developing multiple myeloma include:

Age: Most cases are diagnosed in individuals over 60 years.

Gender: Men are more frequently affected than women.

Race: African Americans are about twice as susceptible as whites.

Family History: Genetic predisposition can elevate risk.

History of MGUS: About 1% of those with Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS) progress to myeloma annually.

Complications often involve bone damage, increased infection risk, anemia, and kidney problems caused by M protein buildup and bone deterioration.

Depending on the disease stage, treatment options include:

Bisphosphonates: To strengthen bones and prevent fractures.

Chemotherapy: To reduce or eliminate cancer cells.

Plasmapheresis: To remove abnormal proteins from the blood.

Radiation therapy: To destroy localized cancerous tissues.

Stem cell transplantation: To restore healthy blood cell production.

Surgery: To excise localized tumors, especially in early stages.