What is Multiple Myeloma?

2021-05-24

what

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection. Plasma cells are found in the bone marrow and make antibodies, which are proteins that attack foreign substances in the body. In multiple myeloma, plasma cells become cancerous and start multiplying uncontrollably, crowding out healthy cells. It can cause damage to bones, kidneys, and the immune system.

Multiple myeloma is a relatively rare cancer, accounting for only about 1% of all cancers. It is more common in men than in women, and the average age at diagnosis is 65 years. However, it can occur at any age. Multiple myeloma is also more common in African Americans than in Caucasians.

Multiple myeloma is a serious disease, but it is treatable. With the right treatment, people with multiple myeloma can live long, full lives. The main goal of treatment is to destroy the cancerous plasma cells and prevent them from coming back. Treatment options for multiple myeloma include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplantation.

What is Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells.

Cancer of plasma cells
Forms in bone marrow
Produces abnormal antibodies
Can damage bones, kidneys
Treatable with therapy
Relatively rare cancer
More common in men
Average age at diagnosis: 65
More common in African Americans

Multiple myeloma is a serious disease, but it is treatable. With the right treatment, people with multiple myeloma can live long, full lives.

Cancer of Plasma Cells

Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection. They are found in the bone marrow and make antibodies, which are proteins that attack foreign substances in the body. In multiple myeloma, plasma cells become cancerous and start multiplying uncontrollably, crowding out healthy cells. This can cause damage to bones, kidneys, and the immune system.

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells. It is a type of blood cancer that starts in the bone marrow. Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infection. In multiple myeloma, plasma cells become cancerous and start to grow out of control. This can cause damage to the bones, kidneys, and other organs.

Multiple myeloma is a relatively rare cancer, but it is the second most common type of blood cancer after non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It is more common in men than in women, and the average age at diagnosis is 65 years old. However, it can occur at any age.

The exact cause of multiple myeloma is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some people with multiple myeloma have a family history of the disease, suggesting that there may be a genetic component. Exposure to certain chemicals, such as benzene and formaldehyde, has also been linked to an increased risk of multiple myeloma.

Forms in Bone Marrow

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells, which are a type of white blood cell that is found in the bone marrow. Plasma cells help the body fight infection by producing antibodies. In multiple myeloma, plasma cells become cancerous and start to grow out of control. This can cause damage to the bones, kidneys, and other organs.

Multiple myeloma starts in the bone marrow, which is the soft, spongy tissue inside bones. The bone marrow is where blood cells are made. In multiple myeloma, the cancerous plasma cells crowd out the healthy blood cells, making it difficult for the body to produce enough healthy red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

The cancerous plasma cells can also produce abnormal antibodies, which are proteins that can attack healthy tissues in the body. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including bone pain, fatigue, weight loss, and kidney problems.

Multiple myeloma can also spread to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, liver, and lungs. This is called advanced multiple myeloma. Advanced multiple myeloma is more difficult to treat than early-stage multiple myeloma, but there are still treatment options available.

Produces Abnormal Antibodies

In multiple myeloma, the cancerous plasma cells produce abnormal antibodies. These antibodies are not able to fight infection properly, and they can also attack healthy tissues in the body.

High levels of antibodies: Multiple myeloma cells produce large amounts of abnormal antibodies, which can lead to a condition called hyperglobulinemia. This can cause the blood to become thick and syrupy, which can lead to problems such as fatigue, weakness, and vision problems.
Abnormal antibody structure: The abnormal antibodies produced by multiple myeloma cells often have an unusual structure. This can make them less able to fight infection and more likely to attack healthy tissues.
Autoantibodies: Some of the abnormal antibodies produced by multiple myeloma cells are autoantibodies, which means that they attack the body's own tissues. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, depending on which tissues are being attacked.
Amyloid protein: In some cases, the abnormal antibodies produced by multiple myeloma cells can form amyloid protein. Amyloid protein can deposit in various organs and tissues, leading to a condition called amyloidosis. Amyloidosis can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on which organs are affected.

The abnormal antibodies produced by multiple myeloma cells can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:

Bone pain
Fatigue
Weight loss
Kidney problems
Anemia
Infections
Hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood)

Can Damage Bones, Kidneys

Multiple myeloma can damage bones and kidneys because of the abnormal proteins (paraproteins) that the cancerous plasma cells produce. These proteins can interfere with the normal function of bones and kidneys.

Bone damage: Multiple myeloma can cause bones to become weak and porous, which can lead to fractures. This is because the cancerous plasma cells produce a protein called osteoclast-activating factor (OAF), which stimulates bone-destroying cells called osteoclasts. As a result, bones can become weak and more likely to fracture.
Kidney damage: The abnormal proteins produced by multiple myeloma cells can also damage the kidneys. This is because the kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood. The abnormal proteins can build up in the kidneys and damage the kidney cells. In some cases, multiple myeloma can lead to kidney failure.

Multiple myeloma can also cause other health problems, including:

Anemia: Multiple myeloma can interfere with the production of red blood cells, which can lead to anemia. Anemia can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
Hypercalcemic: Multiple myeloma can cause high levels of calcium in the blood, which is called hypercalcemic. Hypercalcemic can cause problems such as confusion, nausea, and vomiting.
Infections: Multiple myeloma can also lead to infections because the abnormal proteins can interfere with the body's immune system.

Treatable with Therapy

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a type of drug treatment that uses chemicals to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy is often used to treat multiple myeloma, either alone or in combination with other treatments.
Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy is often used to treat multiple myeloma that is localized to one area of the body.
Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy is a type of drug treatment that targets specific molecules that are involved in the growth and survival of cancer cells. Targeted therapy is often used to treat multiple myeloma, especially in patients who have relapsed or who are resistant to chemotherapy.
Stem cell transplantation: Stem cell transplantation is a procedure that uses healthy stem cells to replace the cancerous plasma cells. Stem cell transplantation is often used to treat multiple myeloma in younger patients who are otherwise healthy.

The type of treatment that is best for a particular patient will depend on a number of factors, including the stage of the disease, the patient's age and overall health, and the patient's preferences. Multiple myeloma is a complex disease, and there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. However, with the right treatment, people with multiple myeloma can live long, full lives.

In addition to the treatments listed above, there are a number of other things that people with multiple myeloma can do to improve their quality of life and overall health. These include:

Eating a healthy diet
Getting regular exercise
Getting enough sleep
Managing stress
Joining a support group

Multiple myeloma is a serious disease, but it is important to remember that there is hope. With the right treatment and support, people with multiple myeloma can live long, full lives.

Relatively Rare Cancer

Multiple myeloma is a relatively rare cancer, accounting for only about 1% of all cancers. This means that it is not as common as other types of cancer, such as breast cancer, lung cancer, and colon cancer.

However, multiple myeloma is still the second most common type of blood cancer after non-Hodgkin lymphoma. In the United States, there are about 30,000 new cases of multiple myeloma diagnosed each year.

Multiple myeloma is more common in men than in women, and the average age at diagnosis is 65 years old. However, it can occur at any age.

Despite being a relatively rare cancer, multiple myeloma is still a serious disease. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of multiple myeloma so that you can seek medical attention if you think you may have the disease.

The signs and symptoms of multiple myeloma can include:

Bone pain
Fatigue
Weight loss
Kidney problems
Anemia
Infections
Hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood)

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment of multiple myeloma can improve the chances of a successful outcome.

More Common in Men

Multiple myeloma is more common in men than in women. The reason for this is not fully understood, but there are a few possible explanations.

Hormonal factors: Some studies have suggested that hormones may play a role in the development of multiple myeloma. For example, men who have higher levels of testosterone may be at an increased risk of developing the disease.
Occupational exposure: Men are more likely than women to be exposed to certain chemicals and toxins that have been linked to an increased risk of multiple myeloma. For example, men who work in jobs that involve exposure to benzene and formaldehyde may be at an increased risk.
Genetic factors: Some studies have suggested that there may be a genetic component to multiple myeloma. Men may be more likely to inherit certain genetic mutations that increase their risk of developing the disease.
Other factors: Other factors that may contribute to the higher incidence of multiple myeloma in men include smoking, obesity, and a family history of the disease.

It is important to note that, while men are more likely to develop multiple myeloma than women, the disease can still occur in women. In fact, multiple myeloma is the third most common cancer among women over the age of 50.

If you are concerned about your risk of developing multiple myeloma, talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you assess your risk and develop a plan to reduce your risk, if necessary.

Average Age at Diagnosis: 65

The average age at diagnosis for multiple myeloma is 65 years old. This means that most people who are diagnosed with multiple myeloma are over the age of 65.

However, it is important to note that multiple myeloma can occur at any age. There have been cases of multiple myeloma in people as young as 20 years old. However, these cases are rare.

The reason why multiple myeloma is more common in older adults is not fully understood. However, there are a few possible explanations.

Age-related changes in the immune system: As people age, their immune system becomes less effective at fighting off infections and diseases. This may make them more susceptible to developing multiple myeloma.
Accumulation of genetic mutations: Over time, cells in the body can accumulate genetic mutations. These mutations can lead to the development of cancer. The longer a person lives, the more likely they are to accumulate genetic mutations that could lead to multiple myeloma.
Exposure to environmental toxins: Older adults may have had more exposure to environmental toxins, such as benzene and formaldehyde, which have been linked to an increased risk of multiple myeloma.

It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of multiple myeloma, regardless of your age. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is important to see your doctor right away:

Bone pain
Fatigue
Weight loss
Kidney problems
Anemia
Infections
Hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood)

Early diagnosis and treatment of multiple myeloma can improve the chances of a successful outcome.

More Common in African Americans

Multiple myeloma is more common in African Americans than in Caucasians. The reason for this is not fully understood, but there are a few possible explanations.

Genetic factors: Some studies have suggested that African Americans may be more likely to inherit certain genetic mutations that increase their risk of developing multiple myeloma.
Environmental factors: African Americans may be more likely to be exposed to certain environmental factors that have been linked to an increased risk of multiple myeloma. For example, African Americans are more likely to live in areas with high levels of air pollution.
Socioeconomic factors: African Americans are more likely to live in poverty and have less access to healthcare. This can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment of multiple myeloma, which can worsen the prognosis.

It is important to note that, while African Americans are more likely to develop multiple myeloma than Caucasians, the disease can still occur in people of all races and ethnicities.

One study found that African Americans with multiple myeloma were more likely to have a higher disease burden, more advanced disease at diagnosis, and a shorter survival time than Caucasians with multiple myeloma. This suggests that African Americans may need more aggressive treatment for multiple myeloma.

More research is needed to understand why African Americans are more likely to develop multiple myeloma and to develop more effective treatments for the disease in this population.

If you are concerned about your risk of developing multiple myeloma, talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you assess your risk and develop a plan to reduce your risk, if necessary.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about multiple myeloma:

Question 1: What is multiple myeloma?
Answer 1: Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection. In multiple myeloma, plasma cells become cancerous and start multiplying uncontrollably, crowding out healthy cells. This can cause damage to bones, kidneys, and the immune system.

Question 2: What are the symptoms of multiple myeloma?
Answer 2: The symptoms of multiple myeloma can include bone pain, fatigue, weight loss, kidney problems, anemia, infections, and hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood).

Question 3: What causes multiple myeloma?
Answer 3: The exact cause of multiple myeloma is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some people with multiple myeloma have a family history of the disease, suggesting that there may be a genetic component. Exposure to certain chemicals, such as benzene and formaldehyde, has also been linked to an increased risk of multiple myeloma.

Question 4: Who is at risk for multiple myeloma?
Answer 4: Multiple myeloma is more common in men than in women, and the average age at diagnosis is 65 years old. However, it can occur at any age. Multiple myeloma is also more common in African Americans than in Caucasians.

Question 5: How is multiple myeloma diagnosed?
Answer 5: Multiple myeloma is diagnosed with a variety of tests, including blood tests, urine tests, bone marrow tests, and imaging tests.

Question 6: How is multiple myeloma treated?
Answer 6: The treatment for multiple myeloma depends on the stage of the disease and the patient's overall health. Treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplantation.

Question 7: What is the prognosis for multiple myeloma?
Answer 7: The prognosis for multiple myeloma depends on the stage of the disease and the patient's overall health. With treatment, many people with multiple myeloma can live long, full lives.

Closing Paragraph for FAQ:
If you have any other questions about multiple myeloma, please talk to your doctor.

The following tips can help you reduce your risk of developing multiple myeloma:

Tips

The following tips can help you reduce your risk of developing multiple myeloma:

Tip 1: Avoid exposure to benzene and formaldehyde.

Benzene is a chemical that is found in gasoline, cigarette smoke, and some industrial products. Formaldehyde is a chemical that is used in the production of building materials, furniture, and some household products. Both benzene and formaldehyde have been linked to an increased risk of multiple myeloma.

Tip 2: Maintain a healthy weight.

Obesity is a risk factor for multiple myeloma. Maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce your risk of developing the disease.

Tip 3: Get regular exercise.

Regular exercise has been linked to a reduced risk of multiple myeloma. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

Tip 4: Eat a healthy diet.

Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to reduce your risk of multiple myeloma. Limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and red meat.

Closing Paragraph for Tips:

Following these tips can help you to reduce your risk of developing multiple myeloma. However, it is important to remember that there is no surefire way to prevent the disease. If you are concerned about your risk of developing multiple myeloma, talk to your doctor.

Multiple myeloma is a serious disease, but it is important to remember that there is hope. With early diagnosis and treatment, many people with multiple myeloma can live long, full lives.

Conclusion

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection. In multiple myeloma, plasma cells become cancerous and start multiplying uncontrollably, crowding out healthy cells. This can cause damage to bones, kidneys, and the immune system.