Multiple Myeloma
Multiple Myeloma is rare blood cancer wherein the plasma cells are affected. These plasma cells are a vital part of the immune system, responsible for producing antibodies that help fight infections. However, in this condition there is abnormal multiplication of healthy cells to produce multiple abnormal antibodies, leading to severe conditions.
Myeloma in Bone marrow
a. Normal Plasma Cells Production b. Myeloma cells divide uncontrollably
Three stages of Multiple Myeloma are:
Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma includes:
- The most common and the first symptom that arises in the individuals suffering from Multiple myeloma is the bone pain.
- Constant pain bones, hips and chest
- Fever
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Weakness or Numbness in arms and legs
- Feeling of Confusion
- Loss of Apetite
- Weightloss
- Thirstiness
- Decreased platelets count
- Hypercalcemia
- Kidney failure
Causes:
The specific causes of Multiple myeloma are not identified yet but researchers are investigating various factors linking with multiple myeloma. Some of them includes:
- Exposure to chemicals
- Deficiencies in the Immune System
- Genetic factors (Family History)
- Environmental Factors
- Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS)
Diagnostic Tests
- Bone Marrow Test
- Blood Test
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Urine Test
- Imaging Techniques (X-ray, MRI, CT, PET scan)
Treatment options
- Antineoplastic Proteasome Inhibitors
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation Therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Bone Marrow Transplant
- Pain management medications
- Antibiotics
- Corticosteroids
- Stem Cell Transplant
