Multiple myeloma is a rare blood malignancy that affects the plasma cells. They are white blood cells that form part of the immune system (also known as B-cells) and produce antibodies. Antibodies play a crucial role in the body’s defence against infection. Multiple myeloma develops when healthy cells undergo abnormalities and multiply, resulting in the creation of abnormal antibodies known as M proteins. This change initiates a chain reaction of diseases and health issues that can impair your kidneys, bones, and your body’s ability to generate healthy red and white blood cells and platelets.
At ILS Hospitals, treatment for multiple myeloma is personalized, using a combination of chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy. Our expert hematologists and oncologists use advanced diagnostic tools like bone marrow biopsy, blood tests, and X-rays to accurately diagnose and stage multiple myeloma. Based on the patient’s condition, we develop a tailored treatment plan to manage symptoms, control disease progression, and improve overall survival. We provide comprehensive care, offering both medical treatments and support throughout the treatment journey for patients with multiple myeloma.
Symptoms
There may be no symptoms in the early stages of multiple myeloma. When signs and symptoms occur, they may include:
- Bone pain, especially in the spine, chest, or hips.
- Nausea.
- Constipation.
- Loss of appetite.
- Mental fogginess or confusion.
- Tiredness.
- Infections.
- Weight loss.
- Weakness.
- Thirst.
- Need to urinate often.
Causes
Healthcare providers and researchers are uncertain about the causes of multiple myeloma. Some potential causes they are looking into include:
- Genetic mutations
- Environmental factors
- Having an inflammatory disease or condition
- Having obesity
Diagnosis and Tests
Our pathologists perform blood, imaging, and urine tests to determine whether you have multiple myeloma and, if so, whether your disease is in its early or late stages. Specific tests include a complete blood count (CBC), blood chemistry tests, quantitative immunoglobulin tests, electrophoresis, urine tests, X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, positron emission tomography (PET) scans, and bone marrow biopsies.
Stage of multiple myeloma
We perform staging for multiple myeloma and other malignant diseases to determine their size and location. The staging process for multiple myeloma begins by identifying the disease in one of four groups:
- MGUS: Blood tests reveal small amounts of M protein. Approximately 1% to 2% of people with MGUS develop multiple myeloma.
- Solitary or isolated plasmacytomas: These are single groups of abnormal plasma cells.
- SMM: This type of multiple myeloma is precancerous. People with SMM may experience mild symptoms, and tests reveal small amounts of M protein in their blood, along with an increase in plasma cells in their bone marrow.
- Multiple myeloma: This classification indicates that tests reveal various types of aberrant plasma cells, elevated M protein levels in blood or urine, and a significant percentage of abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow. People in this category frequently suffer anaemia, hypercalcemia, kidney failure, and osteolytic lesions.
Prevention
Multiple myeloma prevention focuses on reducing risk factors associated with the disease. Maintain a healthy weight, avoid tobacco, and limit exposure to harmful chemicals and radiation. Regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and managing chronic infections may help. While no guaranteed prevention exists, early detection through routine checkups and monitoring high-risk individuals can support better outcomes.
