Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a cancer that begins in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell. These cells are part of your immune system, which helps protect the body from germs and other harmful substances. Normally, plasma cells help fight infections by making antibodies that recognize and attack germs. Multiple myeloma causes cancer cells to accumulate in the bone marrow, where they crowd out healthy blood cells. Rather than produce helpful antibodies, the cancer cells produce abnormal proteins that can cause kidney problems. In time, myeloma cells collect in the bone marrow and in the solid parts of bones.

Multiple myeloma is a relatively uncommon cancer in the United States. It may run in families. Men are slightly more likely to develop multiple myeloma than women.

Multiple myeloma may not cause signs or symptoms for a long time and is often not found until it is advanced. Myeloma tumors can weaken the bone, cause too much calcium in the blood, and damage the kidneys and other organs. Bone pain is a common symptom of advanced multiple myeloma. Other signs and symptoms include frequent infections, anemia, bleeding, numbness or tingling, and weakness.

Treatment for multiple myeloma is not always necessary. If you are not experiencing signs and symptoms, you may not require treatment. If signs and symptoms develop, a number of treatments can help control your multiple myeloma, including chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation, radiation, or targeted therapy.

The exact cause of multiple myeloma is not known. In general, cancer begins when a series of genetic mutations occur within a cell, causing the cell to grow and multiply out of control. It is not clear what causes the initial genetic mutations that lead to multiple myeloma, though researchers have identified genetic variations that are related to multiple myeloma. Having other plasma cell diseases increases the risk of multiple myeloma.

See your doctor for persistent bone pain (often back or ribs), frequent infections, unusual fatigue, or unexplained weight loss. Blood and urine tests can detect myeloma, and early treatment helps.