Multiple myeloma, also known as plasma cell myeloma, is a type of cancer that affects plasma cells. In this article, Dr. Partha Mukhopadhyay, a leading clinical oncologist in Kolkata, will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of multiple myeloma. In multiple myeloma, abnormal plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow, crowding out healthy blood cells and leading to symptoms such as bone pain, fatigue, and increased susceptibility to infections. This essay will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of multiple myeloma.
Causes: The exact cause of multiple myeloma is unknown, but researchers have identified several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing the disease. These include Age: Multiple myeloma is more common in people over the age of 65.
Gender: Men are slightly more likely to develop multiple myeloma than women. Family history: People with a family history of multiple myeloma are at increased risk. Race: Multiple myeloma is more common in African Americans and less common in Asians and Hispanics.
Exposure to radiation or certain chemicals: People who have been exposed to high levels of radiation or certain chemicals may be at increased risk of developing multiple myeloma. Symptoms: The symptoms of multiple myeloma can vary depending on the stage of the disease and the organs or tissues affected. Some common symptoms include Bone pain: Multiple myeloma can cause bone pain, especially in the back, ribs, and hips. Fatigue: Many people with multiple myeloma experience fatigue or weakness. Increased susceptibility to infections: Abnormal plasma cells can crowd out healthy blood cells, leading to a weakened immune system. Kidney problems: Multiple myeloma can affect the kidneys, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and swelling in the legs. Anemia: Multiple myeloma can lead to anemia, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Hypercalcemia: Multiple myeloma can cause high levels of calcium in the blood, which can lead to symptoms such as confusion, constipation, and dehydration. Diagnosis: Multiple myeloma is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical exams, blood tests, imaging tests, and bone marrow biopsies. A physical exam may reveal signs of anemia or bone pain, while blood tests can detect abnormal levels of certain proteins and cells. Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs can help identify areas of bone damage, while a bone marrow biopsy can confirm the presence of abnormal plasma cells. Treatment: The treatment of multiple myeloma depends on several factors, including the stage of the disease, the patient’s age and overall health, and the presence of other medical conditions. Treatment options may include Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy drugs can help kill cancer cells and slow the progression of multiple myeloma. Stem cell transplant: A stem cell transplant may be recommended for some people with multiple myeloma. This procedure involves replacing diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy can help shrink tumors and relieve bone pain. Immunomodulatory drugs: Immunomodulatory drugs can help stimulate the immune system to fight cancer cells. Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy drugs can help block specific proteins that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.