General Information About Multiple Myeloma
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the malignant transformation of 'plasma cells' (which produce the immune system's infection-fighting antibodies) in the bone marrow, creating tumors that disperse throughout the entire skeletal system.
Malignant plasma cells secrete a substance that stimulates bone-resorbing cells (osteoclasts). This causes bones, particularly the spine, skull, and ribs, to dissolve from the inside (lytic lesions) and become perforated like a moth-eaten surface.
These are the 4 primary clinical findings utilized in diagnosing the disease: C (Hypercalcemia/elevated calcium), R (Renal/kidney insufficiency), A (Anemia/low blood count), B (Bone/bone pain and fractures).
Malignant cells produce massive quantities of a non-functional and defective uniform antibody (M protein or monoclonal protein). These proteins increase blood viscosity and can obstruct renal filters, causing kidney failure.
The defective M protein levels in the blood are measured using serum and urine protein electrophoresis tests. Bone resorptions are detected via PET-CT or whole-body MRI. Definitive diagnosis and the density of cancer cells are determined via a Bone Marrow Biopsy.
Rather than classic chemotherapy, targeted smart drugs (Bortezomib, Lenalidomide, Daratumumab) and high-dose corticosteroid combinations are preferred. Once remission is achieved, an Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation utilizing the patient's own cells is performed to keep the disease dormant for years.
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