General Information About Bone Marrow Cancer
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is when 'plasma cells', the cells of our immune system that fight infections, mutate and completely invade the bone marrow, preventing the production of healthy red/white blood cells.
While leukemia is generally a cancer of the white blood cells (leukocytes), Myeloma is specifically a cancer of the antibody-producing 'plasma cells'. Myeloma has the characteristic of directly punching holes in and dissolving the bones.
There are 4 main symptoms of the disease (CRAB): C (Calcium elevation): Because the bones dissolve, excessive calcium mixes into the blood. R (Renal/Kidney Failure): Cancerous proteins block the kidney. A (Anemia): Extreme fatigue occurs because blood cannot be produced. B (Bone): Severe pain and spontaneous fractures are experienced, especially in the lower back, ribs, and back bones.
Strong suspicion arises with the detection of an abnormal cancer protein called 'M-protein' in blood and urine tests. The definitive diagnosis is made with a Bone Marrow Biopsy taken from the pelvic bone.
Although there is no definitive cure (complete healing) for the disease, it can be kept under control for many years. New generation targeted drugs (Smart Drugs) and immunomodulators are used. At the stage when the disease regresses, an Autologous Stem Cell Transplant performed with healthy stem cells taken from the patient's own blood is the most effective and life-prolonging treatment method.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
