Understanding Multiple Myeloma: Causes, Signs, and Therapeutic Options

Discover essential information about multiple myeloma, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Learn how this blood cancer affects the immune system, identify early signs, and explore available therapeutic strategies. Although a permanent cure isn't available yet, early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the disease and improve quality of life.

Understanding Multiple Myeloma: Causes, Signs, and Therapeutic Options

Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer where abnormal plasma cells multiply uncontrollably, producing excessive proteins and defective antibodies. These accumulate in the bone marrow, weakening the immune system and increasing vulnerability to infections and other illnesses.

Risk Factors for Multiple Myeloma

The exact cause remains unknown, but several factors may influence risk levels. Men are more prone than women, and age is a significant factor, with older individuals more susceptible. Obesity, radiation exposure, certain occupational hazards, family history, and pre-existing plasma cell disorders also elevate the risk.

Early symptoms are often subtle, but as the disease progresses, individuals may experience:

Bone pain, especially in the chest and spine

Persistent nausea

Constipation

Loss of appetite

Mental confusion

Fatigue and weakness

Frequent infections

Noticeable weight loss

Numbness in the legs and weakness

Excessive thirst

Managing multiple myeloma involves various treatments aimed at controlling the disease, although a permanent cure is currently unavailable. Treatments include:

Chemotherapy: Medications like Melphalan and Etoposide, administered via injection or orally, often precede bone marrow transplants.

Targeted Therapy: Drugs like Bortezomib and Carfilzomib specifically target cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue.

Corticosteroids: Steroids like Dexamethasone help fight cancer cells and reduce inflammation, given orally or through injections.

Radiation Therapy: High-energy X-rays destroy cancer cells, preventing their spread.

Bone Marrow Transplant: Replacing diseased marrow with healthy stem cells helps to inhibit cancer progression.