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.