Understanding Multiple Myeloma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Multiple myeloma is a cancer characterized by abnormal plasma cells building up in the bone marrow, which replaces healthy blood cells. Unlike normal cells that generate useful antibodies, the cancerous cells produce defective proteins, leading to various health issues. Early diagnosis and comprehensive medical intervention are crucial for managing this disease effectively.

Causes

The disease originates from a single abnormal plasma cell within the bone marrow, which is the spongy tissue inside bones responsible for blood production.

This abnormal cell multiplies rapidly, although its exact cause remains unknown. Unlike normal cells, myeloma cells do not mature or die, leading to their accumulation and suppression of healthy blood cell production. This crowding in the marrow impairs immune function and results in symptoms like fatigue. Furthermore, these cells produce abnormal antibodies, known as M proteins, which can damage organs such as the kidneys.

Bone weakening and fractures are common complications caused by the invasion of myeloma cells.

Symptoms

In the early stages, multiple myeloma often presents no symptoms. As the disease progresses, signs may include:

• Bone pain, especially in the spine or chest
• Confusion or mental fog
• Constipation
• Persistent thirst
• Extreme fatigue
• Repeated infections
• Decreased appetite
• Nausea
• Numbness or weakness in limbs
• Unexplained weight loss

Prognosis and Life Expectancy

Research suggests the average survival for treated multiple myeloma patients is approximately four years. However, some individuals live over a decade with proper care, highlighting the importance of early detection and ongoing management.

Risk Factors

• Age: Most diagnoses occur around age 65, with risk increasing with age.
• Gender: Men are more prone to developing myeloma than women.
• Ethnicity: The risk is nearly twice as high in Black populations compared to White populations.
• Genetics: Family history of the disease raises the likelihood of developing myeloma.
• History of MGUS: About 1% annually of those with Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS) develop myeloma.

Complications

• Bone damage: Bone thinning and fractures are common due to marrow invasion.
• Infections: Impaired immunity leads to frequent infections.
• Anemia: Reduced red blood cell production causes fatigue and weakness.
• Kidney impairment: Elevated calcium and M-proteins can hinder kidney function, potentially leading to failure.

Treatment Strategies

Effective management depends on disease stage. Common treatments include:

• Bisphosphonates: Used to strengthen bones and reduce fractures.
• Chemotherapy: Anti-cancer drugs to control or eradicate the disease.
• Plasmapheresis: Removing abnormal proteins from the blood.
• Radiation therapy: Targeted radiation to control tumor growth.
• Stem cell transplant: Replenishes healthy blood cells by transplanting stem cells.
• Surgery: Removal of localized tumor tissue in select cases.