Multiple Myeloma is a type of cancer that affects the white blood cells in the body that produce antibodies. These cells, called plasma cells, are a type of lymphocyte which is one of the five types of white blood cells. When cancer affects plasma cells, the cells start to grow irregularly and in massive numbers. There are many types of cancers of the blood, but multiple myeloma is one of the most common. Out of all the different types of body cancers, multiple myeloma causes death in approximately 2% of those that have cancer.
How Multiple Myeloma Affects Blood Cells
Even though people with multiple myeloma produce many more plasma cells than those that do not have the disease, they are not better off as far as immunity is concerned. Because the proteins that are produced from plasma cells are abnormal, they do not function properly to help destroy foreign invaders. Those with these abnormal cells actually have weakened immune systems. In addition, some of these cells produce a specific protein called Bence-Jones protein which is a sign that the patient has multiple myeloma. These proteins are abnormal and do not serve a useful immune function.
Who Gets Multiple Myeloma
Those that develop multiple myeloma are usually older in age and fall into the 60-75 year old age bracket. African-Americans are much more likely to have the disease than Caucasian or Asian individuals. Typically men are most often affected.
Myeloma Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of this disease are numerous. One of the main symptoms that individuals encounter when discovering multiple myeloma is anemia. Because the bone marrow is overburdened by making cancerous plasma cells, it becomes unable to make normal red blood cells and white blood cells. Not only does this leave the patient with anemia symptoms such as fatigue, but it also causes the patient to be more prone to infections and illness due to the weakened immune system.
Another typical symptom of multiple myeloma is bone pain. As the bone marrow fights to keep up with abnormal cell production, the abnormal cells start to crowd out normal cells and put pressure on the bone marrow cavity. Cracks and fissures start to form on the bones, as well causing pain and fractures. Many patients also find that they are more prone to spinal compression fractures from the weakened bones.
Diseases Related to Myeloma
There are an abundance of other signs and symptoms that result from secondary health issues relating to the primary disease state. Hypercalcemia, amyloidosis, and Raynaud’s Phenomenon are all health concerns that can develop from multiple myeloma. Each of these diseases produces symptoms of their own which can include poor circulation, kidney failure, and nausea with vomiting. Any time a patient experiences these symptoms, he should be evaluated by a licensed healthcare professional for signs of a more serious disease.
Blood Cancer Prognosis
The prognosis for those diagnosed with multiple myeloma is usually very good when the disease is caught early. While up to 15% will die within months of diagnosis, others go on to live several years. Depending on the stage of the disease at diagnosis, life expectancy can vary. The sooner treatment begins; the better off the patient will be prognostically. Treatments will also vary depending on the stage and severity of the disease and symptoms.
Those looking for more information on multiple myeloma and other blood cancers are encouraged to research these diseases. Starting with the links that are provided on this page, readers can begin to search and discover the many treatments that are available for multiple myeloma. Getting a diagnosis of cancer is quite troubling, but gaining insight into the condition can help those suffering with cancer to understand their disease and help them to cope.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Reference:
National Institutes of Health, Medline Plus, Multiple Myeloma, (Accessed December 8, 2010)
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