Multiple Myeloma Treatment

Signs & Symptoms

 Symptoms of this condition may vary but often include the following:

• Bone pain: Often in the back, ribs, or hips due to bone damage or fractures.
• Weakness or fatigue: Resulting from anemia or the body's inability to produce enough healthy red blood cells.
• Frequent infections: Because abnormal plasma cells don't make effective antibodies.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Nausea or constipation: Caused by high calcium levels in the blood (hypercalcemia).
• Kidney problems: High levels of abnormal proteins can damage the kidneys, leading to difficulty in filtering waste.
• Bruising or bleeding: Low levels of platelets can lead to easy bruising and bleeding.

Causes

 While the exact cause of multiple myeloma is not fully understood, certain factors can contribute to its development:

• Genetic mutations: Changes in the DNA of plasma cells may lead to cancer development.
• Age: Most cases occur in people over the age of 60.
• Radiation exposure: Exposure to radiation or certain chemicals may increase the risk.
• Family history: Having a family member with multiple myeloma may increase the likelihood of developing it.

When to seek medical attention?

 You should consult a doctor if you experience:

• Persistent bone pain or unexplained fractures.
• Weakness or fatigue that doesn't improve with rest.
• Frequent infections or illnesses.
• Unexplained weight loss or severe fatigue.
• Any symptoms of kidney problems (e.g., swelling, fatigue, or changes in urine output).

Risk Factors

 Several factors are associated with an increased risk of developing multiple myeloma, including:

• Age: Multiple myeloma is more common in older adults, particularly those over 65.
• Gender: Men are slightly more likely to develop multiple myeloma than women.
• Race: African Americans have a higher risk compared to other racial groups.
• Family history: Having a close relative with multiple myeloma or other blood cancers increases risk.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk.
• Certain plasma cell disorders: Conditions like monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) can sometimes develop into multiple myeloma.

Diagnostic & Test

 To diagnose multiple myeloma, doctors may use a combination of the following tests:

• Blood tests are performed to check for abnormal proteins (M proteins), high calcium levels, and kidney function.
• Urine tests: To detect the presence of Bence-Jones proteins, an abnormal protein found in multiple myeloma.
• Bone marrow biopsy: A sample of bone marrow is taken to look for cancerous plasma cells.
• Imaging tests: X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans are used to look for bone damage or fractures.
• Bone density tests: To assess the health of the bones, as multiple myeloma weakens them.

Treatment Procedure

 Treatment for multiple myeloma depends on the stage of the disease and the patient's overall health. Common treatments include:

• Chemotherapy:
  • Medications are used to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing.
  • Common drugs include melphalan, cyclophosphamide, and bortezomib.
• Targeted Therapy:
  • Uses drugs that specifically target the abnormal proteins or genes involved in cancer cell growth.
  • Proteasome inhibitors (e.g., bortezomib) and monoclonal antibodies (e.g., daratumumab) are often used.
• Immunotherapy:
  • It helps boost the body's immune system to fight cancer cells.
  • Drugs like lenalidomide and pomalidomide enhance immune response.
• Stem Cell Transplant:
  • Also called a bone marrow transplant, this treatment involves replacing diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells.
  • This procedure allows high-dose chemotherapy to kill more cancer cells, followed by stem cell infusion to regenerate healthy blood cells.
• Radiation Therapy:
  • High-energy radiation is used to target specific areas of the body where multiple myeloma is causing bone damage or pain.
• Bone-strengthening Medications:
  • Drugs like bisphosphonates (e.g., zoledronic acid) or denosumab can help protect bones from damage and reduce the risk of fractures.

Do’s & Don’ts

 Do's:

• Follow the treatment plan as your doctor advises, including medications and therapy.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps support kidney function.
• Maintain a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support your immune system.
• Get regular check-ups to monitor your health and catch any changes early.
• Exercise gently: Light exercises, like walking, can help maintain bone strength and improve well-being.
• Take prescribed bone-strengthening medications to prevent fractures.

 Don'ts:

• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity: This can increase the risk of bone fractures.
• Don't skip medication: Missing prescribed medication doses can hinder treatment effectiveness.
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol: These habits can worsen symptoms and slow recovery.
• Don't ignore symptoms: Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor immediately.

NOTE:

Our medical content authors have diligently gathered and synthesized information on this topic to offer valuable insights to our readers. Drawing from a range of reputable medical journals and health resources, this content aims to enhance understanding of the subject. It's important to remember that while this information is informative, it should not replace personalized consultation or treatment from a qualified physician. For further details, please refer to our Editorial Policy.

For this topic, our authors used some of the following resources:

1. nhs.uk | Multiple myeloma - Treatment
2. National Cancer Institute (.gov) | Plasma Cell Neoplasms (Including Multiple Myeloma)
3. Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation | Multiple Myeloma Treatments | Drugs & Treatment by Stage
4. Cancer Research Institute | Immunotherapy for Multiple Myeloma
5. Cancer Research UK | Treatment options for myeloma