Multiple myeloma is a cancer of a type of white blood cells called plasma cells. White blood cells function to rid the body of foreign matter. As the white blood cells grow out of control, they produce antibodies which cause the body's other white blood cells to attack the bones. This leads to decreased bone mass and bone pain. The pain can be managed with medication, but treating the cancer is key in restoring the bones to as close as normal as possible.
Multiple Myeloma
According to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, almost 20,000 people will be diagnosed with multiple myeloma (MM) in the United States each year. MM occurs when certain white blood cells called plasma cells begin to reproduce abnormally and out of control. Plasma cells are the white blood cells that produce antibodies to help fight infection. Because of MM, the plasma cells will produce abnormal antibodies that may turn against the body's own tissues.
Myeloma Bone Disease
Among the symptoms of MM are lesions in the bones from the accumulation of plasma cells which cause bone disease. These lesions come about when the antibodies and plasma cells "tag" bone tissue for destruction as if it was a pathogen that needs to be disposed by the body. Other white blood cells move in and destroy the bone. These lesions can be seen on x-rays and cause bone pain.
Bone Pain
Symptoms of MM include fatigue, weight loss, urinary problems and bone pain. Bone pain can be managed with pain medication. As MM is treated, the bones are also given time to heal. Medications to replenish the bone tissue can also be given. These medications also prevent further bone loss. As the bone tissue is replenished and healed, bone pain should subside.
Other Symptoms
The combination of the excessive antibodies in the blood and the loss of calcium from the bones leads to kidney problems. The uncontrolled multiplication of plasma cells in the bone marrow leads to a decrease in the production of red blood cells, which leads to anemia. Also, because the plasma cells and the antibodies are abnormal, people with MM are subject to opportunistic infections that otherwise healthy individuals are less likely to get.
Prognosis
Multiple myeloma is incurable, but advances in treatment are made all the time. With proper pain control and treatment of MM, patients may lead normal lives. Survival after diagnosis depends on many factors, including when the diagnosis was made in the course of the disease, and the type and quality of treatment. Following treatment guidelines and staying otherwise healthy are key steps to a good prognosis.
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