Multiple Myeloma

What is multiple myeloma?

Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that begins in the bone marrow and represents a cancer of the plasma cell, a particular type of blood cell. It is not a very common cancer; approximately 20,000 people are diagnosed with multiple myeloma each year in the United States (Source: LLS).

Some myelomas, called smoldering myelomas, do not have symptoms and may not need immediate treatment. If treatment is delayed, careful follow-up is important so that treatment can be started as soon as significant progression or symptoms become apparent. While multiple myeloma is not curable, treatment can often control disease progression and symptoms.

Multiple myeloma can interfere with production of new blood cells in the bone marrow, which can result in anemia, increased risk of infection, and easy bruising and bleeding. It also produces a substance that weakens bones and abnormal proteins that can cause kidney damage and other problems.

The cause of multiple myeloma is not known, but it is most common in people over the age of 50 and in African Americans.

Because multiple myeloma can decrease production of new blood cells, people who have it can have problems with bleeding and serious infections. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have uncontrolled bleeding, severe sweating, severe difficulty breathing, pale or blue lips, fast heart rate, confusion, or loss or change in level of consciousness.

Seek prompt medical care if you have experienced unexpected weight loss, persistent fever, frequent infections, night sweats, tiredness, or bone pain.