Multiple Myeloma Explained
Multiple myeloma is a rare form of blood cancer that affects the bone marrow, where the body makes blood cells. It develops in the plasma cells, a type of white blood cell that makes the antibodies that protect your body from infection, leading to a weakened immunity system. It can also cause anemia as it can impact the development and viability of red blood cells. Detection is done through blood, urine and blood marrow tests. Imaging tests, such as X-ray, MRI or CT scan, can show irregularities in the bone, as well. Multiple myeloma can spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones and kidneys.
Multiple Myeloma Treatment Options
If multiple myeloma is detected in the absence of symptoms, treatment may not be needed right away. When symptoms do appear, treatment usually begins with medication through targeted therapy. Other treatments include immunotherapy, chemotherapy, CAR-T cell therapy and corticosteroids.
The Different Types of Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma is usually categorized as smoldering or active. People with smoldering multiple myeloma show no signs or symptoms of the disease, and treatment is usually unnecessary until symptoms become apparent. Active multiple myeloma occurs when symptoms are present, and treatment is needed.
The different types of multiple myeloma are based on the protein (immunoglobulin) produced by the cancerous cells. Plasma cells, the blood-generating cells in the bone marrow, create both heavy chain and light chain proteins, both of which are needed to create healthy blood cells. The myeloma cancer cells invade the plasma cells and take over the protein generation, causing:
Heavy chain myeloma
Where multiple myeloma causes the blood-generating cells in the bone marrow to create only heavy chain proteins.
Light chain myeloma
Where only light chain proteins are created in the plasma.
Other rare forms
Solitary plasmacytoma, multiple solitary plasmacytoma and extramedullary myeloma are other more uncommon types of multiple myeloma.
