Myeloma

What is Multiple Myeloma?

B cells are immune cells that defend the body against infection. When activated, B cells can become plasma cells, which live in the bone marrow and produce antibodies designed to fight specific invaders. Multiple myeloma occurs when plasma cells become cancerous and multiply uncontrollably. These abnormal plasma cells may form collections called plasmacytomas, which most often develop in bone tissue but may, in rare cases, appear in other areas of the body. A single tumor is called a solitary plasmacytoma, while more than one tumor indicates multiple myeloma.

Signs and Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma

The following may be signs of multiple myeloma but can also be associated with other illnesses:

• Back pain
• Bone pain or fractures
• Confusion
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Frequent infections
• Frequent urination
• Impaired kidney function
• Increased thirst
• Loss of appetite
• Weakness

It is important to share these symptoms with your doctor so he or she may determine their cause and recommend treatment if necessary.

How Is Multiple Myeloma Detected?

Our specialists gather a complete medical, surgical, social, and family history, perform laboratory testing, and review imaging studies to provide personalized care. Testing may include:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Evaluates levels of different blood cell types to detect abnormalities.
• Flow cytometry: An advanced method of analyzing blood cells for abnormal characteristics.
• Bone marrow biopsy: Removal of a small marrow sample to confirm the presence of abnormal plasma cells.
• Imaging studies (CT scan, PET scan, PET-CT scan, or X-ray): Used to determine whether plasmacytomas or myeloma are present in bones or other tissues.

What Causes Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma develops due to genetic changes in plasma cells that allow them to grow uncontrollably. The exact cause is not fully understood, but several risk factors are linked to an increased likelihood of developing the disease:

• Aging
• Male gender
• Family history of multiple myeloma
• Personal history of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS)
• Obesity
• Exposure to radiation
• Exposure to certain chemicals, such as pesticides or industrial solvents

Stages of Multiple Myeloma

Stage I

• Low levels of beta-2 microglobulin in the blood

• Normal albumin levels

• No high-risk genetic abnormalities or elevated LDH (lactate dehydrogenase)

Stage II

• Findings are between stage I and stage III criteria

• Patients may have moderate changes in blood markers but not the high-risk features of stage III

Stage III

• High levels of beta-2 microglobulin

• Often accompanied by abnormal albumin or LDH levels

• May include high-risk genetic abnormalities

How Is Multiple Myeloma Treated?

Treatment depends on the extent of disease involvement and may include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, stem cell transplant, radiation therapy, and/or surgery. These treatments may be used individually or in combination depending on your doctor’s recommendations. Important factors to consider when deciding on a treatment plan include:

• Your age, health, and lifestyle
• The extent of your multiple myeloma
• Any other serious health conditions you have
• Your feelings about the need to treat the multiple myeloma right away
• Your doctor’s opinion about whether treatment should begin immediately
• The likelihood that treatment will help fight your multiple myeloma
• Possible side effects of each treatment method

You may feel pressure to make a quick decision, but it is important to ask questions and fully understand your options. You and your doctor should work together to balance the benefits and risks of each treatment and select the approach that is best for you.

Our Approach

We understand that a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and frightening. At New York Cancer & Blood Specialists, we build our care teams around you. Our expert oncologists will guide you through every step of the process, answer your questions, and tailor your treatment to your needs. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms that may be related to multiple myeloma, please call us at (855) 528-7322 or make an appointment online.