Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer affecting a specific kind of white blood cell known as plasma cells, also referred to as myeloma cells. These cancerous cells can develop into either a solitary mass called a plasmacytoma or multiple tumors. Plasma cells are crucial components of the immune system, responsible for producing antibodies. In cases of myeloma, there is an overproduction of identical plasma cells, leading to an excess of a single antibody type. As the number of myeloma cells grows, they harm and weaken bones, often resulting in pain and fractures. This bone damage releases excessive calcium into the bloodstream, causing symptoms such as reduced appetite, nausea, increased thirst, fatigue, muscle weakness, restlessness, and confusion. Additionally, myeloma cells interfere with the bone marrow's ability to produce normal plasma cells and other essential white blood cells, compromising the patient's immune system and ability to combat infections. These cells may also hinder the production of new blood cells in the marrow, leading to anemia. The excess of antibody proteins and calcium can impair kidney function, preventing them from effectively filtering and purifying the blood. Treatments primarily include chemotherapy and bone marrow transplantation. This condition is also referred to simply as myeloma or plasma cell myeloma.
