What is Myeloma? | Cancer Research UK 2021

Summary

Multiple myeloma is a blood cancer that originates from abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow. These cells produce faulty antibodies, called paraproteins, which impair the immune system and lead to increased infections. Myeloma can also cause anemia, bone damage, high calcium levels, and kidney problems. The disease is called 'multiple' myeloma because it can affect multiple areas of the body. Early symptoms include fatigue, dizziness, pain, and confusion. Understanding these signs is key to planning the best treatment for patients.

Takeaways

• 😀 Myeloma is a type of blood cancer that develops from plasma cells in the bone marrow.
• 😀 Bone marrow is the spongy tissue inside large bones that produces different types of blood cells.
• 😀 Blood cells start as stem cells and develop into red cells, white cells, and platelets.
• 😀 B lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that develop into plasma cells, which are important for the immune system.
• 😀 Normal plasma cells produce antibodies (immunoglobulins) to fight infections.
• 😀 Myeloma occurs when plasma cells in the bone marrow become abnormal and start producing defective antibodies called paraproteins.
• 😀 The abnormal paraproteins cannot fight infections, weakening the immune system.
• 😀 Myeloma leads to anemia, reducing red blood cells and causing tiredness and breathlessness.
• 😀 Myeloma cells crowd the bone marrow, reducing space for other blood cells.
• 😀 Myeloma can damage bones, leading to pain and the release of calcium into the bloodstream, which can cause high calcium levels.
• 😀 High calcium levels from myeloma can lead to symptoms like thirst, constipation, and confusion.
• 😀 Myeloma can also damage the kidneys, impacting overall health and function.
• 😀 The disease is called multiple myeloma because it can affect multiple areas in the body.
• 😀 Information about symptoms helps specialists determine the best treatment options for myeloma.

Q & A

What is myeloma?

Myeloma is a type of blood cancer that develops from abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow, which affects the production of normal blood cells.

Where does myeloma develop in the body?

Myeloma develops in the bone marrow, the spongy tissue found inside the bones that is responsible for producing blood cells.

What is the role of plasma cells in the immune system?

Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that produce antibodies (immunoglobulins) to help the body fight infections.

What happens when plasma cells become abnormal in myeloma?

In myeloma, plasma cells become abnormal and start dividing uncontrollably, forming myeloma cells that produce ineffective antibodies called paraproteins or monoclonal proteins.

How does myeloma affect the immune system?

Myeloma reduces the number of normal plasma cells, leading to a decrease in functional antibodies. This weakens the immune system and increases the risk of infections.

What are paraproteins, and why are they problematic in myeloma?

Paraproteins are abnormal antibodies produced by myeloma cells. These paraproteins do not work properly and can cause various health issues, including thickening the blood.

What are the symptoms of thickened blood in myeloma?

Thickened blood in myeloma can lead to symptoms like dizziness and headaches.

How does myeloma cause anemia?

Myeloma cells crowd the bone marrow, leaving less room for red blood cells, which carry oxygen. This leads to a decrease in red blood cells and causes anemia, resulting in fatigue and breathlessness.

Why is myeloma called 'multiple myeloma'?

It is called 'multiple myeloma' because the disease can affect multiple areas of the body, including the bones, blood, and organs like the kidneys.

What complications can arise from myeloma affecting bones?

Myeloma cells can damage and weaken bones, causing pain. This can also release calcium into the bloodstream, leading to high calcium levels, which may cause symptoms such as excessive thirst, constipation, or confusion.

How can myeloma damage the kidneys?

Myeloma cells can accumulate and damage the kidneys, which may impair their function, leading to kidney-related complications.