Multiple myeloma, or “MM,” is a cancer of the “plasma cells.” Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell. White blood cells fight infections in the body. They are made in the center of the bones, in a part called the bone marrow.
When a person has MM, their bone marrow makes too many plasma cells and not enough of the normal blood cells the body needs. This can lead to problems, including:
MM can cause different symptoms. Many of these are related to the problems that can happen when the body makes too many plasma cells.
Symptoms can include:
All of these symptoms can also be caused by conditions that are not MM. But if you have these symptoms, let your HEMATOLOGIST know.
Sometimes, symptoms of MM can be a medical emergency. For example, it is an emergency if MM cells or pieces of broken bone push down on the spinal cord. The spinal cord is the group of nerves that runs down a person's back. See a doctor immediately if you have:
Yes. Your HEMATOLOGIST will do an exam and tests. Tests can include:
People with MM often have 1 or more of the following treatments:
Antibodies are proteins in your blood. Your immune system makes them to help your body fight infections. But there are other types of antibodies that are created in a lab and used as medicine. They kill cancer cells by targeting specific parts of the cells.
People with MM also get medicines to strengthen their bones.
People with MM also get treatment for any symptoms they have. For example, doctors might treat bone symptoms with pain medicines and medicines to stop bone loss.
After treatment, you will be checked every so often to see if the cancer comes back. Treatment does not usually cure the disease, but it can reduce symptoms and help people live longer. Follow-up tests can include blood tests, urine tests, imaging tests, or bone marrow biopsy.
If the MM comes back, your doctor might recommend trying a different treatment.
People with MM can get sick from infections more easily than normal. Because of this, it’s important to wash your hands often and stay away from people who are sick. Tell your doctor or nurse right away if you get a fever.
Follow all of your HEMATOLOGIST instructions about visits and tests. It’s also important to talk to your doctor about any side effects or problems you have during treatment.
Getting treated for MM involves making many choices, such as what treatment to have and when. Always let your doctorS know how you feel about a treatment. Any time you are offered a treatment, ask:
To know more consult Dr Suraj Chiraniya and Team .
Call 9594600190