Myeloma is a type of cancer that affects plasma cells; a type of white blood cell found in the body. Plasma cells are located in the bone marrow, a soft, spongy tissue in the center of bones, and produce antibodies that help the body fight infections. In myeloma, cells divide and multiply in an uncontrolled manner, building up in the bone marrow, crowding out and impairing the production of normal, functioning blood cells.
Myeloma can take two forms: Non-Hodgkin's myeloma, which is the most common, and Hodgkin's myeloma, which is more rare. Some of the symptoms of myeloma include anemia, fatigue, bone pain, and weight loss. Additional symptoms can include night sweats, fever, infections, and fragile bones that break easily.
Myeloma is typically diagnosed with a physical exam, blood tests, and a bone marrow biopsy, a procedure where a small amount of bone marrow is removed and tested for myeloma cells. These cells can then be analyzed to determine the type and severity of the disease. Once diagnosed, the course of treatment is determined by the stage of the disease, overall health, and other factors.
Treatment for myeloma can include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, medications, stem cell transplants, or a combination of the above treatments. Chemotherapy, for example, uses drugs to kill the myeloma cells, while radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to damage and destroy tumors. In some cases, surgery may be used to remove any tumors if they can be identified. Additionally, if symptoms become severe, supportive care may be necessary, such as transfusions and antibiotics to help fight infections.
The goal of treatment is to reduce the symptoms and slow the progression of the myeloma. However, there is no cure for myeloma. In addition to conventional treatments, there are also newer treatments that are emerging, such as immunotherapy and CAR-T cell therapy, that use the body's own immune system to fight cancer cells.
Myeloma can be a difficult and scary diagnosis, but with proper medical care and support, it is possible to live a full and healthy life. It is important to talk with your doctor to discuss your specific case and determine the best treatment plan for you.