Blood, immune & lymphCancerICD-10 C90
Multiple myeloma
Also called: Myeloma
A cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow that damages bones, kidneys and blood counts. Treatment has advanced rapidly.
Condition-specific references are below. Individual claims and this page have not been clinically reviewed. Read about this content.
Causes
- Malignant plasma cell clone, usually preceded by MGUS
Risk factors
- Age over 60
- Black ancestry
- MGUS
- Family history
Symptoms
- Bone pain (back, ribs)
- Fractures
- Fatigue from anaemia
- Kidney problems
- Infections
- High calcium: thirst, confusion
Diagnosis — tests and examinations
- Serum and urine protein electrophoresis, free light chains
- Bone marrow biopsy
- Whole-body low-dose CT or MRI
Treatment
Medicines and medical treatment
- Combinations of proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulators, anti-CD38 antibodies and steroids
- CAR-T and bispecific antibodies
- Bisphosphonates for bone
Operations and procedures
- Autologous stem cell transplant
- Radiotherapy for painful lesions
Self-care, home remedies and lifestyle
- Hydration to protect kidneys
Possible complications
- Fractures, spinal cord compression
- Kidney failure
- Infections
Prevention
- None
Outlook
Not usually curable, but many live well for 10+ years.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for persistent bone pain with fatigue in older adults.
Sources and further reading
These sources cover this condition. They have not been checked against every statement on this page.
Related conditions
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