Multiple Myeloma - Symptoms & Causes

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What is multiple myeloma?

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that originates in the plasma cells, a kind of white blood cell found in the bone marrow. Plasma cells are crucial for the immune system as they produce antibodies that help fight infections. In multiple myeloma, these cells proliferate uncontrollably and accumulate in the bone marrow, leading to various health issues.

Types of multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma can be classified into several types, based on the type of immunoglobulin produced by the cancer cells:

IgG myeloma, the most common form, accounting for about 60% of cases
IgA myeloma, the second most common, comprising about 20% of cases
Light chain myeloma, the third most common, only light chains of antibodies are produced
IgD, IgE, and IgM myeloma, which are much rarer
Non-secretory myeloma, where no immunoglobulin is produced

What are the symptoms of multiple myeloma?

Symptoms of multiple myeloma may vary widely but typically include:

Bone pain, especially in the back or chest
Frequent infections due to weakened immune response
Anaemia leading to fatigue and weakness
Kidney dysfunction
Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels), causing excessive thirst, nausea, and confusion
Weight loss and reduced appetite

What causes multiple myeloma?

The exact cause of multiple myeloma is not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified:

Age (most common in people over 60)
Male gender
Family history of the disease
Obesity
Exposure to certain chemicals or radiation

How does multiple myeloma form?

Multiple myeloma begins with a genetic mutation in a single plasma cell. This mutation allows the cell to multiply rapidly and resist normal cell death processes. Over time, these malignant plasma cells crowd out healthy cells in the bone marrow, leading to the symptoms and complications associated with the disease.

Complications of multiple myeloma can be severe and include:

Bone damage and fractures
Increased susceptibility to bacterial infections
Reduced kidney function or kidney failure
Anaemia and other blood disorders
Hypercalcemia, which can affect heart and kidney function

Related conditions include:

Amyloidosis, where abnormal protein builds up in organs
Light chain deposition disease, affecting kidneys, heart, or liver

How do you prevent multiple myeloma?

There are no established methods for preventing multiple myeloma due to its unclear causes. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding exposure to toxic chemicals, and managing risk factors such as obesity may help reduce the risk.