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Multiple Myeloma
Medical Questions » Multiple Myeloma
| Name: Multiple Myeloma |
| Also known as: Myelomatosis |
| A cancer of the cells in the bone marrow of the elderly that causes destruction of the marrow and damage to the surrounding bone. |
Causes of Multiple Myeloma
Unknown. |
Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma
Bone pain (back, ribs and thighs are the most common sites), tiredness from anemia, and recurrent infections because of reduced immunity. Further symptoms include fractures of weakened bones, and kidney and heart failure caused by the toxic by-products of the marrow and bone destruction. |
Tests for Multiple Myeloma
Because bone is being destroyed by the marrow cancer, calcium is released, and very high levels of calcium are found on blood tests. Diagnosis can be confirmed by specific tests on the blood and a biopsy of bone marrow. X-rays show a ' moth-eaten' appearance of the bone in areas where it has been eaten away, particularly in the skull, ribs and long bones of the arms and legs. |
Treatment for Multiple Myeloma
No cure. Potent cytotoxic drugs and radiotherapy are used to reduce the symptoms and prolong life.
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Complications of Multiple Myeloma of its treatment
Blood becomes excessively thick and viscous, which this leads to a wide range of other symptoms including dizziness, vomiting, bleeding gums, mental changes and partial blindness. |
Likely Outcome of Multiple Myeloma
Patients survive for one to four years after diagnosis, depending upon their age, the aggressiveness of the cancer, and their general health. |
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