Multiple myeloma is a blood-related cancer affecting the plasma cells. Sufferers of multiple myeloma experience bone pain, fatigue, kidney problems and repeated infections. A number of treatments are available to lengthen life and improve quality-of-life. These treatments vary according to the stage of the cancer and the patient's personal wishes and overall health.
Observation
The American Cancer Society explains that early multiple myeloma is often treated with observation only. The patient's bloodwork and overall health status is monitored closely. This approach avoids exposing the patient to the side effects of chemotherapy earlier than necessary.
Chemotherapy and Related Drugs
While technically all medications are chemotherapy, the word is often reserved for describing cancer drugs. Commonly used medications for multiple myeloma include doxorubicin, thalidomide, bortezomib, lenalidomide and dexamethasone. These may be used alone or in combination. Another treatment option is melphalan with prednisone. Chemotherapy is usually given in cycles and may be administered by mouth or into the vein. The goal of chemotherapy is to control the cancer. Some treatments also stimulate the immune system.
Radiation
Radiation therapy can be utilized to destroy areas of clumped myeloma cells. It involves sending a precisely directed x-ray beam to one particular area. This is often used in the area of a fracture or where bone pain is severe. Radiation is often used for short treatments and given several times a week for 2 or more weeks at a time. Radiation may be used in conjunction with chemotherapy.
Stem Cell or Bone Marrow Transplant
Two types of stem cell and bone marrow transplants are potentially available to multiple myeloma patients. The first one involves removing some of their own stem cells or bone marrow, then treating them with high dose chemotherapy or full-body radiation in an attempt to eradicate the cancer. The stem cells or bone marrow is then replaced in the body to grow and develop. If the myeloma remains present, the process may be repeated when the patient has sufficiently recovered from the first procedure.
The second type of transplant involves the patient being treated with high-dose chemotherapy, then receiving a stem cell or bone marrow transplant from a donor. The American Cancer Society explains that this type of stem cell transplant is very hard on the body and is often reserved for younger patients in relatively good health.
Bone Loss Treatment
Mayo Clinic explains that drugs such as zoledronic acid or pamidronate may be utilized to prevent bone loss. While not treating the myeloma directly, it may help prevent fractures and resultant pain. Other medications may be prescribed for the pain, anemia and infections associated with multiple myeloma. Dialysis may be needed if the kidneys are severely damaged by the harmful proteins created by the myeloma cells.
References
- Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation: Living With Multiple Myeloma: Treatment Options
- American Cancer Society: Multiple Myeloma: Treatment Options
- Mayo Clinic: Multiple Myeloma: Treatment and Drugs
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Multiple Myeloma: Treatment
- American Cancer Society: Multiple Myeloma: Radiation Therapy
