Myeloma bone disease, also called multiple myeloma, is a disease that occurs when the body makes too many plasma cells. Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that develops in the bone marrow; when there is a proliferation of these cells, there is not enough room in the bone marrow for red blood cells and platelets.
Significance
The National Cancer Institute estimates that in 2010, slightly more than 20,000 individuals will be newly diagnosed with multiple myeloma in the United States, and 10,650 individuals will die from the disease. The majority of cases are diagnosed in individuals over 60 years of age, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Risk Factors and Causes
A definitive cause of multiple myeloma is not known, but there are several known risk factors, as listed by the American Cancer Society. These risk factors include advanced age, being male, having been exposed to radiation, family history of the disease, being African-American and being obese. Having one or more risk factors does not mean a person will definitely develop the disease; it simply means the individual may be at a higher risk of developing myeloma than someone who does not have any risk factors.
Symptoms
According to the University of Maryland, the symptoms of multiple myeloma may vary among individuals, but common symptoms are bone pain, bone fractures, nausea or vomiting, constipation, weight loss, leg numbness or weakness and frequent infections. These symptoms can be indicative of other medical problems, so an appropriate diagnosis of the disease is necessary.
Diagnosis
A multiple myeloma diagnosis is made after a variety of tests. A physical exam is performed, possibly along with a bone marrow aspiration or biopsy to remove bone tissue and blood for further testing. The National Cancer Institute lists tests that may be ordered, including X-rays, a CT scan, a complete blood count, a 24-hour urine test and blood or urine immunoglobulin tests, which check for certain antibodies.
Treatment
Treatment for multiple myeloma can vary, depending on the extent of the cancer, the patient's overall health and patient preference. According to the National Cancer Institute, there are ten standard treatments for multiple myeloma. Chemotherapy, targeted therapies and other drugs, high-dose chemotherapy and stem-cell transplant and biologic therapies are examples of drug-related therapies. Radiation therapy, surgery and plasmapheresis are also treatment options, and watchful waiting may be an option for some individuals. Supportive care is given to patients to control symptoms and pain.
Survival
The American Cancer Society describes multiple myeloma as having three stages based on the International Staging System. The stages are based on the spread and extent of the disease. For stage I, the American Cancer Society estimates the median survival at 62 months; for stage II, the median survival rate is 44 months; and stage III carries a median survival time of 29 months.
