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Myeloma
Myeloma
Myeloma is a rare type of blood cancer that develops in plasma cells due to the uncontrolled multiplication of abnormal plasma cells. This results in the production of abnormal proteins that damage the kidneys, bones, and the body’s immune system. It may cause bone pain, anaemia, kidney dysfunction, and increase the risk of infections. Manipal Hospitals provides multidisciplinary and comprehensive care to control the disease and manage its complications.
Treatments Available at
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Old Airport Road - Bengaluru
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Whitefield - Bengaluru
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Request a CallbackSymptoms of Myeloma
Symptoms include bone pain (particularly in the spine or ribs), fatigue, weakness, frequent infections, unexpected weight loss, increased thirst, and frequent urination. Some patients may also experience bone fractures and symptoms of anaemia.
How We Diagnose Myeloma
For a myeloma diagnosis, doctors may recommend blood and urine tests to detect abnormal proteins produced by myeloma cells. A bone marrow examination is performed to confirm the presence of abnormal plasma cells. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, or PET scans may be performed to identify bone damage. They also help evaluate the extent of the disease.
Treatment Options
Myeloma treatment usually depends on the disease stage and the patient’s overall health. Treatment may include targeted therapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, corticosteroids, and stem cell transplantation. These treatments aim to control cancer growth and manage symptoms and complications.
What to Expect
Myeloma treatment at Manipal Hospitals is initiated after a detailed evaluation by a haematologist or oncologist experienced in blood cancers. Treatment decisions are based on the patient's age, disease stage, and general health. It also depends on any complications such as bone lesions, anaemia, or kidney failure.
Initial treatment to reduce the number of abnormal plasma cells may include targeted therapy, immunomodulatory drugs, steroids, and/or chemotherapy. For suitable candidates, high-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplant may be recommended.
Supportive care is crucial in the treatment of myeloma. Patients may receive medication to strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures. Treatment may also involve managing anaemia, preventing infections, and monitoring kidney function. Pain management and regular blood tests are also important aspects of patient care.
Patients require ongoing regular follow-up with blood and urine tests to check treatment response and detect disease progression. Myeloma is considered a chronic illness, but modern treatments can help control the disease. Proper monitoring, medications, and supportive care can help patients to stabilise the disease and maintain a better quality of life.
Consult our Experts
FAQs
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What are the causes of myeloma?
Myeloma causes are not fully understood, but the disease occurs when genetic alterations develop in the plasma cells in the bone marrow. These abnormal cells multiply uncontrollably and produce abnormal proteins, damaging bones, kidneys, and the body's immune system.
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Who is at higher risk of developing myeloma?
The risk of myeloma increases with the patient's age and is commonly seen in older adults. Other risk factors may include a family history of the disease, obesity, environmental factors, and certain plasma cell disorders.
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Are myeloma and multiple myeloma the same condition?
Yes, myeloma and multiple myeloma refer to the same disease and can be used interchangeably. The term "multiple" in multiple myeloma means that the cancer often affects multiple locations in the body. The cancer develops in plasma cells found in the bone marrow.
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Is it possible to cure myeloma?
Myeloma is generally considered to be a chronic condition rather than a curable disease. However, with modern treatments, it is possible to control the disease effectively. It also reduces symptoms and helps patients live longer with improved quality of life.
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How is myeloma monitored after treatment?
After myeloma treatment, patients require regular follow-up with blood tests, urine tests, and sometimes imaging studies. These tests help monitor abnormal protein levels and detect disease recurrence or progression. Ongoing monitoring is useful for the doctors to adjust treatment whenever necessary.
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