Multiple Myeloma: Symptoms and Causes

The abnormal proliferation of cells in a tissue or organ leads to cancer diseases. Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that arises from the proliferation of healthy plasma cells, which become cells that produce abnormal antibodies. Like any cancer, multiple myeloma can result in dysfunction or loss of function in many organs. Ultimately, it can cause damage to the bones and kidneys. Additionally, medical issues may arise that affect the body’s ability to produce healthy white blood cells, red blood cells, or platelets. Although multiple myeloma is not a disease that can be directly cured, it is possible to manage the symptoms caused by the disease. Therefore, treatment after early diagnosis focuses on controlling the symptoms. With early diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to extend the patient's lifespan and improve their quality of life.

What is Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma is one of the rare types of blood cancer that affects plasma cells. White blood cells that produce antibodies are called plasma cells. Plasma cells, which are important components of the immune system, can also be referred to as "B cells." Antibodies produced by B cells, known as immunoglobulins, help the body fight infections. In patients with multiple myeloma, the proliferation of healthy cells leads to the production of abnormal antibodies called M proteins, which is defined as the abnormality of plasma cells. Multiple myeloma thus prevents the body from producing healthy red and white blood cells. This condition results in the deterioration of the structure of bones and kidneys, leading to a series of medical problems. In some patients, a different type of multiple myeloma may be observed without symptoms. In such cases, instead of starting treatment, the progression of the disease is monitored. The goal is to start treatment under the best conditions to minimize the disease's effects.

Who is Affected by Multiple Myeloma?

Research has shown that multiple myeloma affects men at a higher rate than women. Additionally, Black individuals are affected by the disease at twice the rate of individuals from other races. The diagnosis of the disease is most often made between the ages of 40 and 70. A family history of multiple myeloma is one of the factors that increases the risk of developing the disease, as genetic predisposition affects the likelihood of its occurrence. However, the exact cause of the disease is not fully understood. Genetic mutations are believed to play a role in the development of multiple myeloma, as studies have found that many affected individuals lack certain pieces of a specific chromosome.

Some environmental factors may facilitate the emergence of multiple myeloma. For instance, exposure to pesticides, certain fertilizers, radiation, and chemicals can increase the risk of the disease. Conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis also increase the risk. Additionally, individuals with obesity and high body fat are among the at-risk groups. Therefore, protecting against environmental factors and maintaining individual health through precautions can contribute to reducing the risk of the disease. Avoiding chemicals and paying attention to body mass index can prevent many diseases, including reducing the risk of multiple myeloma.

How Does Multiple Myeloma Affect the Body?

Like other types of cancer, multiple myeloma is a serious illness. However, not all patients are affected by the disease in the same way. In particular, some patients may not require any treatment in the early stages of the disease. Regular check-ups and tests are often sufficient at this stage. The doctor organizes the most suitable monitoring program, and tests are continued according to this schedule. However, the average life expectancy from the onset of the disease is about 10 years. This value is an average and may vary depending on the patient's condition. Therefore, the most reliable person to consult for information on the subject is the doctor providing treatment. It is advisable to consult the treating physician to learn how the disease may affect the body and what can be done to obtain accurate information.

What are the Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma exhibits various symptoms depending on the patient's condition and the progression of the disease. However, the first symptom that often arises and is noticed by patients is bone pain. Other possible complaints can be listed as follows:

• Weakness and numbness in the arms and legs.
• Compression of the spine and spinal cord pressure due to the disease affecting the vertebrae.
• Constant fatigue, difficulty in performing daily activities, and a feeling of weakness (these are also among the symptoms of anemia developed due to the disease).
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Loss of appetite and increased thirst (these symptoms may also indicate hypercalcemia associated with the disease).
• Weight loss despite no effort to lose weight.
• Unexplained and sudden onset of fever (fever may also indicate a secondary bacterial infection).
• Increased tendency to bruise or bleed easily, resulting from abnormal plasma cells preventing the body from producing adequate platelets.
• Confusion, mental fog, and indecisiveness.

The progression of these symptoms may not be the same for every patient. However, the most common symptom observed in patients is persistent bone pain in the back, ribs, or hips. The cause of this pain is the weakening of the bones. This weakness makes the bones more sensitive, which can lead to fractures. One significant difference between multiple myeloma and other cancers is that it does not form any lumps in the body. Instead, it leads to the progressive weakening of the bones, preventing healthy blood cell production in the bone marrow. Another possible complication of multiple myeloma is kidney damage. Multiple myeloma can cause nephropathy in the kidneys, which may bring about symptoms such as fatigue, nausea and vomiting, edema, loss of appetite, and urinary disturbances.

What Are the Treatments for Multiple Myeloma?

Among the most commonly used diagnostic methods for diagnosing multiple myeloma are blood tests and medical imaging studies. These investigations can provide more detailed insights into the stage of the disease and the potential symptoms that may develop. Urinalysis is also one of the tests performed. Computed tomography (CT) shows bone damage, while MRI helps determine the condition of the bones and vertebrae. A definitive diagnosis is made through a bone marrow biopsy to assess the status of normal and abnormal plasma cells, thus diagnosing the disease and evaluating the condition of the cancer. After the diagnosis, a treatment plan is prepared based on the level of progression and the condition of the symptoms. Some of the preferred treatments during the treatment process include:

• Multiple myeloma diagnosed at an early stage without any symptoms can be monitored by doctors in the oncology unit without intervention. In this process, certain tests are regularly performed to monitor the progression of the disease. If symptoms appear, treatment is initiated.
• Multiple myeloma that has progressed to a certain stage can cause intense pain. Therefore, pain relief medications may be prescribed to patients.
• Due to the weakening of the immune system, the patient's body will become susceptible to infections. Occasionally, antibiotic treatment may be necessary for the body to fight these infections.
• Steroid treatment may be applied to reduce inflammation in the body and eliminate cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy is generally administered to reduce the number of abnormal plasma cells.
• Immunotherapy may be applied to activate the immune system and enable it to combat cancer cells.
• Similar to other cancer treatments, radiation therapy may be necessary to kill cancer cells and reduce bone tumors.
• Bone marrow or stem cell transplantation may be performed to assist in the production of healthy new plasma cells in the bone marrow or blood. However, a suitable donor must be found for bone marrow transplantation.

If you are experiencing persistent bone pain and suspect other symptoms, you should seek medical attention without delay. This way, you can benefit from early diagnosis and treatment services against the possibility of multiple myeloma and potentially alter the course of the disease.