Myeloma

Myeloma, also known as Multiple Myeloma, is a type of Blood Cancer that originates in the plasma cells found in bone marrow.

Each year in the UK, around 6,200 people are diagnosed with Myeloma, a Cancer that affects bone marrow cells called plasma cells.  Over 33,000 people live with Myeloma in the UK. It makes up 15% of Blood Cancers and 2% of all Cancers. Mostly affecting those over 65, it can also occur in younger people.

Plasma cells are made in the bone marrow, the spongy material in larger bones. These cells are part of the immune system and produce antibodies to fight infections. Myeloma develops when DNA in a plasma cell is damaged, causing abnormal cells to multiply and spread in the bone marrow.

Myeloma doesn’t form lumps that can be felt or seen on x rays and scans, but affects areas where bone marrow is active, like the spine, skull, pelvis, rib cage, arms, legs, shoulders, and hips.

Symptoms

Common symptoms are bone pain, recurring infections, kidney damage, and fatigue. Other complications include:

• Pain (often in lower back).
• Bone disease including bones breaking easily.
• Fatigue (an overwhelming tiredness, often due to low iron).
• Recurring infections such as Pneumonia (due to weakened immune system).
• Kidney damage.
• Peripheral Neuropathy (pins and needles, numbness, unusual sensations in hands and feet).

Diagnosis

Early detection is vital for managing the disease effectively. Diagnosis can be tricky as Myeloma is uncommon and often has few early symptoms. A GP will check for signs like bleeding, infections, and bone tenderness. Blood and urine tests may be needed to detect antibodies and proteins.

Treatment

While Myeloma is currently incurable, there are several treatment options available that can help control the disease, alleviate symptoms, and prolong life. Treatments may include:

1. Chemotherapy
2. Stem cell transplants
3. Targeted therapies

The goal is to achieve periods of remission where the disease is inactive and does not cause symptoms

Risk Factors

The exact cause of Myeloma is not fully understood. However, it starts with abnormal plasma cell production in the bone marrow. These abnormal cells multiply rapidly and produce large amounts of a single type of antibody known as paraprotein, which does not function properly. Few cases of multiple Myeloma are linked to avoidable risk factors. Research says risk factors include:

• Family history- the condition runs in families.
• Genetic Mutations: Changes in the DNA of plasma cells can lead to their abnormal growth.
• Monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance (MGUS) in which a person has abnormal plasma cells in their bone marrow, which produce an abnormal protein. There are often no symptoms of MGUS. However, the condition can sometimes transform into Multiple Myeloma. It progresses into the Cancer at a level of 1% per year.  MGUS is present in about 3% of people over 50 years old.
• Gender (more common in males. Experts do not know why.)
• Age – More common in older but can, on occasion, develop earlier. Half of those diagnosed are over 65 years but it is also considered the second highest Cancer in adults under 50 years.
• Ethnicity (more common in African Americans). It affects twice as many people who are Black compared to those of other races.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain chemicals, radiation, and viruses may increase the risk.
• Overweight and obesity: Excess body weight or obesity has been linked to a higher risk of developing Myeloma.
• Radiation exposure: Exposure to certain types of radiation, such as ionizing radiation, can increase the risk of Myeloma.
• Lowered immunity (due to HIV or immunosuppressants) – Those that have a reduced immunity are at higher risk of developing Myeloma. This can include due to infection from AIDS or HIV or due to immunosuppressant medication.

What to do next?

First, see your GP and discuss health issues, family history, medical conditions and symptoms.

Referral to a Specialist – this may be an urgent, two-week referral though does not automatically mean a person has Cancer.

Living with Myeloma

Living with Myeloma can be challenging, but support is available. Myeloma UK provides a wealth of resources, including patient information booklets, support groups, and an Infoline. These resources are designed to help patients, and their families navigate the complexities of the disease and improve their quality of life.

Research and Hope

At Myeloma UK, they are committed to funding research that aims to understand the development, detection, and treatment of Myeloma.

Their goal is to find new ways to manage the disease and ultimately discover a cure. Together, we can make a difference and offer hope to those affected by Myeloma.

Get Involved

There are many ways to support Myeloma UK, from fundraising to volunteering. Every contribution helps them move closer to a future where Myeloma is a manageable condition with effective treatments and, one day, a cure.

More information

What is myeloma? – Myeloma UK

Multiple myeloma – NHS

https://youtu.be/Xwnga-R2Fr8 – MYELOMA MADE SIMPLE | What Is Multiple Myeloma?