Multiple Myeloma: Treatment Approach, Ongoing Care, and Outlook
Navigate To:
What is Multiple Myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell involved in producing antibodies. Unlike some blood cancers, myeloma is usually considered a chronic condition, meaning it is managed over time rather than cured outright.
Advances in treatment have significantly improved survival and quality of life for people living with myeloma.
How Multiple Myeloma Affects the Body
Abnormal plasma cells build up in the bone marrow and interfere with normal blood cell production. They also release substances that affect bones and kidneys.
Common effects include:
- Bone pain or fractures due to weakening bones
- Anemia-related fatigue
- Increased risk of infections
- Kidney dysfunction
- Bluish color of the lips or fingernails
- Change in level of alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
- sudden change in behavior, such as lethargy and hallucinations
- Chest pain, chest tightness, chest pressure, palpitations
- High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
- Breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing and wheezing
- Seizure
- Weightloss
- Uncontrolled or heavy bleeding, hemorrhage
Symptoms may develop gradually, and some patients are diagnosed during routine testing.
How is Multiple Myeloma Diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves:
- Blood and urine tests to detect abnormal M proteins
- Bone marrow examination
- Imaging studies to assess bone involvement
- Bone Marrow Biopsy
Doctors also assess disease stage and risk features to guide treatment decisions.
Treatment Options for Multiple Myeloma
Treatment is personalized and often given in phases.
Drug-Based Therapy
Most patients begin treatment with combinations of:
- Targeted therapies
- Immunomodulatory drugs
- Steroids
- Chemotherapy
These treatments control the disease and relieve symptoms.
Autologous Stem Cell Transplant (for Selected Patients)
An autologous transplant uses the patient’s own stem cells after high-dose chemotherapy. It is:
- Not a cure
- Used to deepen remission
- Often recommended for younger or medically fit patients
Not all patients require or benefit from transplant.
Maintenance Therapy
Low-dose ongoing treatment may be used after initial therapy to prolong remission.
Radiotherapy
Using radiation to destroy cancer cells and helps to control pain and reduce the risk.
Living With Multiple Myeloma
Myeloma treatment often follows a pattern of:
- Active treatment
- Periods of remission
- Careful monitoring
Many patients maintain good quality of life between treatments with appropriate follow-up.