Multiple myeloma is a cancer that develops in plasma cells in the bone marrow, which are a type of white blood cell called a plasma cell. In healthy individuals, these cells produce antibodies to help fight infections. However, in multiple myeloma, cancerous plasma cells grow out of control, crowding out the normal cells that help fight infection. This can lead to a weakened immune system and the production of abnormal antibodies called M proteins. The exact cause of multiple myeloma is not yet identified, and it is considered a heterogeneous disease, meaning that each case is unique. Common symptoms of multiple myeloma include bone pain, weakness, and susceptibility to infections. It can also lead to complications such as anemia, bone problems, and kidney issues
. For more information, you can visit the following websites:
- Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/multiple-myeloma/symptoms-causes/syc-20353378
- CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/myeloma/index.htm
- The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation: https://themmrf.org/multiple-myeloma/
- American Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/multiple-myeloma/about/what-is-multiple-myeloma.html
- MD Anderson Cancer Center: https://www.mdanderson.org/cancer-types/multiple-myeloma.html
