Multiple myeloma

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Cryoglobulinemia - of the fingers

Immune system structures

Multiple myeloma

Alternative Names:

Plasma cell dyscrasia; Plasma cell myeloma; Malignant plasmacytoma; Plasmacytoma of bone
Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms, since chemotherapy and even transplant rarely lead to permanent cure. Complete remission is unusual.

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People who have mild disease -- or for whom the diagnosis is in doubt -- are usually observed without treatment. Some people have a slow-developing form which takes years before it causes symptoms. When the disease advances or causes symptoms, treatment is begun.

Chemotherapy and localized radiation therapy for relief of bone pain or treating a bone tumor may be useful. Bone marrow transplantation in younger patients has been shown to increase disease-free and overall survival, but it has significant risks.

Several promising new treatments including thalidomide, proteosome inhibitors, and arsenic trioxide are currently being investigated in clinical trials. Discuss participation with your doctor.

Symptoms of high serum calcium levels are treated, and dehydration is avoided to help maintain proper kidney function.

Support Groups:

The stress of illness may be eased by joining a support group whose members share common experiences and problems. See cancer - support group.

Expectations (prognosis):

The average (median) survival of people with multiple myeloma is about 3 years, but this depends on the patient's age and the stage of disease. Some cases are very aggressive, while others take years to progress -- so discuss your individual condition with your doctor.

Complications: