Plasma cell myeloma

Plasma Cell Myeloma Plasma cell myeloma, also known as multiple myeloma, is a type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells, a type of white blood cell responsible for producing antibodies. This disease is characterized by the accumulation of malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow, leading to bone damage, anemia, kidney dysfunction, and increased susceptibility to infections.

Pathophysiology

Plasma cell myeloma arises from a single clone of plasma cells that undergoes malignant transformation. These cells proliferate uncontrollably and produce a monoclonal protein, often referred to as M protein or paraprotein, which can be detected in the blood or urine. The accumulation of these abnormal cells in the bone marrow disrupts normal blood cell production and can lead to bone lesions.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of plasma cell myeloma include:

• Bone pain, particularly in the back or ribs
• Fatigue and weakness due to anemia
• Frequent infections due to compromised immune function
• Hypercalcemia, leading to nausea, vomiting, and confusion
• Renal impairment

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of plasma cell myeloma typically involves a combination of:

• Blood tests to detect monoclonal protein and assess kidney function
• Bone marrow biopsy to identify abnormal plasma cells
• Imaging studies, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, to detect bone lesions

Treatment

Treatment options for plasma cell myeloma include:

• Chemotherapy to kill cancerous cells
• Targeted therapy, such as proteasome inhibitors and immunomodulatory drugs
• Stem cell transplantation to replace diseased bone marrow
• Radiation therapy to relieve bone pain

Prognosis

The prognosis for plasma cell myeloma varies depending on factors such as the stage of the disease, patient age, and response to treatment. Advances in therapy have improved survival rates, but the disease remains incurable.

Research and Future Directions

Ongoing research in plasma cell myeloma focuses on understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms of the disease, developing new targeted therapies, and improving patient outcomes through personalized medicine approaches.

See Also

• Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance
• Waldenstr m's macroglobulinemia
• Amyloidosis
• "Multiple Myeloma." National Cancer Institute. [1]
• "Plasma Cell Myeloma." Mayo Clinic. [2]

NIH genetic and rare disease info

• NIH info on Plasma cell myeloma

Plasma cell myeloma is a rare disease.