Myeloma (sometimes referred to as multiple myeloma) accounts for approximately 11% of all haematological malignancies with an estimated 3700 cases newly diagnosed in the UK each year. Myeloma is characterized by an overproduction of plasma cells in the body and is more common in people over the age of 60.

Plasma cells develop from B-lymphocytes, and produce proteins called immunoglobulins (antibodies) which help the body fight infection.

For more information about antibodies (immunoglobulins), click here.

The abnormal plasma cells associated with myeloma secrete large amounts of a substance known as a paraprotein (M protein). This paraprotein is an indicator of disease progression and response to treatment, and is regularly monitored in patients with myeloma.

In the early stages, myeloma may cause no symptoms, remaining stable for several years and requiring no treatment. At presentation with symptoms more than two-thirds of patients have bone pain, most commonly in the back and chest. More advanced disease may lead to pathological fractures or vetebral collapse with loss of height. Infiltration of the bone-marrow by plasma cells can also result in bleeding. In addition, infections are more common due to the low level of normal immunoglobulins, and other complications such as renal (kidney) failure may also occur.

Treatment of Myeloma

Treatment generally includes chemotherapy, management of specific complications, and pain relief which sometimes includes radiotherapy. Treatment need is related to the stage of disease which is based on the levels of haemoglobin, paraprotein, calcium, and extent of bone disease.

Plasmacytomas

Sometimes the abnormal plasma cells are limited to just one area of the body resulting in a solitary plasmacytoma. Patients are monitored by their doctor as this can sometimes progress to become myeloma. A solitary plasmacytoma may sometimes be treated with local therapy, such as radiotherapy.

Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS)

MGUS is a disease in which plasma cells are overproduced in the body but not to the same extent as in myeloma. MGUS tends to be a benign condition which rarely causes symptoms. There is a small risk that MGUS will progress to myeloma, lymphoma or other disorders, and because of this patients with MGUS are regularly monitored.