Multiple Myeloma, essentially a disease of the BONE

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells, which are white blood cells that produce antibodies to fight infections. In multiple myeloma, cancerous plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow, crowding out healthy blood cells and causing damage to bones and organs.

Symptoms: - Bone pain or fractures - Fatigue - Weight loss - Frequent infections - Anemia (low red blood cell count) - High calcium levels - Kidney problems

EARLY SYMPTOMS: : Weakness in the arms and legs and/or a sensation of numbness in arms and legs. Multiple myeloma can affect the bones in the spine, causing them to collapse and press on the spinal cord.

Ocular symptoms may include diplopia, pain or pressure in the eye, ptosis, proptosis, or loss of vision. Usually asymptomatic. Rarely causes visual disturbances. Vision Loss and Blurred Vision are two most common findings.

Causes and risk factors: - Unknown exact cause /idiopathic-

Risk factors: - Age (over 65) - Family history - Previous radiation exposure - Certain genetic conditions

Diagnosis: - Blood tests (e.g., complete blood count, blood chemistry) - Urine tests - Bone marrow biopsy - Imaging tests (e.g., X-rays, MRI)

Treatment: - Chemotherapy - Stem cell transplantation - Targeted therapy - Radiation therapy - Supportive care (e.g., pain management, infection prevention)

Prognosis: - Varies depending on stage and overall health - With treatment, many people can manage their disease and improve quality of life 

Hematologists and Oncologists are experts in diagnosing and treating multiple myeloma, either one can be consulted. Hematologists specialize in treating blood diseases, and medical oncologists specialize in treating cancer.

Author

Paddy Kalish OD, JD and B.Arch