Multiple Myeloma

Multiple Myeloma is a type of cancer that affects the bone marrow, where blood cells are made. It involves the uncontrolled growth of a specific type of white blood cell called plasma cells. These abnormal plasma cells produce large amounts of a single type of antibody, which can cause problems in the body. The disease mainly affects the bones, leading to pain and fractures, and can also cause kidney damage and anemia. Symptoms often include bone pain, fatigue, and frequent infections due to weakened immunity. The condition disrupts the normal production of blood cells, impacting overall health.

Multiple Myeloma is a malignant proliferation of clonal plasma cells within the bone marrow that produce a monoclonal immunoglobulin or light chain. It arises from genetic mutations and chromosomal abnormalities in plasma cells, leading to their uncontrolled expansion and accumulation. The disease is characterized by bone destruction due to osteolytic lesions, hypercalcemia, anemia, and renal impairment caused by light chain deposition and hypercalcemia. The monoclonal protein (M protein) can be detected in serum or urine and is a hallmark of the disease. Clinical significance includes bone pain, pathological fractures, recurrent infections, and renal failure. It is a systemic malignancy with significant morbidity and mortality if untreated.