What is myeloma?

Myeloma, also called multiple myeloma, is a type of cancer that affects plasma cells. These are white blood cells that produce antibodies to help fight infections. According to a multiple myeloma cancer doctor in Kolkata, in myeloma, abnormal plasma cells accumulate in your bone marrow and affect the production of normal blood cells. The abnormal plasma cells in myeloma produce large amounts of a protein called monoclonal immunoglobulin, which build up in the body and damage organs such as the kidneys.

The symptoms of myeloma can vary depending on the stage of the disease and the areas of the body that are affected, but some common symptoms include :

1. Bone pain, especially in your back, ribs, and hips. 2. Fatigue and weakness. 3. Frequent infections. 4 . Anaemia (low red blood cell count), which can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness. 5. Kidney problems can cause swelling in the hands and feet, frequent urination, and difficulty urinating. 6. Nerve problems can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hands and feet. 7. Unexplained weight loss. 8. Loss of appetite. 9. Nausea and vomiting. 10. Constipation.

Several factors have been identified that may increase the risk of developing the disease. The best oncologist in Kolkata discusses them below.

1. Age : The risk of developing myeloma increases with age. Most people diagnosed with myeloma are over 65 years old. 2. Gender : Men are more likely to develop myeloma than women. 3. Exposure to radiation : People who have been exposed to high levels of radiation, such as atomic bomb survivors, may have an increased risk of developing myeloma. 4. Family history : People who have a family history of myeloma have a high risk of developing the disease. 5. Exposure to certain chemicals : Exposure to certain chemicals, such as benzene and pesticides, may increase the risk of developing myeloma. 6. Weakened immune system : People who have a weak immune system, like those with HIV or who have received an organ transplant, may have an increased risk of developing myeloma.

There are several treatment options available for myeloma, including :

1. Chemotherapy : As per a chemotherapy doctor in Kolkata, it is the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It is often used as the initial treatment for myeloma. 2. Radiation therapy : It uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It is often used to shrink tumours or relieve bone pain caused by myeloma. 3. Immunotherapy : It is a type of treatment that stimulates the patient’s immune system to attack cancer cells. This type of treatment may be used in combination with chemotherapy or as a stand-alone treatment. 4. Targeted therapy : Targeted therapy uses drugs that specifically target cancer cells without harming healthy cells. This type of therapy is used in combination with chemotherapy. 5. Stem cell transplant : It is a procedure in which the patient’s own healthy stem cells are harvested and then re-infused after high-dose chemotherapy. This type of treatment is usually reserved for younger patients who are in good health. 6. Surgery : Surgery may be used in rare cases to remove a localized tumour.