Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer in the blood, in which blood cells begin to be produced uncontrollably and accumulate in the bone marrow. This is a disease that produces symptoms such as severe pain in the bones and the treatment can vary from patient to patient.
Some possible causes for the disease are exposure to pesticides or spray paint, as well as infections caused by viruses, such as AIDS.
How to Identify Multiple Myeloma
Laboratory tests, tissue biopsy, and bone marrow evaluation are the tests used to diagnose multiple myeloma.
Most diagnoses of multiple myeloma are done in a patient over 75 years of age, although it can be diagnosed in individuals aged 40 years or younger.
Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma
In the early stage of the disease it has no symptoms, and in a later stage multiple myeloma can cause:
- decreased physical capacity;
- lack of energy;
- weakness;
- seasickness;
- vomiting;
- loss of appetite;
- weight loss;
- pain in the bones;
- frequent fractures;
- blood changes;
- alteration in the peripheral nerves.
Treatment for Multiple Myeloma
The treatment of multiple myeloma will depend on the age of the patient, in the newest, bone marrow transplantation is recommended, and in the elderly patients, chemotherapy seems to be the most indicated. According to the doctors, each treatment should be adjusted according to the needs of the patient.
