Diseases
multiple myeloma
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Multiple myeloma, also known as myeloma, is a type of bone marrow cancer. Bone marrow is the spongy tissue at the centre of some bones that produces the body's blood cells. It's called multiple myeloma as the cancer often affects several areas of the body, such as the spine, skull, pelvis and ribs.
Symptoms
- nausea
- bone pain, especially in your spine or chest
- loss of appetite
- constipation
- mental fogginess or confusion
Causes
- doctors know that myeloma begins with one abnormal plasma cell in the bone marrow
Risk factors
- increasing age
- male sex.
- black race.
Diagnosis
- blood tests.
- urine tests.
- imaging tests.
- examination of your bone marrow.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is multiple myeloma?
Multiple myeloma, also known as myeloma, is a type of bone marrow cancer. Bone marrow is the spongy tissue at the centre of some bones that produces the body's blood cells. It's called multiple myeloma as the cancer often affects several areas of the body, such as the spine, skull, pelvis and ribs.
What are the symptoms of multiple myeloma?
nausea, bone pain, especially in your spine or chest, loss of appetite, constipation, mental fogginess or confusion
What causes multiple myeloma?
doctors know that myeloma begins with one abnormal plasma cell in the bone marrow
Which medicines are used for multiple myeloma?
bortezomib, carfilzomib, daratumumab, ixazomib, lenalidomide, liposomal doxorubicin, melphalan
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