Causes and risk factors:
The exact cause of multiple myeloma is not known however it has been postulated that one of the abnormal plasma cells undergoes uncontrolled and abnormal multiplication, these multiplied cells then accumulate and form tumor(Plasmatocytes).Multiple plasmatocytes is known and multiple myeloma. These further hamper the production of healthy cells.
Clinical presentations:
Multiple myelomas commonly affect and are found in bones. Vertebra are the commonest site, the patient can remain asymptomatic for a long time. In symptomatic patients varied symptoms are seen. Bone pain and pain in back are the most common symptom experienced by the patient. The person becomes more susceptible for fractures Affection of the blood cells leads to anemia resulting in weakness and fatigue. The kidney is the other prone organ to be affected. Nausea, excessive thirst, loss of appetite, constipation are the accompanying symptoms.Mutilple myeloma patients becomes vulnerable for recurrent infection. Dullness, fogginess and confusion are the mental manifestations seen.
Diagnosis and investigations:
Diagnosis is done on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and the examination carried out by the doctor. Certain sets of investigations can be advised. Routine blood test, urine analysis, serum electrolyte, serum calcium, renal function test, Biopsies of the bone marrow and complete skeletal MRI and CT scan is advised.
Treatment:
Asymptomatic patient usually do not need any treatment however periodic checkup and follow ups for monitoring is necessary. Chemotherapy is the initial choice of treatment in symptomatic patients. Medications like high dose steroids and other therapeutic drugs are advised.. Localized irradiation is opted for localized myeloma which will relief pain and help in clearing the lesion. Stem cell transplantation for replacing the diseases bone marrow can be done.
Other modes of treatment:
The other modes of treatment can also be effective. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms.
Recent update:
A study carried out by the researchers of the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center provided evidence which showed that genetically modifying immune cells might effectively treat multiple myeloma.
