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Myeloma

About Myeloma

Myeloma is a malignancy of the white blood cells called plasma cells found primarily in bone marrow. The malignancy destroys normal bone marrow tissue and slows normal blood cell production. These malignant cells produce a protein called monoclonal immunoglobulin which, rather than helping to fight infection as normal proteins would, they are functionless.

Risk Factors

There are no known or identifiable risk factors for myeloma.   No links have been made to age, race, sex or genetics.

Signs and Symptoms

The first symptom of myeloma may be bone pain.  Patients may also be anemic and tire more easily and feel weakness.  Recurrent infections or bone fractures may also be signs of myeloma.  Often there is a loss of general feeling of well-being.


Reference: American Cancer Society - www.cancer.org