Risk Factors
- Multiple myeloma is a cancer that forms in a type of white blood cell called a plasma cell. Plasma cells help you fight infections by making antibodies that recognize and attack germs. Multiple myeloma causes cancer cells to accumulate in the bone marrow, where they crowd out healthy blood cells. The main function of plasma cells is to produce antibodies or immunoglobulin.
- Normally the amount of plasma cells will make up approximately 2-3% of the bone marrow. However, multiple myeloma causes this number to increase to more than 10%, as well as causing malfunctions in immunoglobulin production. It leads to abnormal proteins referred to as M protein or Monoclonal protein which are harmful to the body’s organs for example it can lead to osteoporosis, fractures, kidney failures, and alters the level of calcium in the body to dangerous levels.
- It is most common in individuals aged between 60-70 and is uncommon in individuals below the age of 40
- Sometimes the plasma cells may form a tumor located outside the bone marrow. This is referred to as Plasmacytoma and is most often found in the spine, sternum, or ribs.
- Although there is currently no cure for multiple myeloma, it can still be treated to an extent due to advancements in medicine (in past 10 years) that has allowed victims to extend their life span despite the condition.
