Multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that starts in plasma cells in the bone marrow. Plasma cells make antibodies that help the immune system fight infections. Bone marrow is the spongy tissue inside bones where normal blood cells are created.

In multiple myeloma, the cancerous plasma cells grow out of control and multiply. They crowd out healthy blood cells, including:

• Red blood cells, which help carry oxygen throughout the body
• White blood cells, which help fight infections
• Platelets, which help blood clot

A lack of normal blood cells can lead to:

• Anemia, a shortage of red blood cells
• Thrombocytopenia, which leads to abnormal bleeding and bruising
• Leukopenia, which is a lowered ability to fight infections

In addition, multiple myeloma cells release an antibody called M protein, which can cause:

• Kidney damage
• Tumors
• Weakened bone and risk of bone fractures

A person with multiple myeloma might have some of the following symptoms:

• Bone pain or weakness, sometimes leading to fractures
• Extreme thirst
• Fatigue (excessive tiredness), weakness or confusion
• Loss of appetite or weight loss for no apparent reason
• Nausea, constipation or belly pain
• Pain or weakness, especially in the back or legs
• Repeat infections
• Urinating (peeing) a lot

What causes myeloma cancer?

Multiple myeloma is caused by several genetic mutations. Scientists at Penn are still studying the causes, and each case is unique. Some people seem to be at higher risk of developing the disease:

• African Americans
• Men
• Older adults
• Overweight or obese individuals
• People who have a family history of multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma: the Penn Medicine advantage

If you have multiple myeloma, you need accurate diagnosis and advanced treatment from experts. Penn hematologists are pioneers in the diagnosis and treatment of blood cancers. When you choose us for multiple myeloma care, you'll find:

• A nationally recognized program: Penn is one of just a few hematologic malignancy research programs in the country approved and funded by the National Cancer Institute. Our team is one of the largest and most experienced in the country.
• Expertise in each type of blood cancer: Our multiple myeloma team consists of fellowship-trained hematologists (blood cancer specialists). They use the most advanced technology to accurately diagnose and stage the disease and tailor your care.
• Support through the cancer journey: We offer comprehensive cancer support services. Your team will include hematologists, nurses specialized in multiple myeloma, nurse navigators, nutritionists, support groups, financial counselors and more. They focus on sensitive, personalized attention for your unique needs.
• Every treatment option: We offer every type of effective treatment for multiple myeloma, so patients get the best possible outcomes. Options range from traditionally effective options to the newest immunotherapy and CAR T cell therapy. We're one of very few centers that specialize in bloodless transplantation for people whose religious beliefs prohibit use of blood products.
• Cutting-edge research: Penn is a pioneer in research to find new treatments for blood cancers. Our patients have access to many multiple myeloma clinical trials of the latest, most promising treatment options.

Diagnosis and treatment at Penn Medicine

The earlier we diagnose the multiple myeloma, the more treatment options you will have.

Diagnosis also involves staging, or determining how advanced a cancer is. Staging is a complex process that provides essential information about the best treatments and your prognosis (outlook).

Multiple myeloma treatment focuses on slowing or stopping the cancer's spread, as well as managing its effects on other body systems. We offer every effective option to treat multiple myeloma, including traditionally effective treatments, the newest advances and bloodless procedures.