Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects the plasma cells in the bone marrow. These cells are responsible for producing antibodies that help fight infections, but in multiple myeloma, they grow out of control and form tumors.

This can cause a variety of symptoms, including bone pain, fatigue, and anemia.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing multiple myeloma can be challenging because its symptoms are similar to those of other conditions. However, there have been significant advances in the way the disease is diagnosed in recent years.

Here are some of the latest diagnostic methods:.

Blood tests

Blood tests can reveal whether a person has abnormal amounts of certain proteins in their blood. These proteins can be an indication of multiple myeloma.

Doctors can also use blood tests to see how well a patient’s kidneys are functioning, as kidney problems are a common complication of multiple myeloma.

Bone marrow biopsy

A bone marrow biopsy involves removing a small amount of bone marrow from the hipbone. The sample is then examined under a microscope to look for abnormal plasma cells.

In some cases, a biopsy may be done on a different bone to see if the cancer has spread.

Imaging tests

Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans can help doctors look for bone damage and tumors caused by multiple myeloma.

Treatment

Like many cancers, multiple myeloma can be treated with a combination of chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies. However, recent advances in treatment have led to new options for patients. Here are some of the latest treatments available:.

Immunotherapies

Immunotherapies are drugs that stimulate a person’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. One type of immunotherapy that has shown promise in treating multiple myeloma is CAR T-cell therapy.

This treatment involves removing T-cells from a patient’s blood, genetically modifying them to attack cancer cells, and then infusing them back into the patient’s body.

Targeted therapies

Targeted therapies are drugs that specifically target cancer cells, while leaving healthy cells intact. One such drug is daratumumab, which targets a protein found on the surface of multiple myeloma cells.

Stem cell transplant

A stem cell transplant involves replacing a patient’s bone marrow with healthy stem cells.

This can be an effective treatment for multiple myeloma, as it allows doctors to administer high doses of chemotherapy without damaging the patient’s bone marrow.

Conclusion

Multiple myeloma is a challenging disease to diagnose and treat, but recent advances in technology and medicine have given patients more treatment options than ever before.

By using the latest diagnostic methods and treatments, doctors can provide their patients with the best possible care.