The American Cancer Society predicts that there will be roughly 37K new cases of multiple myeloma this year. Early detection of this disease can be challenging because its initial symptoms are often subtle and easily mistaken for other conditions. Recognizing these early signs is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
Early Signs of Multiple Myeloma
- Bone Pain and Fractures: One of the most common early signs of multiple myeloma is bone pain, particularly in the spine, ribs, and pelvis. This pain results from the cancerous cells accumulating in the bone marrow, leading to bone weakening and increased risk of fractures. Patients often report experiencing persistent, dull aching that can become more pronounced with physical activity.
- Frequent Infections: Multiple myeloma can impair the body’s ability to fight infections. Since the cancer affects plasma cells, which play a critical role in the immune system, patients may notice they are more susceptible to infections, and recovery from common illnesses such as colds and flu can take longer.
- Fatigue and Weakness: Chronic fatigue is another early sign of multiple myeloma. This fatigue is often severe and disproportionate to the level of activity performed. It is caused by anemia, a condition where the bone marrow cannot produce enough red blood cells due to the overproduction of abnormal plasma cells.
- Hypercalcemia: Hypercalcemia, or high levels of calcium in the blood, is a result of the breakdown of bone tissue. Symptoms of hypercalcemia include excessive thirst, frequent urination, constipation, nausea, and confusion. These symptoms are often mistaken for other less severe conditions, delaying diagnosis.
- Kidney Problems: The abnormal proteins produced by myeloma cells can cause kidney damage. Early signs of kidney issues include changes in urine output, swelling in the legs and ankles, and high blood pressure. Blood tests may reveal high levels of creatinine, indicating impaired kidney function.
Available Treatment Options
Treatment for multiple myeloma varies depending on the stage of the disease, the patient’s overall health, and other individual factors. Here are some of the primary treatment options available:
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells and is often one of the first lines of treatment for multiple myeloma. It can be administered orally or intravenously. Commonly used drugs include melphalan, cyclophosphamide, and dexamethasone. Chemotherapy is often combined with other treatments for a more effective approach.
- Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy involves drugs that specifically target the abnormalities in cancer cells. For multiple myeloma, medications like bortezomib, carfilzomib, and ixazomib inhibit proteasomes, which are enzymes that help myeloma cells grow and survive.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. Drugs like lenalidomide, pomalidomide, and thalidomide enhance the immune system’s ability to identify and destroy myeloma cells. Monoclonal antibodies, such as daratumumab and elotuzumab, specifically target myeloma cells and mark them for destruction by the immune system.
- Stem Cell Transplantation: A stem cell transplant involves replacing the diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells. There are two types: autologous (using the patient’s own stem cells) and allogeneic (using stem cells from a donor). This procedure is often preceded by high-dose chemotherapy to eliminate as many myeloma cells as possible.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and kill cancer cells. It is typically used to treat localized bone pain or areas where myeloma cells have caused significant damage. Radiation can help reduce pain and prevent further bone damage.
- Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids, such as dexamethasone and prednisone, are used to reduce inflammation and directly kill myeloma cells. They are often used in combination with other treatments like chemotherapy and targeted therapy.
Early detection of multiple myeloma is essential for effective treatment and improved patient outcomes. Recognizing the early signs, such as bone pain, frequent infections, fatigue, hypercalcemia, and kidney problems, can lead to a timely diagnosis. With advancements in medical treatments, various options, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, stem cell transplantation, radiation therapy, and corticosteroids, offer hope and improved quality of life for those affected by this condition. If you or a loved one experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and management.
