Multiple myeloma
Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that begins in plasma cells, a kind of white blood cell found in the bone marrow. Plasma cells normally help the body fight infections by producing antibodies. In multiple myeloma, cancerous plasma cells grow uncontrollably and crowd out normal cells within the bone marrow.
As the abnormal cells multiply, they affect the body's ability to produce healthy blood cells. This can lead to symptoms such as bone pain, fatigue, frequent infections, and anemia. Multiple myeloma can also cause kidney issues and weaken bones, making them more susceptible to fractures.
Though multiple myeloma is currently considered incurable, treatments are available to help manage the symptoms and control the spread of the disease. These treatments include medications, chemotherapy, stem cell transplants, and more personalized targeted therapies. With ongoing advancements in medical research, individuals with multiple myeloma have more options and a more optimistic prognosis than in the past.
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