Is multiple myeloma blood cancer curable?

Treatment for multiple myeloma can often help control symptoms and improve quality of life. But myeloma usually can’t be cured, which means additional treatment is needed when the cancer comes back.

Is multiple myeloma a blood or bone cancer?

Multiple myeloma, also known as myeloma, is a type of bone marrow cancer. Bone marrow is the spongy tissue at the centre of some bones that produces the body’s blood cells. It’s called multiple myeloma as the cancer often affects several areas of the body, such as the spine, skull, pelvis and ribs.

Does multiple myeloma spread quickly?

Unlike many cancers, multiple myeloma appears to spread via the bloodstream. It can reach different parts of the body quickly, making it hard to treat. Multiple myeloma is a type of plasma cell neoplasm.

What are the first warning signs of multiple myeloma?

Signs and symptoms of multiple myeloma can vary and, early in the disease, there may be none….When signs and symptoms do occur, they can include:

  • Bone pain, especially in your spine or chest.
  • Nausea.
  • Constipation.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Mental fogginess or confusion.
  • Fatigue.
  • Frequent infections.
  • Weight loss.

Is multiple myeloma always fatal?

While multiple myeloma doesn’t yet have a cure and can be fatal, patients’ life expectancies vary widely, according to Jens Hillengass, MD, Chief of Myeloma at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. “I have seen patients live from several weeks to more than 20 years after being diagnosed,” Dr. Hillengass says.

What are the 7 signs of multiple myeloma?

When signs and symptoms do occur, they can include:

  • Bone pain, especially in your spine or chest.
  • Nausea.
  • Constipation.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Mental fogginess or confusion.
  • Fatigue.
  • Frequent infections.
  • Weight loss.

What are the chances of me having multiple myeloma?

Eat a healthy diet. A dietitian can help you choose the right foods,especially if you’re having trouble eating certain things because of your treatment.

  • Exercise if you can. Stay active to feel better,have more energy,and protect your bones.
  • Get plenty of rest. Take naps or breaks as needed during the day.
  • Ask for help.

    • How bad is multiple myeloma?

    Multiple myeloma, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications: Kidney failure. Bone fractures. High levels of calcium in the blood. Increased risk of infection, especially in the lungs. Weakness or loss of movement if a tumor presses on the spinal cord.

    How can multiple myeloma affect your bones?

    Weakened bones can be very painful. About 85 percent of people with multiple myeloma will have some type of bone damage or loss, leading to pain. Bones can weaken to the point of fracturing or breaking. About 40 percent of people with multiple myeloma develop fractures. The pain from a broken bone can be severe.

    How do we diagnose multiple myeloma?

    A plasma cell tumor (proven by biopsy) OR

  • At least 10% of the cells in the bone marrow be plasma cells. AND one of the following:
  • M protein over a certain level in the blood (3g/dL) OR
  • M protein in the urine over a certain level (1g/dL) OR
  • Holes in bones due to tumor growth are found on imaging studies.