Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma occurs when plasma cells in the blood grow quickly and become malignant. Plasma cells play an important role in fighting infection, but when they divide abnormally, they form a tumor in the bone marrow referred to as a myeloma. More than one myeloma is referred to as multiple myeloma
Often patients do not recognize the symptoms of multiple myeloma until the disease has progressed. At first, symptoms such as pain in the lower back and ribs, fatigue, and kidney problems may seem to be associated with different disorders. However, myeloma can cause serious damage to the back bones, which can lead to nerve damage in the spinal cord. In turn, a patient with myeloma may experience numbness and tingling, muscle fatigue, and difficulty during urination and bowel movements. In patients without symptoms, myeloma may be found by a normal blood test during annual check-ups. Once a doctor suspects myeloma, testing of the blood or urine, X-rays of the bones, and a bone marrow biopsy are usually done to confirm that cancer is present.
Chemotherapy is a commonly used method for treating multiple myeloma. Determining which drug and dosage to use is based on the cancer stage, the patient’s age and kidney health, and the possibility of stem cell transplantation.
To review information about a treatment option for multiple myeloma for those who have received at least one prior therapy, click here. Please speak with your healthcare professional to determine if this treatment is appropriate for you.
An Introduction to the Immunoglobulins Test in Multiple Myeloma
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The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF)
Information about multiple myeloma; treatments, clinical trials, research, news articles, medical programs, and information on how to start fundraising groups.
International Myeloma Foundation 
Dedicated to improving the quality of life of myeloma patients while working toward prevention and a cure; gives information on physician services and educational seminars for families and patients. Also provides links to online myeloma discussion forums within 100 support groups located around the world.
Mayo Clinic
Not-for-profit hospital offers an introduction for those newly diagnosed with cancer; includes step-by-step information about signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, and screening techniques.
MedlinePlus
Developed by government agencies and other health organizations, this site contains information about drugs, an illustrated medical encyclopedia, lots of interactive patient tutorials, and the latest health news. Also features a "guide to healthy web surfing."
MedlinePlus Interactive Tutorial: Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma multimedia presentation with easy-to-use controls, plus question and answer section.
National Cancer Institute 
A detailed online booklet listing possible causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and coping techniques for myeloma.
