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Multiple Myeloma

Overview

Multiple myeloma is a blood cancer of plasma cells, the white blood cells that normally make antibodies to fight infection.

In myeloma, abnormal plasma cells multiply inside the bone marrow, crowding out healthy blood-forming cells. This disrupts normal blood function and leads to a wide range of complications.

It is the third most common blood cancer in the U.S. and can cause bone damage, kidney problems, anemia, infections, and other systemic issues. PV can begin as MGUS or smoldering myeloma, conditions with abnormal proteins but no symptoms.

Myeloma is usually treatable but not curable; however, modern therapies have significantly improved outcomes.

Causes & Risk Factors

The exact cause is not known, but myeloma begins when a single plasma cell develops genetic mutations and multiplies uncontrollably.

Risk factors for multiple myeloma put those in the following groups or with these ailments at an increased risk:

Older age

(most diagnosed in mid‑60s or older)

Caucasian Men

Black race

(twice as common)

Family history

of myeloma

Radiation or chemical exposure

History of MGUS or plasmacytoma

Common Symptoms

Early disease may have no symptoms. As myeloma progresses, common symptoms include:

Bone & Physical Symptoms

  • Bone pain (spine, hips, ribs)
  • Weakened bones or fractures
  • Fatigue and weakness (often from anemia)
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Frequent infections

Crab Features (Hallmark Organ Damage)

Used to define active myeloma:

  • Calcium elevation
  • Renal (kidney) dysfunction
  • Anemia
  • Bone lesions (click here for more info)

Other Symptoms

  • Nausea or constipation
  • Extreme thirst or frequent urination (calcium changes)
  • Numbness or tingling in arms or legs

How We Diagnose Myeloma

Diagnosis typically requires blood, urine, bone marrow, and imaging studies:

Blood Tests

  • M‑protein levels
  • Free light chain ratio
  • Beta‑2 microglobulin
  • Kidney function, calcium levels

Urine Tests

  • Bence‑Jones proteins (light chains)

Bone Marrow Biopsy

Confirms plasma cell percentage and evaluates genetic markers.

Imaging

X‑ray, CT, MRI, or PET scans to detect bone lesions.

Staging

At Illinois CancerCare, we use the ISS staging system based on beta‑2‑microglobulin and albumin:

  • Stage I: Low beta‑2 microglobulin, normal albumin
  • Stage II: Intermediate
  • Stage III: High beta‑2 microglobulin (≥5.5 mg/L)

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on disease stage, symptoms, age, and overall health.

For smoldering myeloma with no organ damage, monitoring may be recommended.

  • Chemotherapy
  • Targeted therapy (proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulators)
  • Immunotherapy such as monoclonal antibodies
  • Corticosteroids (control inflammation, kill myeloma cells)

High-dose chemotherapy followed by infusion of healthy stem cells. This is often used for eligible younger/healthy patients.

Advanced therapies for relapsed or refractory myeloma.

Used for painful bone lesions or spinal cord compression.

  • Bone-strengthening drugs
  • Transfusions
  • Hydration support
  • Infection prevention

Living With Multiple Myeloma

Myeloma can affect:

  • Bone health (pain, fractures)
  • Kidney function
  • Immunity (higher infection risk)
  • Blood counts (anemia, bleeding)

Patients benefit from:

  • Ongoing monitoring
  • Exercise as tolerated
  • Nutrition support
  • Managing side effects early
  • A strong partnership with a hematology/oncology team

When To See Your Provider

Contact your provider if you experience:

New or worsening bone pain

Fever or signs of infection

Dizzy

Sudden weakness or confusion

Low energy

Excessive fatigue

Severe nausea, vomiting, or dehydration

Why Choose Illinois CancerCare

A blood disorder diagnosis can feel overwhelming. At Illinois CancerCare, we are committed to ensuring you never have to face it alone. Providing advanced, comprehensive hematology and oncology care for our patients is at the heart of everything we do. Since 1977, our specialists have focused on individualized, evidence-based treatment plans, access to world-class clinical trials, and thorough follow-up. With Illinois CancerCare, you can move forward with confidence knowing trusted expertise and compassionate support are always close to home.‑based treatment plans, access to world‑class clinical trials, and thorough follow‑up.

Sources & Patient Friendly References

Information sourced from Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic.