Multiple Myeloma: Understanding A Blood Cancer That Affects Bone Marrow

17 Dec, 2025

Dr. Rajesh Bollam

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Multiple Myeloma: Understanding a Blood Cancer That Affects Bone Marrow

Multiple Myeloma is a type of blood cancer that begins in the bone marrow, the soft tissue inside bones where blood cells are produced. It affects plasma cells, an important part of the immune system and can weaken bones, reduce immunity, and impact overall health if not diagnosed early.

With advances in medical oncology, multiple myeloma is now highly manageable, especially when detected at the right time.

What Is Multiple Myeloma?

In multiple myeloma, abnormal plasma cells multiply uncontrollably in the bone marrow. These cancerous cells crowd out healthy blood cells and produce abnormal proteins that can damage bones, kidneys, and immunity.

It most commonly affects:

  1. Adults above 50 years
  2. Men slightly more than women
  3. People with long-standing immune or plasma cell disorders

Common Symptoms You Should Not Ignore

Multiple myeloma symptoms often develop gradually and may be mistaken for aging or routine health issues.

Key Warning Signs:

  • Persistent bone pain, especially in the back, ribs, or hips
  • Fatigue and weakness due to anemia
  • Frequent infections caused by low immunity
  • Unexplained fractures or bone thinning
  • Weight loss and reduced appetite

If these symptoms persist, medical evaluation is essential.

How Is Multiple Myeloma Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually involves a combination of tests, including:

  1. Blood tests to detect abnormal proteins
  2. Bone marrow biopsy
  3. Imaging studies (X-ray, MRI, PET-CT) to assess bone damage
  4. Kidney function and calcium level tests

Early diagnosis helps prevent complications and improves treatment outcomes.

Modern Treatment Options for Multiple Myeloma

Today, multiple myeloma treatment has advanced significantly, offering patients better survival and quality of life.

Treatment may include:

  • Targeted therapy
  • Immunotherapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Steroids
  • Bone marrow (stem cell) transplant in eligible patients

Treatment plans are personalized based on age, disease stage, and overall health.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

  1. Better control of bone damage
  2. Reduced risk of kidney failure
  3. Improved response to modern therapies
  4. Longer disease-free survival

Regular follow-ups and timely treatment are key to managing multiple myeloma effectively.

Expert Care at Renova Hospitals

At Renova Hospitals, patients with multiple myeloma receive comprehensive care under the guidance of Dr. Rajesh Bollam, an experienced and European-certified Medical Oncologist.

Multiple myeloma is a serious condition, but with early diagnosis, modern treatments, and expert care, patients can live longer and better lives.

Book Your Consultation Today

Dr. Rajesh Bollam
Director – Renova Hospitals
www.drrajeshoncologist.com
+91 9505878232

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