Hematology and Blood Disorders
Whether you are fighting cancer or managing a blood disorder, the hematologists and oncologists at Main Line Health offer the comprehensive care you need.
Multiple Myeloma
What is multiple myeloma?
This is a cancer that forms in the plasma cells, a type of white blood cell formed in the bone marrow and important for fighting infection. With multiple myeloma, the plasma cells behave abnormally, releasing too much immunoglobulin (a type of protein) into the bones and blood, which leads to organ damage. This abnormal plasma cell activity also causes the release of chemicals that further damage and weaken the bones.
There is no known cause for multiple myeloma but risk of the disease is higher in African Americans. It is also more common in men and people of advanced age (60s+).
Symptoms of multiple myeloma
- Bone pain in the spine or chest
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent infections
- Nausea
- Weakness
Diagnosis and testing for multiple myeloma
To diagnose your condition, your doctor will perform a complete physical exam and review of your medical history. Certain blood and urine tests may be ordered, such as complete blood count, electrophoresis, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and bone marrow biopsy. Your doctor may also wish to test for bone damage using X-ray, MRI, CT or PET scan.
If you are diagnosed with multiple myeloma, your doctor will go over your test results and discuss treatment options with you. Depending on your age, overall health, and the stage of disease, treatment may include medication, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and in some cases, stem cell transplant.
Treatments
Bone Marrow Transplant
Preserving stem cells, then introducing them to the body to stimulate normal, healthy blood cell production, can be a lifesaving treatment option.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is used to fight almost every type of cancer and is part of the comprehensive treatment plan created by our oncologists.
Cancer Care
From diagnosis and throughout treatment, Main Line Health cancer specialists (oncologists) provide compassionate care for you and your loved ones through all stages of cancer treatment.