DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Multiple Myeloma
A malignancy of plasma cells characterized by clonal proliferation in bone marrow, monoclonal protein production, and end-organ damage (CRAB: hyperCalcemia, Renal insufficiency, Anemia, Bone lesions). Median age at diagnosis 69 years.
500.0K
16
Symptoms
Treatment Options
Risk Factors
Diagnostic Methods
- 1Biopsy
- 2Imaging (CT, MRI, PET)
- 3Tumor markers
- 4Genetic testing
- 5Endoscopy
- 6Blood tests
- 7Screening programs
Prognosis
Untreated disease has median survival of 6-12 months. With modern therapy (proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs, monoclonal antibodies), median survival extends to 7-10 years. Transplant-eligible patients have better outcomes. High-risk cytogenetics (del17p, t(4;14), t(14;16)) reduce survival to 3-4 years. Early intervention for smoldering myeloma with high-risk features is being studied. Maintenance therapy improves progression-free survival. CAR-T and bispecific antibodies show promise in relapse.
Prevention
- Smoking cessation
- Sun protection
- Healthy diet
- Regular exercise
- Vaccination (HPV, HBV)
- Screening programs
- Limit alcohol
- Maintain healthy weight
Research Status
Proteasome inhibitors (bortezomib, carfilzomib), IMiDs (lenalidomide, pomalidomide), anti-CD38 (daratumumab), BCMA-targeted therapy (belantamab, CAR-T). Autologous stem cell transplant for eligible. Survival now 5-10 years.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.cancer.gov
- https://www.who.int/cancer
- https://www.cancer.org
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.