Multiple myeloma (patient information)
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What is multiple myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells that is a type of white blood cell. The exact cause of multiple myeloma is not known. Epidemiological data suggest that it is more common in older people and African-Americans. Usual symptoms may include bone pain, broken bones, weakness or fatigue, weight loss and repeated infections. Multiple myeloma is hard to cure. Treatments include chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation and radiation. The prognosis is poor.
How do I know if I have multiple myeloma and what are the symptoms of multiple myeloma?
Early multiple myeloma does not have any symptoms. As the tumor grows larger, people may notice one or more of the following symptoms:
- Bone pain
- Broken bones
- Muscle numbness and/or muscle weakness
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Edema in legs
Other health problems may also cause these symptoms. Only a doctor can tell for sure. A person with any of these symptoms should tell the doctor so that the problems can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.
Who is at risk for multiple myeloma?
How to know you have multiple myeloma?
When to seek urgent medical care?
Treatment options
Diseases with similar symptoms
Where to find medical care for multiple myeloma?
Directions to Hospitals Treating multiple myeloma
Prevention of multiple myeloma
What to expect (Outook/Prognosis)?
Copyleft Sources
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/multiplemyeloma.html