Plasma cell myelomas, also known as multiple myeloma or Kahler's disease, is a type of cancer that arises from plasma cells. Plasma cells are a specific type of white blood cells that play a crucial role in the immune response by producing antibodies to fight against infections and diseases.
In plasma cell myelomas, these plasma cells become malignant and start to multiply rapidly, accumulating in the bone marrow and displacing normal healthy cells. This excessive production of abnormal plasma cells results in several complications, including the overproduction of non-functional antibodies called M-proteins or monoclonal proteins.
The accumulation of plasma cells and monoclonal proteins in the bone marrow leads to the destruction of bone tissue, which can cause bone pain and fractures. Additionally, the excessive plasma cells can damage other organs such as the kidneys, leading to renal failure.
Common symptoms of plasma cell myelomas include bone pain, weakness, fatigue, recurrent infections, unexplained weight loss, and kidney problems. The disease primarily affects older individuals, with the average age of diagnosis being around 70 years old.
The diagnosis of plasma cell myelomas is typically made through various tests, including blood tests, urine tests, bone marrow biopsy, and imaging studies. Treatments for plasma cell myelomas may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplantation, and targeted therapies. Although plasma cell myelomas are currently considered incurable, advancements in treatment options have significantly improved the overall survival rates and quality of life for patients with this disease.
