Multiple myeloma is malignant tumor characterized by plasma cell (a type of leukocyte) appearing in bone marrow. It can infringe bone marrow, causing multiple bone pain in the whole body. It can also affect the normal hematopoietic function, leading to anemia, thrombocytopenia, decreased immunity and other potentially life-threatening illnesses. Symptoms include anemia, frequent infection, frequent bleeding, bruising, bone pain, bone fracture, protein in urine, uremia, blood coagulation or venous thrombosis. Treatment focuses on control and suppression of the disease. Frequent use of bisphosphonate can prevents bone fracture. Erythropoietin can prevent anemia. In addition, some doctors have tried bone marrow transplant or cell transplant to treat young patients. In general, the disease can be well controlled during the early stage, but long-term control is difficult.
How is Multiple myeloma treated in practice?