Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the blood’s plasma cells.
According to USA TODAY, the disease can damage bones, kidneys, and other organs, but it often begins with very common symptoms such as back pain or general body soreness.
Hematology specialist and oncologist Robert Rifkin explains in USA TODAY that the disease is not considered hereditary and that no clear cause has yet been identified.
This makes it difficult to predict, both for patients and doctors.
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The International Myeloma Foundation states that myeloma cells can weaken bones by disrupting the body’s normal process of building bone tissue.
This can lead to fractures without any major accidents.
Difficult to detect
According to USA TODAY, most people are diagnosed with multiple myeloma between the ages of 65 and 69.
The symptoms can be so mild that many do not seek medical attention until late in the course of the disease.
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Robert Rifkin emphasizes that persistent pain or noticeable changes in the body should be taken seriously.
In some cases, a blood test can be an important step in the diagnostic process.
An unusual case
USA TODAY has described a case in which both a mother and her adult daughter received the same diagnosis within a short period of time.
According to Robert Rifkin, this is a rare coincidence.
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The mother’s disease is now in remission following advanced immunotherapy, while the daughter continues to receive treatment.
Both say that being able to support each other has been of great importance in a situation that others around them found difficult to fully understand.
The many new treatment options also provide hope, even though the disease can return.
Sources: USA TODAY, and International Myeloma Foundation.
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