Multiple myeloma, also known as plasma cell myeloma,
is a cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell normally responsible
for producing antibodies. Initially, there are often no symptoms. When
advanced, bone pain, bleeding, frequent infections, and anemia may occur.
Complications may include amyloidosis. The cause is generally unknown. The
underlying mechanism involves abnormal plasma cells producing abnormal
antibodies which can cause kidney problems and overly thick blood. The plasma
cells can also form a mass in the bone marrow or soft tissue. When there is
only one mass it is known as a plasmacytoma and when there is more than one it is
known as multiple myeloma. Multiple myeloma is diagnosed based on blood or
urine tests finding abnormal antibodies, bone marrow biopsy finding cancerous
plasma cells, and medical imaging finding bone lesions. Multiple myeloma is
considered treatable but generally incurable. Remissions may be brought about
with steroids, chemotherapy, thalidomide or lenalidomide, and stem cell
transplant. Bisphosphonates and radiation therapy are sometimes used to reduce
pain from bone lesions.
In the present book, fifteen typical literatures about multiple
myeloma published on international authoritative journals were selected to
introduce the worldwide newest progress, which contains reviews or original
researches on medical science, hematology, Lymphatic diseases, osteosarcoma, ect. We hope this book can demonstrate
advances in multiple myeloma as well as give references to the researchers,
students and other related people.