According to MedlinePlus, multiple myeloma is cancer of the plasma cells in bone marrow. Where plasma cells help a healthy immune system fight disease by producing antibodies, in multiple myeloma, plasma cells grow out of control and form tumors in the bone marrow leading to destruction of the bones.
Some of the symptoms of multiple myeloma include:
- Bone pain, usually in the back and ribs
- Broken bones, usually in the spine
- Feeling weak and very tired
- Feeling very thirsty
- Frequent infections and fevers
- Weight loss
- Nausea or constipation
- Frequent urination
The National Cancer Institute multiple myeloma information section states myeloma, also known as multiple myeloma or plasma cell myeloma, is the second most common blood cancer in the US and accounts for one percent of all cancers. In 2009, 20,580 of myeloma were reported as well as 10,580 deaths.
