Myeloma

Myeloma is a cancer that begins in plasma cells. Plasma cells are white blood cells that fight infection as part of the immune system. Abnormal, cancerous plasma cells are called myeloma cells. Myeloma cells can weaken the immune system, interfere with blood cell production, damage the kidneys and weaken bones. Because myeloma cells collect at many sites in the bone marrow, the disease is often referred to as “multiple myeloma.”

Some people, including those who are male, or African-American, have higher risk factors for myeloma than others do.

People with multiple myeloma often find out about their disease because of symptoms such as constipation, fatigue, frequent thirst and urination, muscle weakness or bone pain. Some people may not experience any symptoms. Multiple myeloma is often found during routine blood and urine tests.

Spectrum Health has one of the most sophisticated diagnostic laboratories in the country—often allowing us to make a diagnosis in just a few hours to a few days. This is significantly faster than most cancer centers.