Multiple myeloma (MM)

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a type of cancer that affects plasma cells, which are a type of white blood cell that play a crucial role in the immune system. It is a complex and incurable cancer that arises from the clonal expansion of plasma cells in the bone marrow.

In MM, plasma cells in the bone marrow, the spongy tissue inside the bones, become abnormal and multiply uncontrollably, leading to the formation of tumors or lesions in bone marrow and sometimes in other tissues.

As the abnormal plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow, they interfere with the production of normal blood cells, leading to various symptoms and complications. Some common symptoms of multiple myeloma include bone pain, fatigue, weakness, frequent infections, anemia (low red blood cell count), kidney problems, and high levels of calcium in the blood.

Common symptoms of multiple myeloma include bone pain, fatigue, recurrent infections, and renal insufficiency.

Treatment options include proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs, monoclonal antibodies, bispecific antibodies, CAR -T- cell therapy, drugs with novel mechanisms of action, traditional chemotherapy, steroids.

Treatment plans are tailored to the individual patient’s condition and may also involve supportive care measures to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

According to the most recent data available, the estimated incidence of multiple myeloma worldwide is approximately 6.1 cases per 100,000 people per year. However, it is important to note that incidence rates can vary significantly by region and population. In some countries, such as the United States and some countries in Europe, the incidence of multiple myeloma tends to be higher, while in other regions, it may be lower.

Multiple myeloma is more commonly diagnosed in older adults, with the majority of cases occurring in people over the age of 65.