Multiple Myeloma is a type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow. Treatment options for Multiple Myeloma can vary based on the stage of the disease, the patient’s overall health, and other individual factors.
Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that focuses on specific molecules or pathways involved
in the growth and spread of cancer cells.
In multiple Multiple Myeloma, targeted therapies have become an essential part of treatment. Some of
the common targeted therapies used for Multiple Myeloma include:
Targeted therapies are often used in combination with other treatments, such as chemotherapy or corticosteroids, to enhance their effectiveness. They may be used as part of induction therapy (initial treatment), consolidation therapy (after initial treatment), or maintenance therapy (to prevent relapse).
The choice of targeted therapy and the treatment plan is based on various factors, including the patient’s specific Multiple Myeloma subtype, overall health, previous treatments, and individual response to therapy.
Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that aims to stimulate the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively.
Some of the key immunotherapy approaches used or under investigation for multiple Multiple Myeloma include:
As with any cancer treatment, the decision to use immunotherapy in multiple Multiple Myeloma depends on various factors, including the patient’s disease stage, overall health, and response to other treatments.
Chemotherapy is administered to Multiple Myeloma patients only in two situations. One instance is when they undergo autologous stem cell transplantation, for which all patients will first receive standard chemotherapy such as Melphalan before the transplant.
Chemotherapy drugs like Melphalan are occasionally employed, but they are less common for newly diagnosed Multiple Myeloma patients. Melphalan is typically used in conjunction with bone marrow transplantation to effectively control Multiple Myeloma, with the patient’s own bone marrow cells aiding recovery. In some cases, combining chemotherapy with other treatment approaches, including targeted therapies, may be recommended.
Radiation therapy employs powerful rays or particles to eliminate cancer cells, and it is often employed for bone regions affected by Multiple Myeloma that haven’t improved with targeted or immunotherapy, or other medications, potentially alleviating pain or preventing fractures. Additionally, it is the primary approach for addressing solitary plasmacytomas.
The primary radiation therapy for multiple Multiple Myeloma or solitary plasmacytoma is external beam radiation therapy, where a machine outside the body directs radiation at the cancer. Radiation sessions are similar to diagnostic X-rays but longer, typically spanning several weeks.
Surgery is generally not considered a primary treatment for multiple Multiple Myeloma. Multiple Multiple Myeloma is a systemic cancer that affects the bone marrow and multiple bones throughout the body. As a result, surgical removal of the affected bone or tumour is not a standard treatment option for this disease.
However, there are certain situations where surgery may play a role in the overall management of Multiple Myeloma:
Targeted therapy for multiple Multiple Myeloma is designed to specifically target certain molecules or pathways involved in cancer cell growth and survival. Some common side effects of targeted therapy for Multiple Myeloma may include:
Since immunotherapy works by stimulating the body’s immune system, the side effects are generally different from those of traditional chemotherapy.
Common side effects of immunotherapy for Multiple Myeloma may include:
Chemotherapy for multiple Multiple Myeloma can have side effects as it affects both cancerous and healthy rapidly dividing cells in the body. The specific side effects experienced can vary depending on the type of chemotherapy drugs used, the dosage, the individual’s overall health, and how their body reacts to the treatment. Common side effects of chemotherapy for multiple Multiple Myeloma may include:
Radiation therapy for multiple Multiple Myeloma can cause side effects, which vary depending on the location and dose of radiation, as well as individual factors. Common side effects of radiation therapy for multiple Multiple Myeloma may include:
While surgery is not the primary treatment for multiple Multiple Myeloma, it may be utilized in certain situations, such as bone stabilisation or the removal of localised plasmacytomas. The side effects of surgery for multiple Multiple Myeloma can vary depending on the type of surgery performed and the individual’s overall health. Some potential side effects may include:
It is important to remember that Multiple Myeloma can be treated successfully if caught early. If you have any concerns about Multiple Myeloma or notice any changes, do not hesitate to see a healthcare professional for evaluation.
If you suspect that you or your loved one have Multiple Myeloma, it is advisable to get the support you need. Early detection and diagnosis of Multiple Myeloma is key to treating the disease.
Regardless of what stage your Multiple Myeloma may be at, you should schedule an appointment to see an oncologist specialising in Multiple Myeloma as soon as possible. With the speed of developments in Multiple Myeloma diagnosis and treatment, novel emerging treatment options could be explored by your medical oncologist.
Our cancer specialists at OncoCare specialise in treating late stage and advanced stages of Multiple Myeloma, as well as earlier stages of the disease.
As the cancerous plasma cells accumulate and spread, they can cause several complications, including:
Common symptoms of Multiple Myeloma may include bone pain, fatigue, recurrent infections, weakness, unexplained weight loss, and kidney problems.
Multiple Multiple Myeloma is considered a complex and heterogeneous disease, meaning it can vary significantly from one individual to another in terms of symptoms, progression, and response to treatment.
In Singapore, Multiple Myeloma is among the top ten most common cancers, most found in elderly individuals. The exact reasons why multiple Multiple Myeloma is more prevalent in the elderly are not entirely clear, but it may be associated with age-related changes in the immune system and the accumulation of genetic mutations over time. Globally, Multiple Myeloma accounts for approximately 1% of all cancers and around 10% of haematological (blood-related) malignancies.
Senior Consultant, Medical Oncologist
MBBS (Singapore) – ABIM Int. Med (USA) – ABIM Med Onc(USA) – FAMS (Medical Oncology)
Dr. Tay has been recognised as one of the top cancer doctors doing research. He was awarded the prestigious center grant by the National Medical Research Council of Singapore. He actively collaborates with other leading Asian researchers based in Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong and USA. Dr Tay has published his findings in numerous journals, including Nature Genetics, the Journal of Clinical Oncology, The Lancet Hematology, American Journal of Medicine, Leukemia & Lymphoma and Seminars in Hematology.
Dr Tay’s subspecialty interest is in women related cancers such as breast cancers & gynaecological cancers, melanoma, brain cancers, soft tissue & bone sarcomas and also hematological malignancies such as lymphoma, multiple myeloma and leukemia.
Senior Consultant, Medical Oncologist
MBBS (Delhi) – American Board Certified (Int Med) – American Board Certified (Hematology)
American Board Certified (Med Oncology)
Before joining OncoCare Cancer Centre at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, Singapore, Dr Akhil Chopra was a Senior Consultant in Medical Oncology at Johns Hopkins Singapore, Tan Tock Seng Hospital and Adjunct Associate Professor at Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine.
Dr Chopra has experience treating multiple cancer types including breast cancer, lung cancer, cancers of stomach, colon, rectum, liver, prostate, kidney, testicular and bladder, gynaecological cancers such as ovarian and uterine/cervical cancers; as well as Sarcomas and chronic leukaemia’s/multiple Multiple Myeloma. Besides his clinical and research work, he has been involved in teaching medical students from the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine as well as medical residents and students from Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore in USA.
Cancer Specialities: breast cancer, lung cancer, cancers of stomach, colon, rectum, liver, prostate, kidney, testicular and bladder, gynaecological cancers such as ovarian and uterine/cervical cancers.
Multiple Myeloma, also known as multiple Multiple Myeloma, is a type of cancer that originates in plasma cells, which are a type of white blood cell responsible for producing antibodies to help the body fight infections. In Multiple Myeloma, these plasma cells become abnormal and multiply uncontrollably, crowding out healthy blood cells in the bone marrow.
As the cancerous plasma cells accumulate and spread, they can cause several complications, including:
Common symptoms of Multiple Myeloma may include bone pain, fatigue, recurrent infections, weakness, unexplained weight loss, and kidney problems.
Multiple Multiple Myeloma is considered a complex and heterogeneous disease, meaning it can vary significantly from one individual to another in terms of symptoms, progression, and response to treatment.
In Singapore, Multiple Myeloma is among the top ten most common cancers, most found in elderly individuals. The exact reasons why multiple Multiple Myeloma is more prevalent in the elderly are not entirely clear, but it may be associated with age-related changes in the immune system and the accumulation of genetic mutations over time. Globally, Multiple Myeloma accounts for approximately 1% of all cancers and around 10% of haematological (blood-related) malignancies.
The most common symptoms of multiple Multiple Myeloma can vary from person to person, and some individuals may not experience any symptoms in the early stages of the disease. When symptoms do occur, they can be vague and similar to other conditions, making diagnosis challenging.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can be caused by various other conditions as well, and having one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have multiple Multiple Myeloma. If you are experiencing persistent or concerning symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis. Early detection and diagnosis of multiple Multiple Myeloma can lead to better outcomes and improved management of the disease.
Unlike some other cancers, there are no widely recommended screening tests for the general population to detect multiple Multiple Myeloma early, particularly in individuals who do not have symptoms or known risk factors.
The reason for the lack of routine screening is that multiple Multiple Myeloma is considered a relatively rare cancer, and most cases are diagnosed in older adults with symptoms that prompt medical evaluation. Additionally, the early symptoms of multiple Multiple Myeloma can be vague and similar to other more common conditions, making it challenging to identify the disease through routine screening alone.
It essential to recognize that if you are experiencing symptoms such as persistent bone pain, unexplained weight loss, recurrent infections, or fatigue, you should seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to better outcomes for individuals with multiple Multiple Myeloma.
If you have specific risk factors for multiple Multiple Myeloma or a family history of the disease, it’s essential to discuss your concerns with a healthcare professional. They can evaluate your individual risk and determine if any additional screening or monitoring is necessary based on your medical history and other factors. Regular check-ups and age-appropriate health screenings are still essential to monitor overall health and identify any potential health issues early on.
Diagnosing multiple Multiple Myeloma involves a series of tests and evaluations.
Once all the diagnostic tests are completed and the results are analysed, the healthcare team will evaluate the findings to make a definitive diagnosis of multiple Multiple Myeloma. If the diagnosis is confirmed, further staging and evaluation will be conducted to determine the disease’s extent and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to the individual’s needs and condition.
The exact causes of multiple Multiple Myeloma are not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The disease develops when plasma cells, a type of white blood cell responsible for producing antibodies, become cancerous and grow uncontrollably.
Some of the known risk factors for multiple Multiple Myeloma include:
It’s essential to note that having one or more risk factors does not guarantee that an individual will develop multiple Multiple Myelomas. Many people with Multiple Myeloma have no known risk factors, and not everyone with risk factors will develop the disease.
Since the exact cause of Multiple Myeloma remains unclear, it is challenging to prevent the disease. However, leading a healthy lifestyle, maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals, and seeking regular medical check-ups can help promote overall well-being and may reduce the risk of certain cancers, including multiple Multiple Myeloma.
Multiple Multiple Myeloma is a complex disease with different subtypes and variations based on various factors. The main types of Multiple Myelomas include:
Each subtype of Multiple Myeloma can have unique characteristics, clinical features, and treatment considerations. Accurate classification is crucial for determining the most appropriate treatment approach for an individual with multiple Multiple Myeloma. Proper diagnosis and staging are essential for developing a personalized treatment plan and providing the best possible care for patients with Multiple Myeloma.
Multiple Multiple Myeloma is staged to assess the extent and severity of the disease, which helps guide treatment decisions and predict outcomes. The staging system commonly used for multiple Multiple Myeloma is the Revised International Staging System (R-ISS). The R-ISS considers three main factors:
This is a protein found on the surface of many cells in the body. High levels of beta-2 microglobulin in the blood indicate more extensive disease.
Albumin is a protein made by the liver. Low levels of albumin in the blood can indicate poorer overall health and may be associated with more advanced Multiple Myeloma.
Genetic changes in Multiple Myeloma cells can affect disease behaviour and response to treatment. The presence of specific chromosomal abnormalities is considered in the staging.
Based on these factors, multiple Multiple Myeloma is categorized into three stages:
: This stage includes patients with low beta-2 microglobulin levels and normal albumin levels. There are no high-risk cytogenetic abnormalities.
The R-ISS staging system helps oncologists assess the prognosis and tailor treatment plans for patients with multiple Multiple Myeloma. Additionally, other factors, such as the patient’s age, overall health, and response to treatment, are also considered in determining the best approach for managing the disease.
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