Overview
What is Multiple Myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is a blood cancer that originates in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell produced in the bone marrow. Normally, healthy plasma cells produce antibodies to help the body fight infections. In multiple myeloma, abnormal plasma cells multiply rapidly and gather in the bone marrow, disrupting the production of normal blood cells and potentially harming the bones, kidneys, and immune system.
At Dr. KM Cherian Institute of Medical Sciences, our Department of Oncology provides the best multiple myeloma treatment in Kerala. Our multidisciplinary approach combines accurate diagnosis, personalised treatment planning, supportive care, and continuous monitoring to help control the disease, manage complications, and improve patients’ quality of life.
Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma may develop gradually, and some patients may have few or no symptoms during the early stages. Common symptoms and complications can include:
- Ongoing bone pain, especially in the back, ribs, or hips
- Bones that are weak or fragile, leading to unexplained fractures
- Persistent fatigue or weakness caused by anaemia
- Recurrent infections occurring frequently
- Elevated blood calcium levels
- Excessive thirst or urination
- Kidney issues or decreased kidney function
- Unexplained weight loss
- Numbness or weakness in arms or legs
These symptoms may be linked to various other medical conditions. Accurate assessment and diagnostic tests are essential to identify their true cause.
Causes & Risk Factors of Multiple Myeloma
The exact cause of multiple myeloma is not always known. The disease begins when abnormal plasma cells develop in the bone marrow and multiply excessively.
Factors associated with an increased risk of multiple myeloma include:
- Increasing age – Multiple myeloma is more commonly diagnosed in older adults.
- Family history – Having a close relative with multiple myeloma may increase the risk.
- Certain plasma cell disorders – Conditions involving abnormal plasma cells can sometimes progress to multiple myeloma.
- Sex – Multiple myeloma occurs somewhat more frequently in men than women.
Having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean that a person will develop multiple myeloma.
Treatment
At Dr. KM Cherian Institute of Medical Sciences, the treatment for multiple myeloma is tailored based on the patient’s disease features, symptoms, age, overall health, and previous treatment response.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy employs anti-cancer drugs to eliminate or manage quickly dividing myeloma cells. The specific medicines used may vary and are often combined based on the patient’s condition and treatment needs.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted medicines focus on specific processes essential for myeloma cell growth and survival. They can be administered alone or alongside other anti-myeloma treatments.
Immunotherapy
Some treatments enhance the immune system’s ability to recognize and target myeloma cells more efficiently. The appropriateness of immunotherapy varies based on each patient’s specific disease features and their treatment history.
Steroid Therapy
Corticosteroids are often included in multiple myeloma treatment plans since they assist in destroying myeloma cells and enhance the efficacy of other therapies.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy might be advised for certain patients to treat localized myeloma, especially if bone lesions lead to considerable pain or other issues.
Supportive Care
Since multiple myeloma can impact the bones, kidneys, blood cells, and immune system, supportive care is a crucial aspect of treatment. This involves addressing anemia, infections, bone issues, pain, kidney concerns, and other side effects caused by the disease or its treatment.
Our oncology team regularly evaluates treatment response and adjusts the care plan according to each patient’s progress.
Best Multiple Myeloma Treatment Specialists in Kerala
Our Doctors
Our Department of Oncology comprises skilled specialists who diagnose and treat various cancers, including blood cancers like multiple myeloma. At Dr. KM Cherian Institute of Medical Sciences, our oncology team works alongside specialists from other departments, as needed, to manage the various complications associated with multiple myeloma. This multidisciplinary approach helps provide coordinated treatment and supportive care throughout the patient’s cancer journey.
Dr. M. V. Pillai
Dr. Sarah J. Easaw
Dr. Nidhun V. Ashok
Dr. John Thomas
Dr. Boaz Vincent
Dr. Gurukeerthi. B
FAQ
Yes. Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow. These abnormal cells multiply and can disrupt the production of healthy blood cells, also impacting the bones, kidneys, and immune system.
Symptoms can differ, and some patients might not show obvious signs at first. Possible indicators include bone pain, fatigue, repeated infections, anemia, kidney issues, and unexplained fractures.
Diagnosis may include blood tests, urine tests, imaging procedures, and bone marrow examination. These tests assist doctors in detecting abnormal plasma cells and determining the disease’s severity.
Yes. Several treatments can control multiple myeloma, reduce symptoms, manage complications, and help patients achieve periods of remission. The treatment approach varies according to the individual patient and characteristics of the disease.
Yes, it can. Myeloma cells disrupt normal bone maintenance, leading to weakened bones, bone pain, and a higher fracture risk. Proper treatment and supportive care can help control these issues.
Best Multiple Myeloma Treatment Hospital in Kerala
Why Choose Dr. KMC Hospital for Multiple Myeloma Treatment?
Dr. KM Cherian Institute of Medical Sciences offers comprehensive and the best multiple myeloma treatment in Kerala through a multidisciplinary oncology approach. Our team focuses on accurate diagnosis, personalised treatment, management of disease-related complications, and continuous monitoring throughout treatment.
Choosing Dr. KMC Hospital, Chengannur, provides patients with access to comprehensive oncology care supported by advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities. From initial evaluation and treatment planning to supportive care and long-term follow-up, our focus is on controlling the disease, reducing complications, and helping patients maintain the best possible quality of life.
Enquiry
Dr. KM Cherian Institute of Medical Sciences offers the best multiple myeloma treatment in Kerala with personalised oncology care, targeted therapy, chemotherapy and supportive care.