Multiple Myeloma

Hematology

Overview

Definition

Malignancy of plasma cells in the bone marrow.

Epidemiology

Most common primary bone cancer in adults > 50.

Etiology & Risk Factors

  • Clonal proliferation of malignant plasma cells producing monoclonal immunoglobulins

Clinical Symptoms

  • CRAB criteria: HyperCalcemia, Renal involvement, Anemia, Bone lytic lesions (back pain)

Clinical Approach

Diagnosis

  • Serum Protein Electrophoresis (M-spike, IgG or IgA)
  • Urine Bence Jones proteins
  • Bone marrow biopsy (>10% clonal plasma cells)

Management

  • Proteasome inhibitors (Bortezomib)
  • Immunomodulators (Lenalidomide)
  • Dexamethasone
  • Autologous Stem Cell Transplant

Complications

  • Pathologic fractures
  • Renal failure
  • Amyloidosis
  • Infections