Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the bone marrow that arises from certain cells of the immune system. This page gives you a first, briefly explained overview.

What is multiple myeloma?

Multiple myeloma develops from abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow. These cells multiply uncontrollably and can affect normal blood formation as well as the bones.

Common symptoms

Possible signs can include:

• Bone pain, often in the back or ribs
• Persistent tiredness and paleness
• Increased susceptibility to infections
• Kidney or bone problems

These complaints can also have other causes. If symptoms persist, you should seek medical advice.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the stage of the disease and your individual situation. General treatment approaches include drug therapies, immunotherapies, supportive measures for the bones and, in suitable cases, a stem cell transplant. Your treatment plan is set individually by your care team.

Why clinical trials are important

Clinical trials help to further develop and improve treatments. In recent years they have contributed to many new treatment approaches in multiple myeloma. Current clinical trials for this disease are listed below.