In this Article

• What is multiple myeloma?
• What are the risk factors for multiple myeloma?
• What are the symptoms of multiple myeloma?
• How is multiple myeloma diagnosed?
• How is multiple myeloma treated?
• Methods of treatment
• What are the side effects of treatment for multiple myeloma?
• What supportive care can patients with multiple myeloma require?
• What happens after treatment for multiple myeloma?
• What support is available for cancer patients?
• What other resources are available to multiple myeloma patients?
• Multiple Myeloma At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Multiple Myeloma - Symptoms At Onset Of Disease
• Multiple Myeloma Glossary
• Multiple Myeloma Index

National Cancer Institute information resources

You may want more information for yourself, your family, and your doctor. The following National Cancer Institute (NCI) services are available to help you.

Telephone

Cancer Information Service (CIS) The CIS provides accurate, up-to-date information on cancer to patients and their families, health professionals, and the general public. Information Specialists translate the latest scientific information into understandable language and respond in English, Spanish, or on TTY equipment. Calls to the CIS are free.

Telephone: 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237) TTY: 1-800-332-8615

Internet

The NCI's Web site (http://www.cancer.gov) provides information from numerous NCI sources. It offers current information on cancer prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, genetics, supportive care, and ongoing clinical trials. It has information about NCI's research programs and funding opportunities, cancer statistics, and the Institute itself. Information Specialists provide live, online assistance through LiveHelp.

Multiple Myeloma At A Glance

• Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow.
• Certain risk factors increase the chances of a person developing multiple myeloma.
• Symptoms of multiple myeloma vary depending on how advanced the disease is.
• Diagnosis of multiple myeloma is supported by findings of the medical history and examination, blood, urine and x-ray tests, and confirmed with a bone marrow aspiration and/or biopsy.
• Treatment of multiple myeloma depends on the patient's symptoms, extent of the disease, as well as the age and health of the patient.

Source: National Institues of Health, National Cancer Institute, www.cancer.gov

Multiple Myeloma - Symptoms At Onset Of Disease

The MedicineNet physician editors ask:

The symptoms of multiple myeloma can vary greatly from patient to patient. What were your symptoms at the onset of your disease?

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