Description
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant haematological disease characterised by a clonal population of plasma cells in the bone marrow. The disease occurs predominantly in the elderly and results in lytic bone lesions, blood cytopenias and the production of monoclonal immunoglobulin heavy and light chains. MM is an incurable condition and therefore treatment is reserved for symptomatic patients or those with documented bone lesions. The international staging system (ISS) offers a prediction of prognosis at diagnosis based on albumin and B2 microglobulin levels. Treatment involves a spectrum of health care professionals. Oral and intravenous chemotherapy, radiotherapy, stem cell transplantation and other novel therapies are all useful modes of treatment.
