Can multiple myeloma run in families?
Family history Multiple myeloma seems to run in some families. Someone who has a sibling or parent with myeloma is more likely to get it than someone who does not have this family history. Still, most patients have no affected relatives, so this accounts for only a small number of cases.
Is multiple myeloma genetically inherited?
This condition is generally not inherited but arises from somatic mutations in plasma cells. An increased risk of developing multiple myeloma seems to run in some families, but the inheritance pattern is unknown.
What is the root cause of multiple myeloma?
The cause of multiple myeloma is unknown. Though there are no known risk factors for multiple myeloma, researchers suggest that genetic abnormalities, such as c-Myc genes or environmental exposures, may play a role.
What are the main leading causes of multiple myeloma?
Common Causes
- The exact cause of multiple myeloma is unknown.
- Research scientists hypothesize that there are probably several causes that contribute.
- Some of the bone marrow abnormalities involve dendritic cells—they may cause plasma cells to grow and develop abnormally, which may contribute to plasma cell tumors.
Who is most at risk for multiple myeloma?
Age. You’re at a higher risk for multiple myeloma if you’re over age 45. Most people who get this cancer are over age 65. The reason isn’t clear, but the chance of getting most types of cancer gets higher as you age.
Is dizziness a symptom of multiple myeloma?
In some patients, large amounts of myeloma protein can cause the blood to “thicken.” This thickening is called hyperviscosity. and it can slow blood flow to the brain and cause confusion, dizziness, and stroke-like symptoms. Patients with these symptoms should call their doctor immediately.
Does stress cause myeloma?
Stress can be a very destructive force when it comes to myeloma. Stress really disrupts the immune system and myeloma is a cancer of the immune system. In addition, the stress hormone noradrenaline (the “flight” hormone, versus adrenaline, the “fight” hormone) can actually trigger cancer cell growth directly.
How long can you have myeloma without knowing?
Some people have multiple myeloma for months or years before they even know they’re sick. This earliest phase is called smoldering multiple myeloma. When you have it, you won’t have any symptoms, but your test results will show: At least 10% to 59% of your bone marrow is made up of cancerous plasma cells.
How deadly is multiple myeloma?
Multiple myeloma used to be considered extremely deadly; today many people live with it as little more than a chronic condition. One reason it remains deadly is because many patients can’t get optimal therapy as a consequence of having existing illnesses when diagnosed with cancer.
What is the primary cause of multiple myeloma?
The exact cause of multiple myeloma is unknown . However, what researchers do know about multiple myeloma is the fact that the condition starts with the abnormal growth of a plasma cell in the bone marrow. Next, the abnormal cell begins to multiply rapidly. 1
Can multiple myeloma become a curable disease?
While multiple myeloma is not curable, treatment can help extend a person’s life. There is no cure for multiple myeloma. Treatment for multiple myeloma can only reduce the severity of its symptoms and extend the patient’s survival by a few months or two to three years.
Is smoldering myeloma considered Stage 1 myeloma?
Smoldering myeloma typically uses a “watch and wait” approach, which holds off on treatment until the disease progresses, with close monitoring of diagnostic tests. Stage I (stage 1 multiple myeloma): Tests indicate there are a relatively small number of myeloma cells .