Myeloma

Houston Methodist experts are among the best worldwide in the diagnosis and treatment of myeloma and other blood cancers. Our team provides the same high level of myeloma care at eight cancer center locations across the Greater Houston area. 

Myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells, which are white blood cells that fight infections. Myeloma cells weaken your body’s immune system leaving you vulnerable to infection. As myeloma cells multiply, they also impact red blood cells and can damage the kidneys and bones.  

Because myeloma occurs in many places in the bone marrow, it is often called multiple myeloma. 

Myeloma is part of a group of plasma cell diseases, ranging from precancerous to cancerous. These include: 

 

• Active multiple myeloma – This is also called symptomatic myeloma due to the presence of myeloma symptoms.  
• Amyloidosis – There are many subtypes of amyloidosis, but one subtype associated with plasma cell disease is called light chain (AL) amyloidosis. This can be seen with or without multiple myeloma and is characterized by abnormal protein deposits throughout the body.  
• Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS): This is a precancerous condition characterized by abnormal labs and without symptoms. This can progress to multiple myeloma and requires clinical surveillance. 
• Smoldering (indolent) multiple myeloma – This is also called asymptomatic myeloma due to an absence of myeloma symptoms. This can progress to multiple myeloma and requires clinical surveillance. 

Why Choose Houston Methodist for Blood Cancer

Our multidisciplinary team of experts provides innovative, compassionate myeloma care. Oncology nurse navigators guide you through every stage of your care — from diagnosis through treatment.  

Hematologists, oncologists and other specialists work together to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. We use advanced diagnostics and treatment options — including molecular testing, immunotherapy and stem cell transplant — to stop your cancer as quickly and safely as possible. 

Our pioneering research and our clinical trials result in new therapies designed to stop your cancer’s growth. Houston Methodist patients may access clinical trials offering potentially promising treatments not available to the general public.  

Houston Methodist Hospital is nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report for cancer. In addition, we are considered high performing by U.S. News & World Report for leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma.

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A risk factor is anything that increases your odds of developing myeloma, including genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors. It is important to be aware of your individual risk factors. 

Risk factors vary by the type of myeloma. Common risk factors include: 

 

• Age – The risk of myeloma increases with age, with most cases diagnosed in people over 65. 
• Family history – A family history of myeloma can increase your risk. 
• Gender – Men are slightly more at risk to develop it. 
• Obesity – Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing myeloma. 
• Personal history – Having a history of solitary plasmacytoma (a tumor) of the bone or soft tissue increases your risk. 
• Race – Myeloma is more common in African Americans than in other races. 
• Sex – Myeloma is more common in men than in women. 

 

One or more risk factors do not guarantee you will develop myeloma. At the same time, few or no risk factors does not mean you will not develop it. 

To discuss your specific risks and prevention tactics, book an appointment with one of our specialists. 

Identify Myeloma Symptoms Sooner

Myeloma occurs when your DNA mutates and begins to tell your cells to grow and multiply in an abnormal way. This change impacts your normal cell production.  

When this happens, you may experience symptoms very similar to other, more common diseases. When you notice a new or persistent symptom, it is important to identify the root cause. 

Myeloma may cause a variety of symptoms due to the proliferation of abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow. Because multiple myeloma often does not have early symptoms, it can be difficult to diagnose in the beginning stages. Common myeloma symptoms include: 

 

• Anemia – A shortage of red blood cells can cause persistent fatigue, weakness and shortness of breath. 
• Bone fractures and bone pain – Myeloma often weakens the bones, leading to fractures and severe bone pain, especially in the spine, ribs and pelvis. 
• Bruising and bleeding – Reduced platelet count can cause easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds and bleeding gums. 
• Frequent infections – Similar to other blood cancers, myeloma can impair the immune system, resulting in frequent and recurrent infections. 
• Hypercalcemia – Elevated calcium levels in the blood can occur due to bone breakdown, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, constipation and confusion. 
• Kidney issues – Myeloma proteins (M proteins) can damage the kidneys, leading to kidney dysfunction or failure. Symptoms may include frequent urination, excessive thirst and swelling in the legs. 
• Nerve damage – Myeloma can lead to peripheral neuropathy, resulting in numbness, tingling or pain in the hands and feet. 

 

The only way to know for sure what is causing a particular symptom is to see your physician. The early detection of myeloma allows for timely intervention and treatment.