Multiple myeloma is classified by stage 1, 2, or 3. In multiple myeloma cases, stage 3 is the terminal stage. This means it’s the most advanced stage of this type of rare cancer. Doctors use the international staging system to determine the stage of the cancer.
What is the average survival rate for multiple myeloma?
The overall 5-year survival rate for people with multiple myeloma is 54%. For the 5% of people who are diagnosed at an early stage, the 5-year survival rate is 75%. If the cancer has spread to a distant part of the body, the 5-year survival rate is 53%. Approximately 95% of cases are diagnosed at this stage.
What is multiple myeloma (myeloma)?
Myeloma, also called multiple myeloma, is a cancer of the plasma cells. Plasma cells are white blood cells that make antibodies that protect us from infection. In myeloma, the cells grow too much, crowding out normal cells in the bone marrow that make red blood cells, platelets, and other white blood cells.
What are plasma cells used for in multiple myeloma?
Overview. Plasma cells help you fight infections by making antibodies that recognize and attack germs. Multiple myeloma causes cancer cells to accumulate in the bone marrow, where they crowd out healthy blood cells. Rather than produce helpful antibodies, the cancer cells produce abnormal proteins that can cause complications.
What are the symptoms of low blood counts in multiple myeloma?
Low blood counts. Shortages of red blood cells, white blood cells, and blood platelets are common in multiple myeloma and might lead to other symptoms. Anemia: A reduced number of red blood cells that can cause weakness, a reduced ability to exercise, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Leukopenia: Too few white blood cells…
What is the connection between multiple myeloma and pneumonia?
Pneumonia is a common and serious infection seen in myeloma patients. Patients with amyloidosis (discussed in What Is Multiple Myeloma?) can have some of the same problems as patients with myeloma, such as kidney problems and nerve damage. They can also have other problems, such as:
