Myeloma

Myeloma is a type of blood cancer that develops from plasma cells made in the bone marrow. Bone marrow is the spongy tissue found inside the inner part of some of our large bones.

Myeloma doesn't always cause symptoms in its early stages. It might be picked up on a routine blood test. The main symptoms include bone pain in the back, hips and ribs and tiredness.

You usually start by seeing your GP. They might refer you to a specialist and organise tests.

Survival depends on many different factors including how advanced your myeloma is when you are diagnosed, your age and your general fitness.

The main treatments for myeloma include targeted cancer drugs, chemotherapy and steroids.

There are different types of myeloma. Your type is named after the abnormal immunoglobulin (paraprotein) made by the myeloma cells.

The stage of your myeloma tells your doctor how it is affecting you and how it might develop. Doctors use the stage of your myeloma to help them decide on the best treatment for you.

Researchers around the world are looking at treatments for myeloma.

Practical and emotional support is available to help you cope with myeloma.

We don't know what causes most cases of myeloma. There are some known risk factors. Even if you have one or more risk factors, it does not mean that you will definitely get myeloma.