Daniel Auclair, MD, Chief Scientific Officer of the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF), talks about what physicians should know about multiple myeloma.
Multiple myeloma is a rare blood cancer associated with uncontrolled growth of plasma cells. Abnormal plasma cells – also known as myeloma cells – interfere with the production of healthy blood cells in the bone marrow. Myeloma cells also produce inactive clones of abnormal antibodies that may negatively affect the bones and kidneys. Symptoms of multiple myeloma may include: bone pain (particularly in the chest and spine), frequent infections, weakness or numbness in the legs, fatigue, confusion, excessive thirst, and constipation. While the disease is treatable, relapses are common and some patients are refractory to first line treatment.
As Dr. Auclair explains that while many treatment options have been approved for multiple myeloma, not all physicians are up to date with multiple myeloma research. For example, minimal residual disease (MRD) has been approved by the FDA as a biomarker for multiple myeloma; however, Dr. Auclair is sure many doctors are unfamiliar with it at this time. Therefore, keeping doctors aware of the newest technologies, approaches, and treatment options for multiple myeloma is of great importance.
To learn more about multiple myeloma and other rare cancers, visit checkrare.com/diseases/cancers/
