multiple myeloma (redirected from Mulitple myeloma)

multiple myeloma

A malignant proliferation of abnormal plasma cells that populate the marrow-containing bones of the body. The affected plasma cells produce myeloma protein, a monoclonal antibody that replaces normal antibodies in the blood, thereby increasing susceptibility to infection and renal failure. Symptoms include pain, anemia, weakness, infection, a tendency to hemorrhage, shortness of breath, kidney insufficiency, bone fractures, and neurological symptoms. It is considered a progressive and incurable disease; treatments with thalidomide, bone-marrow transplantation, and high-dose chemotherapy may extend life span, although success rates are variable.

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multiple myeloma [′məl·tə·pəl ‚mī·ə′lō·mə]

(medicine)

A primary bone malignancy characterized by diffuse osteoporosis, anemia, hyperglobulinemia, and other clinical features. Also known as Kahler's disease.