S Y M P T O M S & D I A G N O S I S 43

S y m p t o m s o f M u l t i p l e M y e l o m a

A number of signs or symptoms related to multiple myeloma, such as fractures, bone

pain, fatigue, swelling and weakness, may lead a patient to seek medical advice.[ ]

OSTEOCLAST

CALCIUM

MYELOMA CELL

M PROTEIN

[SPINE] Normally, bone is remodeled

through the actions of osteoclasts, which

break down old bone, and osteoblasts, which

produce new bone. Myeloma cells disrupt

this process by producing a substance that

accelerates osteoclasts to break down

bone. Thus, patients with multiple myeloma

are susceptible to weak bones that can

fracture easily.

[KIDNEYS] Typically, the kidneys

dispose of excess fluids and waste

through urine. Myeloma cells can produce

high levels of an abnormal protein, called

M protein, that build up in the kidneys

and cause injury. As a result, the kidneys

may be unable to excrete excess salt,

fluids and body waste, causing swelling

and metabolic abnormalities.

BONE DAMAGE

M PROTEIN BUILDUP

SPINE >

KIDNEY>

ILLUSTRATION BY PAM CURRYORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN CURE’S ILLUSTRATED GUIDE SECOND EDITION, 2013©CURE Media Group For patient handouts only