Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a dysfunction in B-cell production in the bone marrow. It causes tumors to grow in the bone tissue, which erode the bone and can cause significant amounts of pain in the process.

As the tissue becomes weakened, more impotent B-cell production will ocurr, leading to a reduction in immune function.

Common features can be remembered by the mnemonic CRAB: raised calcium, renal impairment, anemia, and bone lesions. Patients often present with bone pain (especially in the back and ribs), pathological fractures, fatigue, recurrent infections, and excessive bleeding or bruising.