What are the characteristics of multiple myeloma?

Generally, multiple myeloma is a malignant proliferative disorder of plasma cells, primarily characterized by skeletal system damage, abnormal blood indicators, reduced immune function, tendency toward kidney injury, and abnormal proliferation of plasma cells in the bone marrow. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Skeletal System Damage: Tumor cells secrete substances that destroy bone tissue, leading to pain in multiple sites—commonly the lumbar-sacral region, thoracic cage, and limbs. Initially, the pain is often intermittent and dull, but it may progress to persistent severe pain as the disease advances. Pathological fractures are also common.

2. Abnormal Blood Indicators: Patients frequently develop anemia, manifested by decreased red blood cell count and hemoglobin concentration, accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue and pallor. Some patients may have reduced platelet counts, which can lead to skin bruising or gum bleeding.

3. Reduced Immune Function: Normal plasma cell function is suppressed, impairing effective antibody production. This leads to weakened immune defenses, making patients prone to recurrent infections such as respiratory tract and urinary tract infections. Infections may be more severe and harder to recover from.

4. Kidney Injury Tendency: Abnormal immunoglobulins and their metabolic byproducts deposit in the kidneys, damaging renal function. Early stages may show no obvious symptoms, but as the disease progresses, patients may experience reduced urine output and increased foaming in urine. In severe cases, this can advance to renal failure, impairing the body's ability to excrete metabolic waste.

5. Abnormal Proliferation of Plasma Cells in Bone Marrow: Bone marrow examination reveals a significantly increased proportion of plasma cells. Normally, plasma cells account for less than 10% of bone marrow cells, whereas in multiple myeloma patients, this percentage exceeds 10%. These plasma cells exhibit abnormal morphology, lose their normal antibody-secreting function, and interfere with normal hematopoiesis in the bone marrow.

Patients are advised to avoid strenuous exercise to prevent bone injuries and maintain good personal hygiene to reduce infection risk. A diet low in salt with high-quality protein intake is recommended to reduce the burden on the kidneys. Additionally, patients should strictly follow medical advice regarding chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and other treatments, and undergo regular follow-up tests—including bone marrow exams, blood tests, and kidney function assessments—to monitor disease progression.