Multiple myeloma is a relatively rare blood cancer and the most common cancer affecting the bone marrow. It occurs when one of the white blood cells, called plasma cells, grows in an abnormal and uncontrolled manner. Plasma cells are part of our immune system and produce antibodies that fight against infections. When too many abnormal plasma cells are present in the bone marrow, it can reduce the space for healthy blood cells and weaken the bones. Cancerous plasma cells produce abnormal antibodies called M-proteins that can, over time, cause problems in the bone, kidney and other body parts.
Multiple myeloma is usually seen in people above the age of 65, and men are more likely to develop this cancer than women. Exposure to chemicals such as benzene, insecticide, radiation, and personal history of disorders such as MGUS (Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance) can increase the risk of developing multiple myeloma. In the early stages of cancer, there are usually no symptoms. As the disease progresses, the symptoms such as bone pain, loss of appetite, fatigue, confusion, infections, nausea, excessive thirst, bone fractures, numbness in the legs, or weight loss.
For most cancer types, a biopsy is a sure way to confirm the presence of cancer. Bone marrow biopsy is performed for multiple myeloma in which the tissue samples of bone marrow are collected and analyzed in the laboratory. Urine tests, blood tests, and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs can help the health care professional know much about your multiple myeloma. When a person with multiple myeloma has no symptoms or signs or cancer at an early stage may not need treatment. The doctor usually performs regular tests to assess the disease progression in such cases.
This cancer has no cure, but it is a very treatable disorder. One recent statistics states that the 5-year survival rate for multiple myeloma is 53.9%, meaning that 54 out of 100 patients can live for 5 years following the diagnosis. Treatment options help manage symptoms and help reduce the recurrence of cancer. Treatment typically involves a combination of medicines such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or corticosteroids. Bone marrow transplantation may be an option for some people, and the doctor will recommend it after considering factors such as the general health of the patient, age, risk of disease progression, etc. Radiation therapy may be suggested under certain circumstances.
Pomalidomide is an immunomodulating medicine used to treat multiple myeloma in patients who have received two prior treatments, and their disorder has become worse during that treatment or after finishing the treatment. This is an oral medication usually given along with steroid medicine. Pomalidomide stimulates your immune system to attack the cancer cells. Also, it stops the formation of blood vessels that supply cancer cells. Pomalid 1mg Capsule is one of the products containing the molecule pomalidomide, and your doctor may prescribe Pomalid 1mg Capsule if you have multiple myeloma.
People taking this medication should not donate blood during the treatment and 7 days after the treatment ends. This drug can cause harm to the unborn baby. So, both men and women should use effective birth control for at least four weeks before beginning the treatment, during the treatment, and for at least four weeks after the last dose.
