An analysis of the characteristics of Multiple Myeloma: literature review

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the characteristics of Multiple Myeloma (MM). Bibliographic Review: MM is a neoplasm of the hematopoietic system, classified as plasma cell neoplasm. MM is characterized by an abnormal proliferation of clonal and terminally differentiated B lymphocytes. Malignant cells are mainly present in the bone marrow, but they can also be registered in peripheral blood and other extramedullary sites. The clinical presentation is bone pain, anemia, hypercalcemia, and renal failure. MM is preceded by an asymptomatic precursor phase, Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS), which is characterized by an increase in the number of clonal plasma cells in the bone marrow without target organ damage or clinical signs associated with plasma cell proliferation. Final considerations: MM is the second leading cause of hematologic malignancy. It is a mature B-cell cancer defined by the presence of ≥10% clonal plasma cells in the bone marrow (or plasmacytoma confirmed by bone marrow biopsy). In addition, it must be evidenced by target organ damage such as hypercalcemia, renal failure, anemia, and bone lesions. It is a disease characteristic of patients over 60 years of age, which affects more males and is most often diagnosed in more advanced stages. This causes a reduction in the quality of life, mainly due to bone pain and fatigue.