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Antibodies in the Blood Revolution: How Multiple Myeloma Affects Your Immune System
Multiple Myeloma (MM) is a cancer that affects plasma cells, the white blood cells normally responsible for producing the antibodies suspended in the blood that protect our immune systems. Although there may be no obvious symptoms in the early stages, as the disease progresses, patients may experience symptoms such as bone pain, anemia, renal insufficiency, and infection. Combining these issues makes understanding multiple myeloma even more important.
"The complexity of multiple myeloma lies in its diverse symptoms, and its impact on the immune system cannot be underestimated."
Pathology and mechanism of multiple myeloma
The cause of multiple myeloma remains unknown and may involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Risk factors include obesity, radiation exposure, family medical history, and age. In some occupations, exposure to some chemicals, such as aromatic solvents, may increase the risk of multiple myeloma.
Research indicates that nearly all cases of multiple myeloma originate from previously diagnosed monoclonal gamma disease (MGUS). MGUS gradually evolves into multiple myeloma, passing through a preliminary stage called occultemia. When abnormal plasma cells produce abnormal antibodies in large quantities, it can lead to kidney function problems and an abnormal increase in blood viscosity. These phenomena will affect the patient's quality of life.
Challenges in diagnosis and treatment
Multiple myeloma is usually detected through a blood or urine test for abnormal antibody proteins, and often requires a bone marrow biopsy to find the cancerous plasma cells. In clinical practice, a variety of treatment options are available, such as steroids, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplantation, but most patients are still considered incurable.
"In the future, CAR-T cell therapy may become a breakthrough treatment option."
The impact of multiple myeloma on the immune system
As multiple myeloma progresses, patients' immune systems become compromised, making them less resistant to infection. Common types of infections include pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and sepsis, and these infections often break out within a few months of starting a new treatment. About 20 to 50 percent of people with multiple myeloma die from the infection within six months of diagnosis.
Looking to the future
With the advancement of treatment technology, the prognosis of multiple myeloma has improved to a certain extent. According to recent data, about 60% of patients survive five or more years after diagnosis, and about 34% live ten years or more. The data mean the outlook has improved for newly diagnosed patients.
"Multiple myeloma is not a doomsday sentence, but a disease that requires systematic management and continuous treatment."
Multiple myeloma makes us realize that antibodies in the blood are not just tools of immune defense. Their abnormal behavior can trigger a health revolution that affects overall health. Are you prepared to face the hidden dangers of your health and choose the right protection for your immune system?
