What Is Multiple Myeloma?

Normal Blood Cells Myeloma Cells

Risk Factors

Symptoms

Diagnosis

Staging

Treatment

Getting a Second Opinion Methods of Treatment Anticancer Drug Therapy Stem Cell Transplantation Radiation Therapy

Side Effects of Treatment

Anticancer Drug Therapy Stem Cell Transplantation Radiation Therapy

Supportive Care

Infection Anemia Pain Thinning Bones Too Much Calcium in the Blood Kidney Problems Amyloidosis

Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Nutrition

Follow-up Care

Sources of Support

The Promise of Cancer Research

National Cancer Institute Information Resources

National Cancer Institute Publications

Introduction

This National Cancer Institute (NCI) booklet (NIH Publication No. 04-1575) has important information about multiple myeloma*, cancer that starts in certain white blood cells (plasma cells). You will read about possible causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care. You also will find ideas about how to cope with the disease.

Each year, about 15,000 Americans learn they have multiple myeloma. Scientists are studying this disease to find out more about how it develops. And they are looking at better ways to treat it.

The NCI provides information about cancer, including the publications mentioned in this booklet. You can order these materials by telephone or on the Internet. You can also read them on the Internet and print your own copy.

• Telephone (1-800-4-CANCER): Information Specialists at NCI's Cancer Information Service can answer your questions about cancer. They also can send NCI booklets, fact sheets, and other materials.
• Internet (http://www.cancer.gov): You can use NCI's Web site to find a wide range of up-to-date information. For example, you can find many NCI booklets and fact sheets at http://www.cancer.gov/publications. People in the United States and its territories may use this Web site to order printed copies. This Web site also explains how people outside the United States can mail or fax their requests for NCI booklets.

You can ask questions online and get help right away from Information Specialists through LiveHelp ¹. (Click on the "Need Help?" at http://www.cancer.gov. Then click on "Connect to LiveHelp.")

Multiple myeloma is cancer that begins in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell. To understand multiple myeloma, it is helpful to know about normal blood cells.

Normal Blood Cells

Most blood cells develop from cells in the bone marrow called stem cells. Bone marrow is the soft material in the center of most bones.

Stem cells mature into different types of blood cells. Each type has a special function:

• White blood cells help fight infection. There are several types of white blood cells.
• Red blood cells carry oxygen to tissues throughout the body.
• Platelets help form blood clots that control bleeding.

Plasma cells are white blood cells that make antibodies. Antibodies are part of the immune system. They work with other parts of the immune system to help protect the body from germs and other harmful substances. Each type of plasma cell makes a different antibody.

Normal plasma cells help protect the body from germs and other harmful substances.

Myeloma Cells

Myeloma, like other cancers, begins in cells. Normally, cells grow and divide to form new cells as the body needs them. When cells grow old, they die, and new cells take their place. In cancer, this orderly process goes wrong. New cells form when the body does not need them, and old cells do not die when they should. These extra cells can form a mass of tissue called a growth or tumor.

Myeloma begins when a plasma cell becomes abnormal. The abnormal cell divides to make copies of itself. The new cells divide again and again, making more and more abnormal cells. The abnormal plasma cells are myeloma cells. Myeloma cells make antibodies called M proteins.

In time, myeloma cells collect in the bone marrow. They may crowd out normal blood cells. Myeloma cells also collect in the solid part of the bone. The disease is called "multiple myeloma" because it affects many bones. (If myeloma cells collect in only one bone, the single mass is called a plasmacytoma.)

Multiple myeloma is the most common type of plasma cell tumor. This booklet does not deal with other kinds of plasma cell tumors. The Cancer Information Service (1-800-4-CANCER) can send information about those diseases.

Myeloma cell (abnormal plasma cell) making M proteins.

No one knows the exact causes of multiple myeloma. Doctors can seldom explain why one person develops this disease and another does not. However, we do know that multiple myeloma is not contagious. You cannot "catch" it from another person.

Research has shown that people with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop multiple myeloma. A risk factor is something that may increase the chance of developing a disease.

Studies have found the following risk factors for multiple myeloma:

• Age: Growing older increases the chance of developing multiple myeloma. Most people with myeloma are diagnosed after age 65. This disease is rare in people younger than 40.
• Race: The risk of multiple myeloma is highest among African Americans and lowest among Asian Americans. The reason for the difference between racial groups is not known.
• Personal history of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS): MGUS is a condition in which abnormal plasma cells make a low level of M proteins. MGUS is a benign condition, but it increases the risk of certain cancers, including multiple myeloma.

Scientists are studying other possible risk factors for multiple myeloma. Radiation, pesticides, hair dye, certain viruses, obesity, and diet are under study. But it is not clear that these factors are involved in the development of the disease. Researchers also are studying families in which more than one person has multiple myeloma. However, such families are extremely rare.

Most people who have known risk factors (being older, being African American, or having MGUS) do not get multiple myeloma. On the other hand, most people who do get the disease have no known risk factors. If you think you may be at risk, you should discuss this concern with your doctor.

Common symptoms of multiple myeloma include:

• Bone pain, usually in the back
• Broken bones, usually in the spine
• Feeling weak and very tired
• Feeling very thirsty
• Frequent infections and fevers
• Weight loss
• Nausea or constipation
• Frequent urination

Most often, these symptoms are not due to cancer. Other health problems can cause the same symptoms. Anyone with these symptoms should tell the doctor so that problems can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.

Doctors sometimes find multiple myeloma after a routine blood test. More often, doctors suspect multiple myeloma after an x-ray for a broken bone. Usually though, patients go to the doctor because they are having other symptoms.

To find out whether such problems are from multiple myeloma or some other condition, your doctor may ask about your personal and family medical history and do a physical exam. In addition, your doctor may order some of the following tests and exams:

• Blood tests: The lab checks the level of blood cells and other substances. Myeloma causes a high level of plasma cells and calcium. Most people with myeloma have anemia. Myeloma also causes high levels of certain proteins. The lab checks for M protein, beta-2-microglobulin, and other proteins.
• Urine tests: The lab checks for Bence Jones protein, a type of M protein, in urine. The lab measures the amount of Bence Jones protein in urine collected over a 24-hour period.

If the lab finds a high level of Bence Jones protein in your urine sample, doctors will monitor your kidneys. Bence Jones protein can clog the kidneys and damage them.

• X-rays: You may have x-rays to check for broken or thinning bones.
• Biopsy: The doctor removes tissue to look for cancer cells. A biopsy is the only sure way to know whether myeloma cells are in the bone marrow. The doctor removes some bone marrow from your hipbone or another large bone. Local anesthesia helps reduce the discomfort. A pathologist uses a microscope to check the tissue for cancer cells.

  There are two ways the doctor can obtain bone marrow:

  • Bone marrow aspiration: The doctor uses a thin needle to remove samples of bone marrow.
  • Bone marrow biopsy: The doctor uses a thick needle to remove a small piece of bone and bone marrow.

If the biopsy shows that you have multiple myeloma, your doctor needs to know the extent (stage) of the disease to plan the best treatment. Staging may involve having more tests. You may have blood tests (including beta-2-microglobulin), CT scans, or an MRI of your bones.

Doctors may describe the disease as Stage I, Stage II, or Stage III. Higher numbers mean that a larger number of myeloma cells are in the body. The stage also takes into account whether the cancer is causing problems with your bones or kidneys.

Many people with multiple myeloma want to take an active part in making decisions about their medical care. It is natural to want to learn all you can about your disease and your treatment choices. However, shock and stress after the diagnosis can make it hard to think of everything you want to ask the doctor. It often helps to make a list of questions before an appointment.

To help remember what the doctor says, you may take notes or ask whether you may use a tape recorder. You may also want to have a family member or friend with you when you talk to the doctor - to take part in the discussion, to take notes, or just to listen.

You do not need to ask all your questions at once. You will have other chances to ask your doctor to explain things that are not clear and to ask for more information.

Your doctor may refer you to a specialist, or you may ask for a referral. Specialists who treat multiple myeloma include medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and hematologists.

Getting a Second Opinion

Before starting treatment, you might want a second opinion about the diagnosis and treatment plan. Many insurance companies cover a second opinion if you or your doctor requests it. It may take some time and effort to gather medical records and arrange to see another doctor. Usually it is not a problem to take several weeks to get a second opinion. In most cases, the delay in starting treatment will not make treatment less effective. To make sure, you should discuss this delay with your doctor. Some people with multiple myeloma need treatment right away.

There are a number of ways to find a doctor for a second opinion:

• Your doctor may refer you to one or more specialists. At cancer centers, several specialists often work together as a team.
• The NCI's Cancer Information Service, at 1-800-4-CANCER, can tell you about nearby treatment centers. Information Specialists also can provide online assistance through LiveHelp ¹ at http://www.cancer.gov.
• A local or state medical society, a nearby hospital, or a medical school can usually provide the names of specialists in your area.
• The American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) has a list of doctors who have had training and passed exams in their specialty. You can find this list in the Official ABMS Directory of Board Certified Medical Specialists. This Directory is in most public libraries. Or you can look up doctors at http://www.abms.org ⁴. (Click on "Who's Certified.")
• The NCI provides a helpful fact sheet called "How To Find a Doctor or Treatment Facility If You Have Cancer." ⁵
• Nonprofit organizations with an interest in multiple myeloma may be of help. See the NCI fact sheet "National Organizations That Offer Services to People With Cancer and Their Families." ⁶

Methods of Treatment

The choice of treatment depends mainly on the stage and symptoms of your disease. If you have multiple myeloma without symptoms, you may not need treatment for the cancer. The doctor monitors your health closely so that treatment can start when you begin to have symptoms.

If you have symptoms, your treatment will probably involve anticancer drugs (including steroids). Sometimes stem cell transplantation or radiation therapy is part of the treatment plan. Your doctor can describe your treatment choices and the expected results of each. You and your doctor can work together to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs.

Because standard treatment may not control myeloma, you may want to talk to your doctor about taking part in a clinical trial. Clinical trials are research studies of new treatment methods. The section on "The Promise of Cancer Research" ⁷ has more information about clinical trials.

At any stage of disease, you may receive supportive care to control health problems (such as infections) caused by multiple myeloma. (See the "Supportive Care" ⁸ section.)

Anticancer Drug Therapy

Treatment of myeloma usually involves anticancer drugs. This treatment is called systemic therapy because the drugs enter the bloodstream and can affect myeloma cells all over the body.

Many different types of drugs are used to treat myeloma. Each type kills cancer cells in a different way.

Types of chemotherapy in common use include melphalan, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and doxorubicin. Prednisone is a steroid that is often used. In some cases, the doctor may suggest new options, such as thalidomide and bortezomib. People often receive a combination of drugs.

You may receive the drugs by mouth or through a vein. The treatment usually takes place in an outpatient part of the hospital, at your doctor's office, or at home. Patients rarely need to stay in the hospital during treatment.

Stem Cell Transplantation

Some people with multiple myeloma have stem cell transplantation. A stem cell transplant allows a person to receive high doses of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or both. The high doses destroy both myeloma cells and normal blood cells in the bone marrow. Later, the patient receives healthy stem cells through a flexible tube placed in a large vein in the neck or chest area. New blood cells develop from the transplanted stem cells.

Stem cell transplants take place in the hospital. Some patients have two or more transplants.

Stem cells may come from the patient or from a donor:

• Autologous stem cell transplantation: This type of transplant uses the patient's own stem cells. The stem cells are removed from the patient, and the cells may be treated to kill myeloma cells that may be present. The stem cells are frozen and stored. After the patient receives high-dose treatment, the stored stem cells are thawed and returned to the patient.
• Allogeneic stem cell transplantation: Sometimes healthy stem cells from a donor are available. The patient's brother, sister, or parent may be the donor. Or the stem cells may come from an unrelated donor. Doctors use blood tests to be sure the donor's cells match the patient's cells.
• Syngeneic stem cell transplantation: This type of transplant uses stem cells from the patient's healthy identical twin.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy (also called radiotherapy) uses high-energy rays to kill myeloma cells and to help control pain. People receive radiation therapy at a hospital or clinic.

Radiation therapy is given two ways for people with myeloma:

• Local radiation: A large machine aims radiation at the bone or the part of the body where myeloma cells have collected. It is local therapy because it affects cells only in the treated area. This is the main treatment for people with a single plasmacytoma. People receive radiation for 4 to 5 weeks. A shorter course of radiation therapy can be used to control the growth of tumors in bones and help relieve pain.
• Total-body irradiation: Some patients receive radiation to their whole body before stem cell transplantation. The radiation treatments may be given 2 to 3 times a day for several days.

Because cancer treatment often damages healthy cells and tissues, unwanted side effects are common. Side effects depend mainly on the type and extent of the treatment. Side effects may not be the same for each person, and they may change from one treatment session to the next. Before treatment starts, your health care team will explain possible side effects and suggest ways to help you manage them.

The NCI provides helpful booklets about cancer treatments and coping with side effects, such as Chemotherapy and You ⁹, Radiation Therapy and You ¹⁰, and Eating Hints for Cancer Patients ¹¹.

Anticancer Drug Therapy

The side effects of anticancer drugs depend mainly on the specific drugs and the dose. The drugs affect cancer cells and other cells that divide rapidly:

• Blood cells: When drugs affect your healthy blood cells, you are more likely to get infections, bruise or bleed easily, and feel very weak and tired.
• Cells in hair roots: Anticancer drugs can cause you to lose your hair. The hair will grow back, but it may be somewhat different in color and texture.
• Cells that line the digestive tract: Anticancer drugs can cause poor appetite, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, or mouth and lip sores.

The drugs used for myeloma also may cause skin rash, blisters, cramps, blurred vision, lung problems, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, numbness or tingling in hands or feet, and blood clots.

Your doctor can suggest ways to control many of these side effects.

Stem Cell Transplantation

People who have stem cell transplantation face an increased risk of infection, bleeding, and other side effects because of the large doses of chemotherapy or radiation they receive. In addition, graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) may occur in people who receive stem cells from a donor. In GVHD, the donated stem cells react against the patient's tissues. Most often, GVHD affects the liver, skin, or digestive tract. GVHD can be serious. It can occur any time after the transplant, even years later. Steroids or other drugs may help treat or control GVHD.

The NCI offers a fact sheet called "Bone Marrow Transplantation and Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation: Questions and Answers." ¹² You can read it on the Internet at http://www.cancer.gov/publications. Also, Information Specialists at the NCI's Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER can send you this fact sheet and answer questions about stem cell transplantation.

Radiation Therapy

The side effects of radiation therapy depend mainly on the dose of radiation and the part of the body that is treated. For example, your skin in the treated area may become red, dry, and tender. You also may lose your hair in the treated area.

You are likely to become very tired during radiation therapy, especially in the later weeks of treatment. Resting is important, but doctors usually advise patients to try to stay as active as they can.

Although the side effects of radiation therapy can be distressing, your doctor can usually relieve them.

Multiple myeloma and its treatment can lead to other health problems. You probably will receive supportive care to prevent or control these problems and to improve your comfort and quality of life.

This section tells about health problems that myeloma may cause and describes the supportive care people may need. Detailed information about supportive care is available on NCI's Web site at http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/coping and from NCI's Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER.

Infection

People with multiple myeloma get infections very easily. You may receive antibiotics and other drugs to help protect you. Your health care team may advise you to stay away from crowds and from people with colds or other contagious diseases. If an infection develops, it can be serious and should be treated promptly. Some people need to stay in the hospital for treatment.

Anemia

Myeloma and its treatment can lead to anemia, which may make you feel very tired. Drugs or blood transfusions can help with this problem.

Pain

Multiple myeloma often causes bone pain. Your health care provider can suggest ways to relieve or reduce pain. For example, drugs and local radiation therapy can help control bone pain. A brace may relieve pain in the neck or back. Some people get pain relief from massage or acupuncture when used along with other approaches. Also, the patient may learn relaxation techniques such as listening to slow music or breathing slowly and comfortably. Sometimes surgery is needed if the spinal cord is compressed (squeezed).

The NCI offers booklets called Pain Control: A Guide for People with Cancer and Their Families ¹³, Get Relief from Cancer Pain ¹⁴, and Understanding Cancer Pain ¹⁵.

Thinning Bones

Myeloma cells keep new bone cells from forming, and bones become thin wherever there are myeloma cells. Your doctor may give you drugs to prevent bone thinning and help reduce the risk of fractures. Physical activity, such as walking, also helps keep bones strong.

Too Much Calcium in the Blood

Multiple myeloma may cause calcium to leave the bones and enter the bloodstream. If you have a very high level of calcium in your blood, you may lose your appetite. You also may feel nauseated, restless, or confused. A high calcium level can also make you very tired, weak, dehydrated, and thirsty. Drinking a lot of fluids and taking drugs that lower the calcium in the blood can be helpful.

Kidney Problems

Some patients with multiple myeloma have kidney problems. If the problems are severe, they may need dialysis. Dialysis removes wastes from the blood. In some cases, people with serious kidney problems may need a kidney transplant.

Amyloidosis

Some people with myeloma develop amyloidosis. Abnormal protein collects in tissues of the body. The build-up of protein can cause many problems, some of them severe. For example, protein can build up in the heart, causing chest pain and swollen feet. Drugs are used to treat amyloidosis.

Some people with cancer use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to ease stress or to reduce side effects and symptoms:

• An approach is generally called complementary medicine when it is used along with standard treatment.
• An approach is called alternative medicine when it is used instead of standard treatment.

Acupuncture, massage therapy, herbal products, vitamins or special diets, visualization, meditation, and spiritual healing are types of CAM. Many people say that such approaches help them feel better.

However, some types of CAM may interfere with standard treatment. Combining CAM with standard treatment may even be harmful. Before trying any type of CAM, you should discuss its possible benefits and risks with your doctor.

Some types of CAM are expensive. Health insurance may not cover the cost.

The NCI offers a fact sheet called "Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Cancer Treatment: Questions and Answers." ¹⁶

It is important for people with multiple myeloma to eat well and to drink plenty of fluids. Eating well means getting enough calories to maintain a good weight and enough protein to keep up your strength. Good nutrition often helps people with cancer feel better and have more energy.

But eating well can be difficult. You may not feel like eating if you are uncomfortable or tired. Also, the side effects of treatment (such as poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, or mouth sores) can be a problem. Some people find that foods do not taste as good during cancer therapy.

The doctor, a dietitian, or another health care provider can suggest ways to maintain a healthy diet. The NCI booklet Eating Hints for Cancer Patients ¹¹ has many useful ideas and recipes.

Follow-up care after treatment for multiple myeloma is important. Your doctor will monitor your health and check for recurrence or changes in the cancer. Checkups help ensure that any changes in your health are noted and treated as needed. Checkups may include a physical exam, lab tests, bone marrow aspiration, and x-rays. Between scheduled visits, you should contact the doctor right away if you have any health problems.

To help answer questions about follow-up care and other concerns, the NCI has a booklet for people who have completed their treatment. Facing Forward Series: Life After Cancer Treatment ¹⁷ provides tips for making the best use of medical visits. It describes how to talk with the doctor about creating a plan of action for recovery and future health.

Living with a serious disease such as multiple myeloma is not easy. You may worry about caring for your family, keeping your job, or continuing daily activities. Concerns about treatments and managing side effects, hospital stays, and medical bills are also common. Doctors, nurses, and other members of the health care team can answer questions about treatment, work, or other activities. Meeting with a social worker, counselor, or member of the clergy can be helpful if you want to talk about your feelings or concerns. Often, a social worker can suggest resources for financial aid, transportation, home care, or emotional support.

Support groups also can help. In these groups, patients or their family members meet with other patients or their families to share what they have learned about coping with the disease and the effects of treatment. Groups may offer support in person, over the telephone, or on the Internet. You may want to talk with a member of your health care team about finding a support group.

Cancer Information Specialists at 1-800-4-CANCER and at LiveHelp ¹ (http://www.cancer.gov) can help you locate programs, services, and publications. Also, you may want to see the NCI fact sheets called "Cancer Support Groups: Questions and Answers" ¹⁸ and "National Organizations That Offer Services to People With Cancer and Their Families." ⁶

Doctors all over the country are conducting clinical trials (research studies in which people volunteer to take part). Many are studying new ways to treat multiple myeloma.

Clinical trials are designed to answer important questions and to find out whether the new treatments are safe and effective. Research already has led to advances, such as stem cell transplantation, and researchers continue to look for better ways to treat multiple myeloma.

Researchers are testing anticancer drugs (such as thalidomide and bortezomib) and drug combinations. They are also testing ways to improve stem cell transplantation for people with multiple myeloma.

People who join clinical trials may be among the first to benefit if a new approach is effective. And even if participants do not benefit directly, they still make an important contribution to medicine by helping doctors learn more about the disease and how to control it. Although clinical trials may pose some risks, researchers do all they can to protect their patients.

If you are interested in being part of a clinical trial, you should talk with your doctor. You may want to read the NCI booklet Taking Part in Cancer Treatment Research Studies ¹⁹. It explains how clinical trials are carried out and explains their possible benefits and risks.

NCI's Web site includes a section on clinical trials at http://www.cancer.gov/clinicaltrials. It has general information about clinical trials as well as detailed information about specific ongoing studies of multiple myeloma. Information Specialists at 1-800-4-CANCER or at LiveHelp ¹ at http://www.cancer.gov can answer questions and provide information about clinical trials.

You may want more information for yourself, your family, and your doctor. The following National Cancer Institute (NCI) services are available to help you.

Telephone

Cancer Information Service (CIS)
The CIS provides accurate, up-to-date information on cancer to patients and their families, health professionals, and the general public. Information Specialists translate the latest scientific information into understandable language and respond in English, Spanish, or on TTY equipment. Calls to the CIS are free.

Telephone: 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237)
TTY: 1-800-332-8615

Internet

The NCI's Web site (http://www.cancer.gov) provides information from numerous NCI sources. It offers current information on cancer prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, genetics, supportive care, and ongoing clinical trials. It has information about NCI's research programs and funding opportunities, cancer statistics, and the Institute itself. Information Specialists provide live, online assistance through LiveHelp ¹.

National Cancer Institute (NCI) publications can be ordered by writing to the address below:

Publications Ordering Service
National Cancer Institute
Suite 3035
6116 Executive Boulevard, MSC 8322
Bethesda, MD 20892-8322

Many NCI publications can be viewed, downloaded, and ordered from http://www.cancer.gov/publications ²⁰ on the Internet. In addition, people in the United States and its territories may order these and other NCI publications by calling the Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER.

Publications About Cancer Treatment

• Radiation Therapy and You: A Guide to Self-Help During Treatment ¹⁰ (also available in Spanish: La radioterapia y usted: una guía de autoayuda durante el tratamiento del cancer ²¹)
• Chemotherapy and You: A Guide to Self-Help During Treatment ⁹ (also available in Spanish: La quimioterapia y usted: una guía de autoayuda durante el tratamiento del cancer)
• Helping Yourself During Chemotherapy: 4 Steps for Patients ²²
• Biological Therapy: Treatments That Use Your Immune System to Fight Cancer ²³
• Eating Hints for Cancer Patients: Before, During & After Treatment ¹¹ (also available in Spanish: Consejos de alimentación para pacientes con cáncer: antes, durante y después del tratamiento ²⁴)
• Understanding Cancer Pain ¹⁵ (also available in Spanish: El dolor relacionado con el cáncer ²⁵)
Pain Control: A Guide for People with Cancer and Their Families ¹³ (also available in Spanish: Control del dolor: guía para las personas con cáncer y sus familias ²⁶)
• Get Relief From Cancer Pain
• Taking Part in Cancer Treatment Research Studies ¹⁹
• "Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Cancer Treatment: Questions and Answers" ¹⁶ (also available in Spanish: "La medicina complementaria y alternativa en el tratamiento del cáncer: preguntas y respuestas" ²⁷)
• "Biological Therapies for Cancer: Questions and Answers" ²⁸ (also available in Spanish: "Terapias biológicas del cáncer: preguntas y respuestas" ²⁹)
• "Bone Marrow Transplantation and Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation: Questions and Answers" ¹²

Publications About Living With Cancer

• Advanced Cancer: Living Each Day ³⁰
• Facing Forward Series: Life After Cancer Treatment ¹⁷ (also available in Spanish: Siga adelante: la vida después del tratamiento del cáncer ³¹)
• Facing Forward Series: Ways You Can Make a Difference in Cancer ³²
• Taking Time: Support for People With Cancer and the People Who Care About Them ³³
• When Cancer Recurs: Meeting the Challenge ³⁴
• "How To Find a Doctor or Treatment Facility If You Have Cancer" ⁵ (also available in Spanish: "Cómo encontrar a un doctor o un establecimiento de tratamiento si usted tiene cáncer" ³⁵)
• "Followup Care: Questions and Answers" ³⁶
• "Understanding Prognosis and Cancer Statistics" ³⁷ (also available in Spanish: "La interpretación de los pronósticos y las estadísticas del cáncer" ³⁸)
• "Cancer Support Groups: Questions and Answers" ¹⁸
• "National Organizations That Offer Services to People With Cancer and Their Families" ⁶ (also available in Spanish: "Organizaciones nacionales que brindan servicios a las personas con cáncer y sus familias" ³⁹)
• "How To Find Resources in Your Own Community If You Have Cancer" ⁴⁰ (also available in Spanish: "Cómo encontrar recursos en su comunidad si usted tiene cáncer" ⁴¹)

Glossary Terms

Not normal. An abnormal lesion or growth may be cancerous, premalignant (likely to become cancer), or benign.

The technique of inserting thin needles through the skin at specific points on the body to control pain and other symptoms. It is a type of complementary and alternative medicine.

Practices used instead of standard treatments. They generally are not recognized by the medical community as standard or conventional medical approaches. Examples of alternative medicine include dietary supplements, megadose vitamins, herbal preparations, special teas, acupuncture, massage therapy, magnet therapy, spiritual healing, and meditation.

A group of diseases in which protein is deposited in specific organs (localized amyloidosis) or throughout the body (systemic amyloidosis). Amyloidosis may be either primary (with no known cause) or secondary (caused by another disease, including some types of cancer). Generally, primary amyloidosis affects the nerves, skin, tongue, joints, heart, and liver; secondary amyloidosis often affects the spleen, kidneys, liver, and adrenal glands.

A condition in which the number of red blood cells is below normal.

A type of protein made by plasma cells (a type of white blood cell) in response to an antigen (foreign substance). Each antibody can bind to only one specific antigen. The purpose of this binding is to help destroy the antigen. Antibodies can work in several ways, depending on the nature of the antigen. Some antibodies destroy antigens directly. Others make it easier for white blood cells to destroy the antigen.

A small protein made by plasma cells (white blood cells that produce antibodies). It is found in the urine of most people with multiple myeloma (cancer that begins in plasma cells).

Not cancerous. Benign tumors may grow larger but do not spread to other parts of the body.

A small protein normally found on the surface of many cells, including lymphocytes, and in small amounts in the blood and urine. An increased amount in the blood or urine may be a sign of certain diseases, including some types of cancer, such as multiple myeloma or lymphoma.

The soft, sponge-like tissue in the center of most bones. It produces white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets.

A drug used to treat multiple myeloma that has gotten worse during treatment with other anticancer drugs. It is also used to treat mantle cell lymphoma in patients who have already received at least one other type of treatment. Bortezomib is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. It is a type of proteasome inhibitor and a type of dipeptidyl boronic acid. Also called Velcade and PS-341.

A mineral found in teeth, bones, and other body tissues.

A term for diseases in which abnormal cells divide without control. Cancer cells can invade nearby tissues and can spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymph systems. There are several main types of cancer. Carcinoma is cancer that begins in the skin or in tissues that line or cover internal organs. Sarcoma is cancer that begins in bone, cartilage, fat, muscle, blood vessels, or other connective or supportive tissue. Leukemia is cancer that starts in blood-forming tissue such as the bone marrow, and causes large numbers of abnormal blood cells to be produced and enter the blood. Lymphoma and multiple myeloma are cancers that begin in the cells of the immune system. Central nervous system cancers are cancers that begin in the tissues of the brain and spinal cord.

Treatment with drugs that kill cancer cells.

A type of research study that tests how well new medical approaches work in people. These studies test new methods of screening, prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of a disease. Also called a clinical study.

CAM. Forms of treatment that are used in addition to (complementary) or instead of (alternative) standard treatments. These practices generally are not considered standard medical approaches. Standard treatments go through a long and careful research process to prove they are safe and effective, but less is known about most types of CAM. CAM may include dietary supplements, megadose vitamins, herbal preparations, special teas, acupuncture, massage therapy, magnet therapy, spiritual healing, and meditation. Also called CAM.

Practices often used to enhance or complement standard treatments. They generally are not recognized by the medical community as standard or conventional medical approaches. Complementary medicine may include dietary supplements, megadose vitamins, herbal preparations, special teas, acupuncture, massage therapy, magnet therapy, spiritual healing, and meditation.

Computed tomography scan. A series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body taken from different angles; the pictures are created by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. Also called computed tomography scan, computerized tomography, computerized axial tomography scan, and CAT scan.

An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents.

A condition caused by the loss of too much water from the body. Severe diarrhea or vomiting can cause dehydration.

The process of filtering the blood when the kidneys are not able to cleanse it.

A health professional with special training in nutrition who can help with dietary choices. Also called a nutritionist.

The organs through which food and liquids pass when they are swallowed, digested, and eliminated. These organs are the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, and rectum and anus.

A drug that is used to treat many types of cancer and is being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Doxorubicin comes from the bacterium Streptomyces peucetius. It damages DNA (the molecules inside cells that carry genetic information) and stops cells from growing. Rapidly growing tumor cells that take up doxorubicin may die. It is a type of anthracycline antitumor antibiotic. Also called doxorubicin hydrochloride, Adriamycin PFS, Adriamycin RDF, and Rubex.

GVHD. A reaction of donated stem cells against the patient’s tissue. Also called GVHD.

A doctor who specializes in treating blood disorders.

The complex group of organs and cells that defends the body against infections and other diseases.

Invasion and multiplication of germs in the body. Infections can occur in any part of the body and can spread throughout the body. The germs may be bacteria, viruses, yeast, or fungi. They can cause a fever and other problems, depending on where the infection occurs. When the body’s natural defense system is strong, it can often fight the germs and prevent infection. Some cancer treatments can weaken the natural defense system.

Treatment that affects cells in the tumor and the area close to it.

An antibody found in unusually large amounts in the blood or urine of people with multiple myeloma and other types of plasma cell tumors. Also called monoclonal protein.

A doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer using chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and biological therapy. A medical oncologist often is the main health care provider for someone who has cancer. A medical oncologist also gives supportive care and may coordinate treatment given by other specialists.

A drug that is used to treat multiple myeloma and ovarian epithelial cancer and is being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. It belongs to the family of drugs called alkylating agents. Also called Alkeran.

A benign condition in which there is a higher-than-normal level of a protein called M protein in the blood. Patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance are at an increased risk of developing cancer. Also called MGUS.

A procedure in which radio waves and a powerful magnet linked to a computer are used to create detailed pictures of areas inside the body. These pictures can show the difference between normal and diseased tissue. MRI makes better images of organs and soft tissue than other scanning techniques, such as computed tomography (CT) or x-ray. MRI is especially useful for imaging the brain, the spine, the soft tissue of joints, and the inside of bones. Also called magnetic resonance imaging, nuclear magnetic resonance imaging, and NMRI.

A type of cancer that begins in plasma cells (white blood cells that produce antibodies). Also called Kahler disease, myelomatosis, or plasma cell myeloma.

Having an abnormally high, unhealthy amount of body fat.

A doctor who identifies diseases by studying cells and tissues under a microscope.

Any substance that is used to kill insects and other pests.

A tumor that begins in plasma cells (white blood cells that produce antibodies). Multiple myeloma, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), and plasmacytoma are types of plasma cell tumors.

A type of cancer that begins in plasma cells (white blood cells that produce antibodies). A plasmacytoma may turn into multiple myeloma.

The overall enjoyment of life. Many clinical trials assess the effects of cancer and its treatment on the quality of life. These studies measure aspects of an individual’s sense of well-being and ability to carry out various activities.

A doctor who specializes in using radiation to treat cancer.

The use of high-energy radiation from x-rays, gamma rays, neutrons, protons, and other sources to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation may come from a machine outside the body (external-beam radiation therapy), or it may come from radioactive material placed in the body near cancer cells (internal radiation therapy). Systemic radiation therapy uses a radioactive substance, such as a radiolabeled monoclonal antibody, that travels in the blood to tissues throughout the body. Also called radiotherapy and irradiation.

Cancer that has recurred (come back), usually after a period of time during which the cancer could not be detected. The cancer may come back to the same place as the original (primary) tumor or to another place in the body. Also called recurrent cancer.

Something that may increase the chance of developing a disease. Some examples of risk factors for cancer include age, a family history of certain cancers, use of tobacco products, certain eating habits, obesity, lack of exercise, exposure to radiation or other cancer-causing agents, and certain genetic changes.

A problem that occurs when treatment affects healthy tissues or organs. Some common side effects of cancer treatment are fatigue, pain, nausea, vomiting, decreased blood cell counts, hair loss, and mouth sores.

The extent of a cancer in the body. Staging is usually based on the size of the tumor, whether lymph nodes contain cancer, and whether the cancer has spread from the original site to other parts of the body.

A cell from which other types of cells develop. For example, blood cells develop from blood-forming stem cells.

A method of replacing immature blood-forming cells that were destroyed by cancer treatment. The stem cells are given to the person after treatment to help the bone marrow recover and continue producing healthy blood cells.

A type of drug used to relieve swelling and inflammation. Some steroid drugs may also have antitumor effects.

Care given to improve the quality of life of patients who have a serious or life-threatening disease. The goal of supportive care is to prevent or treat as early as possible the symptoms of a disease, side effects caused by treatment of a disease, and psychological, social, and spiritual problems related to a disease or its treatment. Also called palliative care, comfort care, and symptom management.

An indication that a person has a condition or disease. Some examples of symptoms are headache, fever, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and pain.

Treatment using substances that travel through the bloodstream, reaching and affecting cells all over the body.

A drug that is used to treat multiple myeloma in patients who have just been diagnosed, and a painful skin disease related to leprosy. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Thalidomide belongs to the family of drugs called angiogenesis inhibitors. Also called Thalomid.

A group or layer of cells that work together to perform a specific function.

An abnormal mass of tissue that results when cells divide more than they should or do not die when they should. Tumors may be benign (not cancerous), or malignant (cancerous). Also called neoplasm.

The active ingredient in a drug used to treat acute leukemia. It is used in combination with other drugs to treat Hodgkin disease, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, neuroblastoma, and Wilms tumor. Vincristine is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. It blocks cell growth by stopping cell division. It is a type of vinca alkaloid and a type of antimitotic agent.

In medicine, a very simple microorganism that infects cells and may cause disease. Because viruses can multiply only inside infected cells, they are not considered to be alive.

Refers to a blood cell that does not contain hemoglobin. White blood cells include lymphocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, macrophages, and mast cells. These cells are made by bone marrow and help the body fight infections and other diseases. Also called WBC.

A type of high-energy radiation. In low doses, x-rays are used to diagnose diseases by making pictures of the inside of the body. In high doses, x-rays are used to treat cancer.