What does myeloma mean?
Myeloma is a type of cancer that affects the plasma cells in the bone marrow. It is characterized by the production of abnormal proteins, which can lead to a range of symptoms, including anemia, bone pain, and kidney damage. Myeloma is typically diagnosed through a combination of blood tests, bone marrow biopsies, and imaging studies. Treatment options for myeloma include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplantation. In some cases, myeloma can be cured with treatment, but in other cases, it can be a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Myeloma is a relatively rare type of cancer, but it is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease that requires prompt medical attention.
noun
A type of cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow, characterized by the production of abnormal proteins.
- 1. A type of cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow
"The patient was diagnosed with multiple myeloma and required immediate treatment."
"The patient was diagnosed with multiple myeloma and required immediate treatment."
"The doctor explained the risks and benefits of chemotherapy for myeloma patients."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of myeloma
The word 'myeloma' comes from the Greek words 'myelos' (meaning bone marrow) and 'oma' (meaning tumor or disease). It was first used in the early 20th century to describe a type of cancer that affects the bone marrow.
Usage notes
Myeloma is a relatively rare type of cancer, but it is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease that requires prompt medical attention. The term 'myeloma' is often used interchangeably with 'plasma cell myeloma', but technically, myeloma refers to any type of cancer that affects the bone marrow, while plasma cell myeloma specifically refers to a type of cancer that affects plasma cells.