Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma develops when plasma cells in the bone marrow grow uncontrollably, producing abnormal proteins that can lead to serious complications. While the overall lifetime risk in the U.S. is relatively low (about 1 in 108 for men and 1 in 133 for women), risk increases with age, male sex, and African American ethnicity. Early evaluation is important for timely diagnosis and treatment.
At the Cancer Center of Southern California, our team provides advanced, personalized care for multiple myeloma, including expert second opinions and access to advanced clinical trials.
Call us at (310) 552-9999 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation today.
What is Multiple Myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that begins in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell in your bone marrow that helps fight infection.
When these cells become cancerous, they:
- Multiply uncontrollably and crowd out healthy blood-forming cells
- Produce abnormal proteins (M-protein) that accumulate in the blood and organs
- Release substances that break down bone, creating weak spots known as lytic lesions
Over time, this process can cause anemia, increased infection risk, bone pain, fractures, kidney damage, and immune system weakness.
What Makes Our Care for Multiple Myeloma Unique
At the Cancer Center of Southern California, we focus on timely diagnosis and specialized care for a positive outcome.
Guided by Dr. Sant Chawla, a pioneer in cancer research who has led numerous groundbreaking clinical trials, our care is rooted in real-world innovation and decades of experience. We work closely with surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists to deliver multidisciplinary care.
Unlike large institutions where waits can stretch for months, we prioritize same-week appointments and trusted second opinions. We also welcome HMO and Kaiser patients into clinical trials, offering opportunities that are often unavailable elsewhere.
We are among the region’s top enrollers in multiple myeloma clinical trials. This means our patients often have access to promising therapies before they are available elsewhere, creating new possibilities for improved outcomes.
Survival & Prognosis: Facts You Should Know
In the U.S., the overall 5-year relative survival rate for patients with multiple myeloma is approximately 60–62%. Early diagnosis improves prognosis significantly and localized disease has much higher survival compared to more advanced stages.
Recent treatment advances (new drugs, immunotherapy, CAR-T, etc.) are further improving survival and quality of life for many patients.
Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma often develops slowly and may be identified during routine blood tests before symptoms appear. Common signs include:
- Bone pain (back, ribs, hips, chest, pelvis, legs)
- Fatigue and weakness
- Frequent infections
- Unexplained weight loss and poor appetite
- Nausea, vomiting, and constipation
- Confusion or mental cloudiness
- Excessive thirst and dehydration
- Numbness or tingling in arms and legs
These symptoms may be subtle or overlap with other conditions; therefore, early evaluation is important, especially if you have risk factors. We offer same-week appointments and second opinions to help you understand your diagnosis and explore treatment options without delay.
Risks Factors of Multiple Myeloma
Several factors can increase the risk of developing multiple myeloma, including:
- Age (65+)
- Male gender
- African American ethnicity
- Family history of multiple myeloma or plasma cell disorders
- Obesity
- Environmental exposure (certain pesticides and fertilizers)
How We Diagnose Multiple Myeloma
At Cancer Center of Southern California, our team understands that a diagnosis of multiple myeloma can feel overwhelming. That’s why we take a thorough, personalized approach to determine the best treatment options for you.
Our diagnostic process may include:
- Blood tests to detect abnormal M-protein and assess anemia or kidney function
- Urine tests for myeloma protein (Bence Jones protein)
- Advanced imaging (X-ray, MRI, CT, PET scans) to evaluate bone damage
- Bone marrow biopsy to confirm abnormal plasma cell growth
We focus on helping you understand the results and the treatment options available without overwhelming you with medical jargon.
Advanced Treatment Options We Offer
At the Cancer Center of Southern California, our team works closely with you to design a care plan tailored to your health, stage of disease, and personal goals. We encourage open discussions so you fully understand the benefits and side effects of each option.
Led by Dr. Sant Chawla, our team ensures you have access to the latest, most effective therapies. We also collaborate closely with specialists such as surgeons, radiologists, and other experts to deliver customized care tailored to your needs.
Treatment options for multiple myeloma may include:
- Chemotherapy: Drugs that kill cancer cells, often used with other medications for greater effectiveness
- Targeted Therapy: Attacks specific proteins or pathways that fuel myeloma cell growth
- Immunotherapy: Boosts your immune system to better detect and fight cancer cells
- Stem Cell Transplantation: Replaces diseased marrow with healthy stem cells to restore blood cell production
- Radiation Therapy: Targets affected areas to shrink tumors, reduce pain, and strengthen bones
- Bisphosphonates: Medication to help strengthen bones and reduce fracture risk
- Plasmapheresis: Removes abnormal proteins from the blood in select cases
- Surgery: Collaborate with surgeons to help stabilize damaged bones or relieve pressure on the spinal cord
- Clinical Trials: Access to innovative treatments currently under research, giving you additional options beyond standard therapies
Multiple Myeloma Treatment in Southern California
Our internationally renowned oncologists guide you through every step of your treatment journey, from multiple myeloma diagnosis to advanced therapies tailored for the best possible outcomes. With faster access to appointments, trusted second opinions, and leadership in clinical trials, we provide options even when others say there are none.
For appointments, please call us at 310-552-9999 or request an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Early multiple myeloma may not cause symptoms, but persistent bone pain, fatigue, frequent infections, or unexplained weight loss should prompt a doctor’s visit.
Not all patients are candidates. Eligibility depends on age, overall health, and disease stage. Your oncologist will discuss whether this option is suitable for you.
Relapse is possible. Regular monitoring of blood tests and follow-up appointments helps detect recurrence early so treatment can be timely.
Yes. Our clinical trials can provide access to innovative therapies that are not yet widely available.
