What is multiple myeloma?
-Multiple myeloma is a cancer that starts in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell.
-The immune system is composed of several types of cells that work together to fight infections and other diseases.
-Lymphocytes are the main cell type of the immune system.
-There are 2 major types of lymphocytes: T cells and B cells.
-When B cells respond to an infection, they mature and change into plasma cell
-Plasma cells are mainly found in the bone marrow.
-Plasma cells make the antibodies that help the body attack and kill germs.
-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
-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. These abnormal plasma cells are called myeloma cells.
-In time, myeloma cells collect in the bone marrow. They may damage the solid part of the bone.
-When myeloma cells collect in several bones, the disease is called "multiple myeloma."
-This disease may also harm other tissues and organs, such as the kidneys.
-Myeloma cells make antibodies called M proteins and other proteins. These proteins can collect in the blood, urine and organs
-The antibody made by the myeloma cells does not help fight infections.
-The antibody made by myeloma cells can harm the kidneys. This can lead to kidney damage and even kidney failure.
Risk factors for salivary glands cancer
-Older age
-Treatment with radiation therapy to the head and neck
-Being exposed to certain substances at work
-Infection with Epstein-Barr virus
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