How is multiple myeloma treated?
Treatment for multiple myeloma is mainly systemic. These kinds of treatments kill or control cancer cells all through the body. Doctors almost always use chemotherapy to treat people with multiple myeloma. They may also use bone marrow transplants and stem cell transplants. Local treatments fight cancer cells in one area. Radiation is an example. Doctors use it to control bone pain or prevent breaks.
Staging 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. Treatment 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
