Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that originates in plasma cells, which are an essential part of the immune system. It leads to abnormal production of immunoglobulins, affecting the body's ability to fight infections.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Multiple myeloma causes overproduction of monoclonal antibodies, leading to abnormal antigen-antibody complexes.
Detection methods for multiple myeloma often involve serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) and immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE).
Patients with multiple myeloma may have increased levels of M-protein in their blood or urine.
Bone marrow biopsies can reveal a high percentage of plasma cells as a diagnostic criterion for multiple myeloma.
The disease can cause complications like anemia, bone lesions, kidney dysfunction, and increased susceptibility to infections.
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Related terms
Plasma Cell: A type of white blood cell responsible for producing antibodies.
Immunoglobulin: A protein produced by plasma cells that acts as an antibody.
Serum Protein Electrophoresis (SPEP): A laboratory technique used to separate and identify proteins in the blood.