Learn more about bone marrow cancer below, including signs, symptoms and risk factors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What is Bone Marrow Cancer?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Plasma cells help the body’s immune system fight disease by producing substances called antibodies. Too many plasma cells can form a tumor in the bone marrow called a myeloma; many tumors are called multiple myeloma.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The excess growth of plasma cells interferes with the body\u2019s ability to make red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. This causes anemia and makes you more prone to infections and abnormal bleeding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As the cancer cells grow in the bone marrow, they cause pain and destruction of the bones. If the bones in the spine are affected, it can put pressure on the nerves, resulting in numbness or paralysis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Risk Factors for Bone Marrow Cancer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Multiple myeloma mainly affects older adults, and is more common among African Americans. To date, there is no way to prevent multiple myeloma, but there are certain risk factors associated with the disease, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- A family history of bone marrow cancer<\/li>
- Exposure to chemicals such as herbicides, rubber, textiles, petroleum products or heavy metals<\/li>
- Exposure to radiation, including radiation therapy<\/li>
- History of chronic infections<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Bone Marrow Cancer Symptoms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Many people show no signs of bone marrow cancer. When multiple myeloma symptoms are present, they may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Anemia<\/li>
- Bone pain or fractures<\/li>
- Confusion<\/li>
- Constipation<\/li>
- Infections (viral or bacterial)<\/li>
- Nausea or vomiting<\/li>
- Numbness in the legs<\/li>
- Problems with urination<\/li>
- Weakness and fatigue<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
How to Diagnose Multiple Myeloma<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Bone marrow cancer is often difficult to detect. If your physician suspects the disease, he or she may perform diagnostic tests, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- X-rays<\/li>
- Blood and urine tests<\/li>
- CT and\/or bone scans<\/li>
- Bone marrow aspiration<\/li>
- Biopsy<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n
![\"Shawn](\"https:\/\/kyruus-app-static.kyruus.com\/providermatch\/norton\/photos\/500\/glisson-shawn-1821061268.jpg\")
<\/a>\n\n