Multiple myeloma causes plasma cells (a form of white blood cells) in your bone marrow to multiply uncontrollably. Typically, healthy plasma fights off infections and protects you from germs. But with multiple myeloma, cancerous cells overtake the healthy plasma and prevent the production of antibodies.
Multiple myeloma is most common in adults over 45, and men are more likely to be affected than women. Symptoms of multiple myeloma can include:
- Low blood counts
- Bone pain
- Infections
- Kidney problems
- Nerve damage