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What is multiple myeloma?

couple embracing while speaking about multiple myeloma cancerMultiple myeloma, also known as Kahler's disease, is a type of cancer that originates in plasma cells, which are located in the bone marrow. This type of cancer occurs when abnormal plasma cells begin to grow and multiply, crowding other healthy cells, such as red blood cells, platelets and other types of white blood cells, out of the bone marrow. Unlike normal plasma cells, which produce antibodies that target and fight infection, multiple myeloma cells produce abnormal proteins that can potentially build up and cause damage in the kidneys.

Our Approach

For patients who have been diagnosed with multiple myeloma or suspect they may have the condition, Moffitt Cancer Center’s Malignant Hematology Program offers some of the best cancer treatment options available and can provide these services all at one convenient location. Our multiple myeloma program is comprised of physicians who each specialize in a different aspect of cancer evaluation, treatment and supportive care.

Some of the members of our multiple myeloma team include:

  • Medical oncologists
  • Radiation oncologists
  • Hematopathologists
  • Orthopedic specialists
  • Radiologists
  • Bone marrow transplant specialists
  • Experienced nurses
  • Supportive care providers

Together, these specialists meet in a weekly tumor board to discuss each case and formulate effective treatment plans based on each patient’s condition. These plans may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, bone marrow transplants, clinical trials or any combination thereof, in addition to a supportive care plan to help the patient manage any symptoms or side effects. Thanks to this holistic approach to treating multiple myeloma, as well as our dedication to developing new, groundbreaking clinical trials, Moffitt has been recognized as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute.

For more information on our multiple myeloma program and treatment options, contact Moffitt Cancer Center by calling 1-888-663-3488 or completing our online new patient registration form. No referral is necessary to schedule an appointment with one of our oncologists specializing in multiple myeloma and plasma cell tumors.

 

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