2. Multiple Myeloma
As “M-proteins” start to accumulate in the bloodstream, they may start to cause multiple problems with the patient. One of the more severe complications of MGUS is multiple myeloma. Multiple myelomas describes a type of cancer that forms in white blood cell plasma. These plasma cells help the patient fight infection by creating antibodies to fight off invading pathogens.
When white blood cell plasma declines, the immune system starts to reduce its functionality, resulting in the onset of numerous viral and bacterial infections in the patient. As a result of the decline in immune deficiency, the patient ends up dying from preventable diseases such as pneumonia. Multiple myelomas cause cancer cells to accumulate in bone marrow, crowding out healthy blood cells.
The cancer cells create abnormal proteins causing complications for the affected individual. In some cases, multiple myeloma does not present any symptoms in the affected individual. However, for those that do experience complications, treatments are available to help them control the disease.