Multiple myeloma is a rare type of blood cancer that is not widely understood by the general public but has a significant impact on patients. As a leading healthcare center in Indonesia, Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri provides comprehensive care with a multidisciplinary team of specialists and advanced technology to treat this condition.
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What Is Multiple Myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that attacks plasma cells. Plasma cells are a part of B lymphocytes, which belong to the group of white blood cells (leukocytes). Under normal conditions, plasma cells play a crucial role in the immune system by producing antibodies (immunoglobulins) that help fight infections, particularly those caused by viruses and bacteria.
In multiple myeloma patients, plasma cells grow abnormally and excessively, leading to disruptions in the production of other blood cells and damage to various organs, especially the bones and kidneys.
Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma to Watch For
Recognizing the early symptoms of multiple myeloma is crucial for timely treatment. Some common symptoms experienced by multiple myeloma patients include:
- Bone and muscle pain: The primary complaint of multiple myeloma patients is pain in the bones and muscles, especially in the back, hips, and ribs.
- Fatigue: Patients often feel easily fatigued due to low hemoglobin (Hb) levels, leading to anemia.
- Bone thinning and fragility: Multiple myeloma can cause bones to become thin and brittle (osteoporosis), even resulting in fractures.
- Kidney dysfunction: Marked by increased creatinine levels in the blood.
- Elevated calcium levels: Bone damage can release calcium into the bloodstream, leading to hypercalcemia.
A diagnostic indicator for multiple myeloma identified by hematology-oncology medical specialists is CRAB:
- C: Calcium (high calcium/hypercalcemia)
- R: Renal involvement (kidney dysfunction)
- A: Anemia (low hemoglobin levels)
- B: Bone involvement (bone-related issues)
Who Is at Risk for Multiple Myeloma?
Multiple myeloma primarily affects adults over the age of 60. While it can affect anyone, statistics show that men have a slightly higher risk than women. Other risk factors include a family history of multiple myeloma, exposure to radiation or certain chemicals, and specific health conditions such as monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS).
Diagnosis of Multiple Myeloma at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri
Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri is equipped with advanced diagnostic facilities to accurately detect multiple myeloma. After identifying CRAB symptoms, specialists at Mandaya will conduct further examinations, such as:
- Protein electrophoresis: Measures albumin and globulin levels in the blood. In multiple myeloma patients, globulin levels are typically higher than albumin.
- Immunofixation: Blood tests to identify the specific type of excess immunoglobulin.
- Bone marrow examination: Bone marrow samples are analyzed under a microscope to detect increased plasma cell counts.
- Medical imaging: Technologies such as X-rays and MRIs are used to detect bone damage caused by multiple myeloma.
Treatment of Multiple Myeloma at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri
Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri takes a comprehensive approach to treating multiple myeloma patients. Hematology-oncology medical specialist Dr. Toman T.J Lumban Toruan, Sp.PD-KHOM, collaborates within a multidisciplinary team to provide the best care for each patient.
The multiple myeloma treatment strategies at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri include:
- Induction chemotherapy: Aims to eliminate myeloma cells before further treatment steps.
- Autologous bone marrow transplantation: For eligible patients, autologous bone marrow transplantation is an option following successful induction chemotherapy.
- Maintenance therapy: After chemotherapy or transplantation, patients undergo maintenance therapy to prevent recurrence.
- Regular monitoring: Patients are regularly monitored through laboratory tests to assess myeloma cell activity.
According to Dr. Toman T.J Lumban Toruan, Sp.PD-KHOM, “With proper treatment, remission rates (disease symptom reduction) in multiple myeloma patients can reach 50-90%, with or without bone marrow transplantation. The key to success is continuous maintenance therapy and regular check-ups.”
Multidisciplinary Team at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri
Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri has an experienced multidisciplinary team specializing in treating multiple myeloma, including:
- Hematology-Oncology Medical Specialists: Conduct in-depth diagnostics in a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach.
- Clinical Pathology Specialists: Interpret laboratory test results.
- Radiology Specialists: Analyze medical imaging results.
- Nutritionists: Help patients maintain optimal nutritional status during treatment.
- Psychologists: Provide psychological support for patients and families.
- Other Related Specialists: Including nephrologists, orthopedic specialists, and other necessary specialists.
This collaborative approach ensures that each patient receives comprehensive and holistic care tailored to their specific condition.
Advanced Diagnostic Technology at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri
Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to detect and monitor multiple myeloma, including:
- Advanced laboratory: For protein electrophoresis, immunofixation, and complete blood tests.
- Latest MRI technology: For highly detailed bone damage detection.
- Low-dose radiation CT scan: For safe and accurate imaging.
- Bone marrow sampling facilities: Equipped with modern equipment for patient comfort and safety.
Expertise of Dr. Toman T.J Lumban Toruan, Sp.PD-KHOM in Multiple Myeloma Treatment
As a hematology-oncology medical specialist at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri, Dr. Toman has successfully treated numerous multiple myeloma cases. With his extensive expertise and experience, he provides personalized and effective treatment approaches for each patient.
Under the guidance of Dr. Toman and the medical team at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri, multiple myeloma patients can undergo treatment with the hope of achieving optimal remission rates, improving quality of life, and extending life expectancy.
Multiple myeloma is a complex blood cancer that requires comprehensive and continuous treatment. Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri stands as a leading healthcare center with experienced hematology-oncology medical specialists, supported by advanced diagnostic technology and a multidisciplinary approach.
If you or a family member experience persistent bone pain, fatigue, or other concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to consult the medical team at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri. Early detection and proper treatment are key to successfully managing multiple myeloma.
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