Is multiple myeloma the same as myeloma, or is there a difference?

Multiple myeloma, often simply called myeloma, is a cancer that starts in plasma cells. Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow, and they help the body fight infections by making antibodies. In myeloma, these plasma cells become cancerous and multiply uncontrollably.

Key Points:

• Plasma Cells: These are normally found in the bone marrow and are important for immune function.
• Cancerous Growth: In multiple myeloma, the plasma cells grow too much and form tumors in the bone marrow, which can cause bone damage and other health problems.
• Symptoms: People with multiple myeloma may experience bone pain, fatigue, and frequent infections.

It's important to understand that 'multiple myeloma' and 'myeloma' are terms that can be used interchangeably to describe the same disease. This condition affects the bone marrow and can lead to various complications, including bone damage and weakened immune responses. If you're experiencing any concerning symptoms, you can use Ubie's free AI symptom checker to better understand what might be happening and determine if you should seek medical attention.