Kidney malfunction and multiple myeloma: Root causes and recommended treatments
Multiple Myeloma (MM) is a type of blood cancer that affects white blood cells called plasma cells. This disease can lead to a complication known as myeloma kidney, which is characterised by renal impairment symptoms due to toxic protein deposition and metabolic disturbances from MM.
Myeloma kidney is commonly marked by symptoms related to kidney dysfunction such as decreased kidney function or renal failure. Symptoms may include swelling (due to fluid retention), fatigue, and elevated creatinine or urea levels detected through blood tests.
Risk factors for myeloma kidney primarily stem from the biology of MM. The bone marrow produces abnormal plasma cells that make abnormal proteins, which can deposit in kidney tubules, causing damage and renal insufficiency. Hypercalcemia, a common condition in MM, also contributes to kidney injury.
Accumulation of free light chains (Bence Jones proteins) produced by malignant plasma cells, pre-existing kidney disease or damage, and factors predisposing to aggressive MM are also risk factors.
Management of myeloma kidney typically involves controlling the underlying MM to reduce the production of nephrotoxic proteins and correcting hypercalcemia. Treatment options may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplantation, plasmapheresis, immunotherapy, drugs to help fight infection, pain-relieving medications, and intravenous fluids if dehydration is present.
At the time of diagnosis, up to half of all people living with MM may have kidney damage, with about 20-40% having some form of kidney failure. If a person with MM is experiencing symptoms of kidney disease, their doctor will request blood and urine tests to assess their kidney function.
People with early stage kidney disease may not experience any symptoms. It is crucial for anyone experiencing symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, UTIs, bone pain, and loss of appetite to see their doctor for a blood test to check their kidney function.
The outlook for a person who has developed MM with kidney involvement depends on various factors such as the person's age, the stage of MM, the type of treatment the person is receiving for MM, and the extent of kidney damage. Treatment for myeloma kidney involves a range of medical professionals, including oncologists, hematologists, surgeons, and nurses.
To diagnose MM, a doctor will perform a physical examination, take a full medical history, and order tests such as blood tests, urine tests, bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, and imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans.
According to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF), the 5-year relative survival for MM was 53.9% from 2010-2016, with survival rates improving due to advances in treatment. However, it is essential to note that each case is unique, and the prognosis can vary greatly.
In conclusion, myeloma kidney is a serious complication of MM that requires careful monitoring and management. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with MM, it is crucial to discuss any concerns about kidney health with your doctor or healthcare specialist team.
- Myeloma kidney is a complication associated with chronic kidney diseases and chronic diseases, often characterized by renal impairment symptoms.
- The disease, Multiple Myeloma (MM), affects plasma cells in the bone marrow, leading to complications such as myeloma kidney.
- The onset of myeloma kidney can be due to risk factors like abnormal protein deposition, pre-existing kidney disease, or aggressiveforms of MM.
- Scientific advancements in the field of health and wellness have led to improved therapies and treatments for MM, increasing the 5-year survival rate.
- Fitness, exercise, mental health, and skin care are essential aspects of maintaining overall health, but people living with MM must pay special attention to kidney health.
- Nutrition plays a crucial role in managing MM; a balanced diet can aid in reducing the production of nephrotoxic proteins.
- Medicare and medical insurance may cover the cost of treatments and tests for MM and associated complications like myeloma kidney.
