Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects plasma cells, and it’s connected to the immune system. But this is crucial to the immune system. Multiple myeloma affects plasma cells, which are responsible for producing antibodies that fight against infections. And the plasma cells will multiply uncontrollably in the bone marrow. Let’s explore the role played by the immune system in multiple myeloma.
What is Multiple myeloma?
Multiple myeloma begins in the plasma cell. In this condition, healthy cells are crowded by abnormal plasma, and it will produce defective antibodies called M-proteins. The abnormal plasma also damages various parts of the body. This defective protein cannot fight infections and leads to complications such as kidney damage. One of the key features of multiple myeloma is bone damage.
The overgrowth of myeloma cells in the bone marrow reduces the production of normal blood cells and causes anemia. Do not hesitate to undergo treatment, because Hematology Treatment In Coimbatore is also very affordable. Frequent infection and weakness are symptoms of multiple myeloma.
What are the symptoms of multiple myeloma?
The early stage of multiple myeloma might not show any symptoms. It can vary and may develop gradually. Some of the key symptoms of multiple myeloma are,
- Bone pain
- Fatigue or weakness
- Frequent Infection
- Bone Fractures
- Kidney problems
What are the causes of multiple myeloma?
The exact cause of multiple myeloma is not yet known, but it develops from mutations of genes in plasma cells. The exact triggers for these changes in genetics are unclear, but several factors are also associated with an increased risk of developing multiple myeloma and some of the potential causes include,
Genetic changes: This happens due to DNA mutations in plasma cells, which cause them to multiply abnormally. These mutations may affect genes that are involved in the process of cell growth like oncogenes.
Age: The risk of multiple myeloma is increased by age, individuals over the age of 60 are more prone to this condition.
Gender: Men develop more multiple myeloma when compared to women.
Obesity: Excess weight can be linked to a higher risk of the development of multiple myeloma.
Chronic infections: The conditions that are stimulating the immune system may contribute to plasma abnormalities.
Visit a blood cancer specialist in Coimbatore if you are facing the causes mentioned above.
How does the immune system influence Multiple myeloma?
The immune system plays an important role in the development, progression, and treatment of Multiple myeloma. This cancer arises from plasma cells, which disrupt the normal function of the immune system. This disease makes the immune system compromised and leads to immune suppression. The nature of T-cells, which are responsible for attacking abnormal cells, is often dysfunctional due to this chronic inflammation.
How does chronic inflammation in the immune system contribute to multiple myeloma?
By creating a microenvironment conducive to cancer growth and immune suppression, the immune system will be involved in the process of multiple myeloma. When inflammation lasts for a long time, the immune system will start to release certain chemicals that help myeloma cells survive and avoid dying. The chemicals that are produced by the immune system create an environment where the cancer cells can thrive.
This causes a weak immune system and is less effective. Regular exercise can increase the immune system. Chronic inflammation also brings in immune system cells, such as regulatory T cells, which suppress the activity of other immune cells. This leads to bone damage, which is very common in multiple myeloma. This chronic inflammation also damages plasma cells, and it can lead to DNA changes. The interaction between chronic inflammation and the immune system creates a cycle
What is the role of T cells and NK cells in multiple myeloma?
These two cells are critical components of the immune system. The T cells and NK cells play a key role in controlling cancer. In multiple myeloma, the function of these cells is often impaired.
T cells: This cell is responsible for identifying and destroying abnormal or cancerous cells. But sometimes T cells become “exhausted,” which means they lose their ability to target effectively and lose the ability to kill myeloma. This exhaustion is caused by the tumor microenvironment. This cell normally prevents overactive immune responses.
NK cells: NK will play a direct role in detecting and destroying abnormal cells without requiring prior activation. The activity of NK cells is often reduced due to inhibitory signals.
What is the link between the immune system and multiple myeloma?
As the disease originates in plasma cells, the immune system and multiple myeloma are intricately linked. As bone marrow health is important for the immune system, when cancerous cells are developed in the bone marrow, it affects the immune system.
The bone marrow type plays an important role in the development of multiple myeloma, as this is a main source of proliferating plasma cells. This is the link between the immune system and multiple myeloma.
Conclusion
Multiple myeloma is a complex disease that directly impacts bone health, which is important for the immune system. Recognizing this process and understanding the need for therapies in advance helps to avoid further complications. Protecting against infection helps us more to avoid problems that affect the immune system.