Multiple Myeloma (MM)
Multiple Myeloma (MM) is a cancer that affects a type of white blood cells called plasma cells that are specialized mature B cells, which secrete antibodies to combat infections. Multiple myeloma is characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of neoplastic plasma cells in the bone marrow, where they overcrowd healthy blood cells. Although MM is a chronic disease and an exact cause has not yet been identified, researchers have made significant progress over the years in managing the disease through better understanding MM's pathophysiology.
In the last decade, the median survival rate of multiple myeloma patients has markedly improved, but each patient is unique depending on various factors: the stage of the disease, cytogenetic abnormalities, and response to therapy. However, despite this progress, many patients need additional options to treat their disease in order to manage it effectively. The progress in finding a cure needs to be continued as The American Cancer Society estimates that 32,270 new cases of MM will be diagnosed, and 12,830 deaths are expected to occur in 2020 in the U.S. alone.