Multiple myeloma: A Review on Pathogenesis, Clinical features and Management

Multiple myeloma is the most common type of primary bone tumor. The typical clinical features of MM are bone pain, weakness, fatigue, fever and infection. Although it is currently not curable, recent advancements in treatment are bringing myeloma closer to become a chronic disease instead of a terminal illness. Current imaging technologies and marrow studies with magnetic imaging have improved detection of the extent and location of disease in multiple myeloma patients. During the past few years there have exciting developments in our understanding of pathogenesis of myeloma bone disease. Key mediators of the osteoclastic bone resorption in myeloma have been identified including, receptor activator of nuclear factor-kB ligand (RANKL) and macrophage inflammatory protein-1 alpha.