Myeloma Overview

Early Diagnosis Essential

Myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells. Plasma cells are white blood cells that are part of your immune system. They are found in your body tissue, mostly in the bone marrow.

In myeloma, a developing plasma cell becomes malignant. As the number of malignant plasma cells increases, normal blood cell production is disrupted. This destroys normal bone tissue and causes pain. This process often includes the production of a “paraprotein,” which can cause kidney problems and weaken your immune system.

Most myelomas are “multiple,” which means they affect many areas of the body. The average age of diagnosis is 67. People under age 45 rarely get it. Myeloma is difficult to treat, so early diagnosis is key.

The three main types of myeloma are:

• Smoldering Myeloma (also called Indolent Myeloma)
• Secretory Myeloma
• Nonsecretory Myeloma

Other names for myeloma:

• Kahler Disease
• Myelomatosis
• Plasma Cell Myeloma

The myeloma specialists at the University of Kansas Cancer Center are among the leaders in the field. They work as a team to provide you with the latest advances in prevention, diagnosis, treatment and resources.

Why You Should Choose The University of Kansas Cancer Center

Experience
If you have myeloma, you will find the leading specialists you need at The University of Kansas Cancer Center. Our interdisciplinary team of oncologists and hematologists have years of experience treating patients with all types of myeloma. Other very specialized doctors who may be involved in your care include radiation oncologists and the bone marrow transplant team.

Academic Approach
Because we are an academic center, we offer some of the region's most advanced cancer treatments. We are constantly finding new treatments to improve lives. We use state-of-the-art techniques and technologies to improve patient outcomes and reduce side effects. We also use the latest findings in cancer research. Treatment options incorporate the latest chemotherapies, biological therapies and radiation treatments. We also perform blood and marrow transplantation. 

Community 
Our staff also are accustomed to working with community health care providers. In many cases, you can receive some of your treatment near your own home in coordination with the staff at The University of Kansas Cancer Center.

Care Coordination
Each person is unique, so we tailor your care to your personal needs. This means doctors, nurses and other staff work closely together. They discuss every patient’s treatment as a team to stay up to date on your care and treatment. 

Clinical Trials
We are part of many national clinical trials on cancer treatment. So, you benefit from our staff’s exposure to the latest options. You also may be able to take part in a clinical trial for myeloma during your treatment.

To Make an Appointment:
Call: 913.588.1227
Toll free: 800.332.6048

Referring Physicians:
Call: 913.588.5862 
Toll free: 877.588.5862