Myeloma, also called multiple myeloma, is a type of blood cancer that begins in plasma cells, which are specialized white blood cells found in the bone marrow. Under normal conditions, plasma cells produce antibodies to help the body fight infections. In myeloma, these cells multiply abnormally and create large amounts of an unusual protein known as M-protein, which can damage vital organs and weaken the immune system. As the disease progresses, it interferes with the production of healthy blood cells, leading to anemia, recurrent infections, bone damage, and kidney problems.

The exact cause of myeloma is not fully understood, but certain factors increase risk, including age (most cases occur after 60), family history of blood cancers, male gender, obesity, prolonged chemical or radiation exposure, and precursor conditions such as Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS). Early symptoms are often subtle but may include persistent bone pain, especially in the spine or ribs, repeated infections, unexplained fatigue, kidney dysfunction, and fractures caused by weakened bones. Because symptoms can resemble other illnesses, diagnosis often requires blood and urine tests, bone marrow biopsy, imaging studies, and genetic testing.