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Introduction
Melanoma is a cancer that originates in skin cells
called melanocytes. When this type of serious cancer
occurs, it invades bone marrow and metastasizes
(spread) to other bones, while secreting abnormal
Proteins called paraproteins (abnormal antibodies).
The horde of excess plasma cells also tends to
discourage production of other white blood cells,
leaving the body vulnerable to infections. And the
disease may also damage the kidneys, eventually
leading to kidney failure.
Causes
There is no known cause. However, we do know that
the disease usually strikes after age 50. Certain
kinds of injury to the skin, such as sunburns, can
affect the chemical process through which the
melanocytes produce melanin. When this occurs, the
melanocytes change into cancer cells, which reproduce
at an uncontrollable rate.
Symptoms
Frequently, the first sign of multiple myeloma is
bone pain due to bony destruction by plasma cells. The
bone pain associated with myeloma can be very intense
and may occur with motion or at rest.
Other symptoms at this stage include:
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Broken bones
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Weakness
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Fatigue
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Weight loss
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Frequent infections
Treatment
To treat melanoma, your doctor will surgically remove
the cancerous growth. If the cancer has not spread
beyond the growth area, you will need to see your
doctor for regular skin examinations, protect yourself
from sun exposure, and carefully examine your own skin
on a regular basis so you can quickly identify any
suspicious areas. If the cancer has metastasized,
treatment depends upon the location and stage of the
cancer.
You may require further surgery, radiation,
chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. However, melanoma is
often resistant to radiation and chemotherapy.
Since
all therapy can be associated with side effects,
therapy is generally reserved for patients with
symptomatic myeloma and not administered to patients
with indolent, or non-aggressive disease. The choice
of therapy also depends on the age and general health
of the patient.
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