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What Is Bone Marrow Cancer?

Bone marrow cancer refers to a group of cancers that begin in the spongy tissue inside your bones—called the bone marrow—where blood cells are produced. This type of cancer disrupts the normal production of blood cells and can lead to serious health complications. The most common types of bone marrow cancer include multiple myeloma, leukemia, and lymphoma when they begin in or affect the marrow. Each type behaves differently and requires a tailored treatment plan.

How Does Bone Marrow Cancer Develop?

Bone marrow cancer develops when abnormal cells in the marrow begin to grow uncontrollably. These cancerous cells outnumber healthy cells and crowd them out, interfering with the production of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. As the cancer progresses, it can weaken the immune system, cause anemia, and lead to bleeding or bruising easily. Some forms, like multiple myeloma, also cause bone pain and fractures due to damage to the bone structure itself.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Bone Marrow Cancer?

Symptoms of bone marrow cancer vary depending on the specific type but commonly include fatigue, frequent infections, unexplained weight loss, bone pain, and easy bruising or bleeding. In multiple myeloma, patients may also experience kidney problems and high calcium levels. Because these symptoms can overlap with other less serious conditions, it’s important to undergo proper diagnostic testing if bone marrow cancer is suspected.

How Is Bone Marrow Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosing bone marrow cancer involves a combination of physical exams, blood tests, imaging studies (like X-rays, MRI, or PET scans), and most critically, a bone marrow biopsy. This procedure involves extracting a small sample of bone marrow—usually from the hipbone—for examination under a microscope. Specialized tests can then determine the type of cancer, its genetic makeup, and its aggressiveness, which helps guide treatment decisions.

How Is Bone Marrow Cancer Treated?

Treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Common treatments include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and in some cases, a bone marrow or stem cell transplant. A transplant replaces damaged marrow with healthy stem cells and is often used in multiple myeloma and some leukemias. Treatment may also involve supportive care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

What Is a Bone Marrow or Stem Cell Transplant?

A bone marrow transplant is a procedure used to replace diseased or damaged marrow with healthy stem cells. These stem cells can come from the patient (autologous transplant) or a donor (allogeneic transplant). Before the transplant, patients usually receive high-dose chemotherapy to destroy the cancer cells. This procedure is complex and requires close monitoring but can significantly improve outcomes in eligible patients.