What Is Multiple Myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that originates in plasma cells, a kind of white blood cell found in bone marrow. These cells play a critical role in the immune system by producing antibodies to fight infections. In multiple myeloma, abnormal plasma cells multiply uncontrollably, crowding out normal cells and leading to significant health issues, such as weakened bones, kidney dysfunction, and a compromised immune system.
What Are the Stages of Multiple Myeloma?
The progression of multiple myeloma is classified into three stages:
- Stage I: Early-stage disease with relatively low levels of abnormal cells and minimal organ damage.
- Stage II: Intermediate stage where abnormal cells are increasing, and organ damage may start to become apparent.
- Stage III: Advanced stage with high levels of abnormal cells, significant organ damage, and potentially severe complications.
How Common Is Multiple Myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is a relatively rare cancer, accounting for about 1.8% of all cancers and 17% of blood cancers in the United States. Each year, approximately 35,000 new cases are diagnosed, and nearly 12,000 deaths occur due to this disease.
Who Is Most at Risk of Getting Multiple Myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is most common in older adults, with the majority of cases diagnosed in individuals over the age of 65. Men are slightly more likely than women to develop the disease. African Americans have a twofold higher risk compared to other racial groups.
What Are the Risk Factors for Multiple Myeloma?
While the exact cause of multiple myeloma remains unknown, several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease:
- Age: Risk increases with age, particularly after 60.
- Family History: A history of multiple myeloma in close relatives.
- Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS): A precursor condition that can develop into multiple myeloma.
- Exposure to Chemicals: Prolonged exposure to toxic substances like benzene.
- Obesity: Higher body weight is associated with increased risk.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma?
Symptoms of multiple myeloma vary but often include:
- Persistent bone pain, especially in the back or ribs
- Unexplained fractures
- Fatigue and weakness due to anemia
- Frequent infections
- High levels of calcium in the blood, leading to nausea, thirst, and confusion
- Kidney dysfunction
- Unexplained weight loss
What Are the Screening Guidelines for Multiple Myeloma?
There are no standard screening tests for asymptomatic individuals. However, those with risk factors or precursor conditions like MGUS should undergo regular monitoring, including blood and urine tests, to detect early signs of progression.
What Are the Diagnostic Testing Guidelines Following an Abnormal Screening?
If screening tests suggest abnormalities, further diagnostic evaluations include:
- Blood Tests: To check for abnormal protein levels, anemia, and kidney function.
- Urine Tests: To detect Bence-Jones proteins associated with multiple myeloma.
- Bone Marrow Biopsy: To confirm the presence of cancerous plasma cells.
- Imaging Studies: X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to identify bone damage or lesions.
What Are the Steps in Diagnosing Multiple Myeloma?
Diagnosis typically involves:
- Comprehensive medical history and physical examination.
- Blood and urine tests to identify markers of multiple myeloma.
- Imaging studies to assess bone health.
- Bone marrow biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and stage the disease.
What Is the Impact of Delayed Diagnosis of Multiple Myeloma?
Delayed diagnosis can lead to:
- Advanced disease at the time of treatment initiation
- Greater risk of severe complications, including fractures and kidney failure
- Reduced treatment options and poorer prognosis
- Increased emotional and financial burden on patients and their families
What Is the Treatment for Multiple Myeloma?
Treatment depends on the stage and overall health of the patient but often includes:
- Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells
- Immunotherapy to boost the immune response
- Targeted therapy to attack specific cancerous cells
- Stem cell transplants to replace damaged bone marrow
- Radiation therapy for pain management and bone lesions
When Is a Delay in Diagnosis and Treatment of Multiple Myeloma Due to Medical Malpractice?
A delay in diagnosis and treatment may constitute medical malpractice if it results from negligence, such as failing to recognize and act on early symptoms or risk factors, ignoring abnormal test results, or delaying referrals to specialists or appropriate diagnostic tests. These oversights can have catastrophic consequences for patients, significantly reducing their treatment options and overall prognosis.
In cases where there is a significant delay in diagnosis and treatment of multiple myeloma, there can be severe consequences for patients. Examples of such delays include:
- a physician might dismiss persistent bone pain as arthritis without ordering further tests, thereby delaying the identification of cancer.
- a lab error might postpone the reporting of abnormal blood test results,
- a specialist might fail to act on imaging studies showing potential bone lesions.
These oversights emphasize the importance of thorough and proactive medical care.
If you suspect that medical negligence caused a delayed diagnosis of multiple myeloma, you should take immediate action. Contact an experienced medical malpractice law firm like Lupetin & Unatin. Our team can help evaluate your case and fight for justice and compensation. We understand the devastating consequences of these delays and are dedicated to holding negligent healthcare providers accountable. If you suspect that medical negligence caused a delayed diagnosis, contact an experienced medical malpractice law firm like Lupetin & Unatin. Our team can help evaluate your case and fight for justice and compensation.
Lawsuit Settlements or Verdicts Involving Delayed Diagnosis of Multiple Myeloma
- A $2.5 million settlement in Illinois for delayed diagnosis leading to advanced disease. In this case, the patient experienced months of persistent symptoms, including bone pain and fatigue, which were dismissed as unrelated ailments by their primary care physician. Diagnostic testing was delayed until the disease had progressed significantly, leading to limited treatment options.
- A $3.1 million verdict in California where failure to order diagnostic tests resulted in significant harm. Here, a patient’s abnormal bloodwork results showing elevated protein levels were overlooked, delaying the diagnosis for over a year. By the time treatment began, the patient’s kidneys had suffered irreversible damage.
- A $1.8 million settlement in Texas for misinterpretation of imaging studies. Radiological scans showing bone lesions were incorrectly reported as benign changes, leading to a critical delay in further diagnostic evaluation and initiation of treatment.
- A $4.2 million verdict in New York due to delayed referral to an oncologist. Despite persistent and worsening symptoms, a patient’s general practitioner failed to refer them to a specialist. By the time the referral was made, the patient had developed multiple organ complications, severely impacting their prognosis.
How Lupetin & Unatin Can Help
At Lupetin & Unatin, we have extensive experience handling cases of delayed diagnosis and treatment cancer including multiple myeloma. We understand the devastating impact these delays can have and are committed to holding negligent healthcare providers accountable. If you or a loved one has been harmed by medical negligence, contact us today for a consultation.