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Infections Caused by Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is defined as a cancer of plasma cells found inside the bone marrow. The reason why this type of cancer is specified as "multiple" myeloma is because the cancer is found in different bones throughout the body. However, in most cases, cancer is found in bones of the upper arms, pelvis, thighs and back. One of the most common effects of multiple myeloma is recurring infections. The Myeloma Organization states that individuals with the disease are 15 times more likely to suffer from recurrent infections than others. Infections are caused by the lack of white cells in the body, caused by the cancer. Fewer white cells equates to lower resistance or immunity to illness and other disease processes.

  1. Pneumonia

    • Bacterial pneumonia is a common infection that individuals diagnosed with multiple myeloma share. Bacterial pneumonia causes inflammation of the lungs and a buildup of fluid in the air sacs that cause difficulty breathing.

    Urinary Tract Infections

    • Urinary tract infections, also commonly known as UTIs, are also common among individuals diagnosed with multiple pneumonia. Bacteria in the kidney or urinary system is caused by inflammation of the bladder. Inflammation is a bodily reaction to bacterial infection.

    Shingles

    • Shingles are an infectious condition caused by the same virus that causes chicken-pox virus. Because those diagnosed with multiple myeloma suffer from a compromised immune system and defenses, any virus or bacterial infection is caught more easily than by healthy individuals. The shingles virus causes painful rash and fluid-filled blisters.

    Sinusitis

    • Sinusitis is caused by an inflammation of the sinus cavities of the nasal passages. A buildup of fluids within the nasal cavities causes an increase in pressure of sinus cavity walls, reduces breathing capacity, and may also lead to earaches and throat pain.

    Treating Infections

    • In most cases, your physician will treat infections with antibiotics. The National Cancer Institute generally recommends treatment by ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole for various bacterial infections caused by multiple myeloma.

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