Multiple myeloma, a form of cancer, was described by the Austrian physician Otto Kahler. Therefore, this disease is also known as Kahler’s disease. Symptoms of multiple myeloma include bone deterioration, kidney problems, recurrent infections and anemia, for example leading to fatigue. Patients often remain undiagnosed because these symptoms are quite generic.
Multiple myeloma occurs when plasma cells, a specific type of white blood cells, start growing in an uncontrolled way. These cells end up in the bone marrow and thereby damage the bones. In the bone marrow, all types of blood cells are produced. Because of the cancerous plasma cells, this process is disturbed and may lead to a shortage of healthy blood cells. This can cause fatigue, anemia and recurrent infections. Kidney damage can occur as a consequence of increased protein production in the cancer cells.
March is multiple myeloma month
More than 750 Belgians are diagnosed each year <1>. Janssen makes an effort to create a world without multiple myeloma and early diagnosis plays an important role. With the campaign “Cancer. Now what?” we want to raise awareness for Kahler’s disease through our social media channels. Will you join the conversation?
Would you like to get more information or get in touch with other patients? Please visit the Contactgroup Myeloma and Waldenström
1 https://www.kanker.be/alles-over-kanker/alle-types-kanker/multipel-myeloom-ziekte-van-Kahler