PATHOGENESIS Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is multiple myeloma?
A blood cancer that develops in the bone marrow, affecting plasma cells
What causes hypercalcaemia in MM?
myeloma cells release cytokines that cause osteoclasts to break down bone tissue faster than normal, releasing calcium into bloodstream
Why is the kidney affected in multiple myeloma?
Abnormal protein produced by MM cells can block the tubules by joining with another one, preventing urine from flowing causing damage
What does CRAB stand for?
CALCIUM
RENAL IMPAIRMENT
ANEAMIA
BONE DAMAGE
Why do patients with MM become anaemic?
Because cancer cells are growing in the bone marrow, crowding out healthy cells
Why does myeloma cause bone pain?
Myeloma cells disrupt normal process for maintaining bones by activating other cells in the marrow
How does the progression of MM begin?
With an asymptomatic precursor MGUS - body produces a paraprotein
What can cause MM?
Mutations, chromosomal translocations, bone marrow micro environment
Why is the bone marrow micro environment essential for the development and progression of MM?
MM cells interact with bone marrow micro environment allowing cells to proliferate, migrate and survive
What are the main mutations in MM?
KRAS, NRAS, TP53
Which mutation has a reduced response to bortezomib?
NRAS - part of the MAPK pathway and enhanced proteasome assembly, promoting cell survival
Why do TP53 mutations occur?
found in conjunction with the deletion of a chromosome which is a risk for MM
What is the role of CD38 in MM?
a glycoprotein that acts as a receptor
What is the role of CD56 in MM?
CD56 helps MM cells stick to bone marrow and involved in tumour growth
What is the role of CD138 of MM?
a glycoprotein that regulates growth and survival of myeloma cells
