In situ hybridization probes - Multiple Myeloma (MM)

Multiple myeloma is a rare disease that represents about 2%  of all cancers.

Multiple myeloma, or plasma cell myeloma, is a cancer of plasma cells. Normal plasma cells are a type of white blood cells found in the bone marrow and are an important part of the immune system. 

In multiple myeloma, malignant plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow (the soft, spongy tissue at the center of your bones), crowding out the normal plasma cells that help fight infection. These malignant plasma cells then produce an abnormal antibody called M protein, which offers no benefit to the body and may cause tumors, kidney damage, bone destruction, and impaired immune function. The hallmark characteristic of multiple myeloma is a high level of M protein in the blood.

Often, no symptoms are noticed initially but when the disease advance, bone pain, bleeding, frequent infections and anemia may occur.