Myeloma Nurse Learning Programme Module 2 – Pathogenesis of myeloma

Module 2 – Pathogenesis of myeloma

Summary of module

This module provides an overview of normal plasma cell and immunoglobulin production and describes the mechanisms by which myeloma develops and progresses. It outlines the cytogenetic and molecular abnormalities characteristic of myeloma cells and also covers the cytokines known to be important in their proliferation.

An understanding of the pathogenesis (the origins and effects of a disease) of myeloma is very important for nurses and will help them to build on knowledge they already have of the disease process.

Myeloma is a complex disease and to provide optimum support to their patients, it is important for nurses to: understand why myeloma occurs, be able to relate this to their patients’ diagnosis, symptoms and treatment, and facilitate the information needs of patients who want to know about the pathogenesis of myeloma.

Learning outcomes

After successfully completing this module you will be able to:

Outline the development of plasma cells in the bone marrow and the pathogenesis of myeloma
Differentiate between the structure and classes of immunoglobulins
Recognise the significance of cytogenetic factors in myeloma and the need for nurses to be able to communicate competently with patients about prognosis
Gain an appreciation of the key cytokine interactions within the bone marrow environment in myeloma