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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Leukemia and Multiple Myeloma?

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Leukemia and multiple myeloma are both cancers of the blood, bone marrow, or lymph, but they are different in terms of the cells they affect and their characteristics. Here are the main differences between leukemia and multiple myeloma:

  • Origin: Leukemia begins in bone marrow, producing abnormal leukocytes (white blood cells). Multiple myeloma develops in bone marrow, producing abnormal plasma cells.
  • Cell Type: Leukemia affects a type of immature blood cell, while multiple myeloma affects plasma cells, which are specialized cells that produce antibodies.
  • Circulation: Unlike leukemia, myeloma cells typically do not circulate in the bloodstream but usually stay in the bone marrow.
  • Symptoms: Some symptoms of leukemia include easy bleeding, bruising, fever, and weight loss. Multiple myeloma may cause bone pain, especially in the chest or spine, confusion, constipation, extreme thirst, fatigue, nausea, lack of appetite, and weakness or numbness.
  • Treatment: The treatment for leukemia and multiple myeloma is different, as they target different types of cells and use various methods, such as targeted therapy drugs, biologic or immunotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplant, and surgery.

In summary, leukemia and multiple myeloma are both blood cancers with distinct differences in the cells they affect, their characteristics, and their treatments.

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  • What is the Difference Between Leukemia and Multiple Myeloma?
  • Comparative Table: Leukemia vs Multiple Myeloma

    • Comparative Table: Leukemia vs Multiple Myeloma

    Here is a table comparing the differences between leukemia and multiple myeloma:

    Feature Leukemia Multiple Myeloma
    Definition Leukemia is a cancer of the blood-forming cells, affecting both the bone marrow and blood. It can be acute or chronic, and its types include acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and others. Multiple myeloma is a cancer that starts in the plasma cells in the bone marrow and affects the production of antibodies.
    Symptoms Fatigue, weakness, weight loss, tender or painful bones, swollen lymph nodes, fevers, night sweats, shortness of breath, cough, itchy skin. Bone pain, especially in the chest or spine, confusion, constipation, extreme thirst, fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, weakness or numbness, unexplained weight loss.
    Treatment Chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplantation, and immunotherapy. Treatment options vary, but may include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, stem cell transplantation, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.
    Prognosis The prognosis for leukemia depends on the type, stage, and treatment response. Some forms of leukemia have a better prognosis than others. The prognosis for multiple myeloma varies, but generally has a shorter survival rate compared to typical multiple myeloma.

    Keep in mind that these are general overviews and individual cases may vary. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a personalized evaluation and treatment plan.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of SĂŁo Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.