National Myeloma Day

Hey there, folks! Grab your lab coats and stethoscopes because it's time to celebrate National Myeloma Day!

When is Myeloma Day?

It's national myeloma day on the 9th May.

The Internet History of National Myeloma Day

Roll out the red carpet for this special day, my friends! National Myeloma Day is all about raising awareness and support for those affected by multiple myeloma, a type of cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow. It's a day to honor the warriors who fight this disease and bring attention to the importance of research and advancements in treatment options.

So, how did this day come to be? Well, let me take you on a journey through the internet archives! It all started with a group of dedicated individuals who saw the need to create a day dedicated to myeloma awareness. They rallied together, spreading the word through online communities and social media platforms. Soon enough, National Myeloma Day became a recognized event that took place annually on May 9th.

Throughout the years, the internet has played a key role in amplifying the message of National Myeloma Day. Bloggers, influencers, and organizations came together to share stories of hope, information about resources, and ways to get involved. The online myeloma community flourished, providing a virtual support network for patients, survivors, and their loved ones.

On National Myeloma Day, you'll find a sea of blue ribbons flooding your newsfeeds as people unite to support this cause. Hashtags like #MyelomaAwareness and #FightMyeloma trend across social media platforms, connecting individuals from all corners of the globe. The internet becomes a hub of knowledge, inspiration, and a reminder that no one fights alone.

Did You Know?

Here's a fun fact to lighten the mood: Did you know that multiple myeloma affects more men than women? It seems this sneaky disease has a strong preference for our male counterparts. Maybe it's just jealous of their dapper mustaches or stylish bowties.

History behind the term 'Myeloma'

1844

Discovery of Multiple Myeloma

In 1844, Dr. Samuel Solly first described multiple myeloma as a disease characterized by the presence of abnormal cells in bone marrow. Dr. Solly noticed an increase in the number of plasma cells in the bone marrow of patients suffering from bone pain and fractures. These abnormal cells were named 'myeloma cells', derived from the Greek word 'myelos' meaning marrow.

1844

Identification of abnormal plasma cells

In 1844, the term 'myeloma' was first used by Gustav Rust, a German pathologist. Rust was the first to identify abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow of a patient with multiple bone tumors. He named the condition 'myeloma' by combining the Greek words 'mys' (marrow) and 'oma' (tumor). This marked the beginning of the formal recognition of myeloma as a distinct disease.

1844

Discovery of Plasmacytoma

In 1844, a German pathologist named Dr. Otto Kahler first described a rare cancerous tumor known as plasmacytoma. This tumor was characterized by abnormal plasma cells found in the bone marrow. Dr. Kahler's observations paved the way for further understanding of the disease.

1844

Discovery of bone marrow cancer

In 1844, a British physician named Samuel Solly discovered a new type of cancer affecting the bone marrow. He named this cancer 'myeloma' after the Greek words 'myelo' meaning marrow and 'oma' meaning tumor. This marked the first step in understanding and categorizing this specific type of cancer.

1844

Discovery of Myeloma

In 1844, the term 'myeloma' was first used by the British physician Sir Samuel Wilks. He discovered an unusual tumor in the bone marrow and named it 'myeloma,' derived from the Greek words 'myelos' meaning marrow and 'oma' meaning tumor.

1844

Discovery of Myeloma Cells

In 1844, a Scottish physician named James Ewing first described and identified abnormal cells in the bone marrow of patients with multiple myeloma. He named these cells 'myeloma cells', derived from the Greek words 'myelo' meaning marrow and 'oma' meaning tumor.

1848

Discovery of Myeloma

In 1848, the term 'myeloma' was coined by the English physician Sir Edward W. S. Reynolds. He used the term to describe a previously unidentified bone marrow tumor that he observed during post-mortem examinations. Reynolds derived the term from the Greek words 'myelo' meaning 'marrow' and 'oma' meaning 'tumor'. This marked the first step in identifying and understanding the disease now known as multiple myeloma.

1844

Discovery of amyloidosis

In the year 1844, a physician by the name of Rudolf Virchow discovered a group of diseases characterized by abnormal protein deposits in various organs. He named this condition amyloidosis, after the waxy appearance of the deposits, which resembled starch when treated with iodine.

1844

Discovery of myeloma

In 1844, the term 'myeloma' was first used by renowned English physician Sir Samuel Wilks. He identified a case of multiple myeloma, a rare type of cancer that affects plasma cells. The name 'myeloma' was derived from the Greek words 'myelo' meaning bone marrow and 'oma' referring to a tumor.

1844

Discovery of a rare bone tumor

In 1844, a London surgeon named Samuel Solly observed a peculiar bone tumor during an autopsy. The tumor, found in the vertebrae, had a jelly-like texture, which led Solly to name it 'myeloma,' derived from the Greek words 'myelo' meaning marrow and 'oma' meaning tumor.

1873

Recognition as a Plasma Cell Disorder

In 1873, the German pathologist Otto Kahler recognized myeloma as a distinct disease. Kahler described the clinical spectrum of myeloma and identified the characteristic features, including proliferation of plasma cells, bone destruction, and production of abnormal proteins by malignant cells.

1873

Identification of multiple myeloma

In 1873, German pathologist Otto Kahler made a significant advancement in the understanding of myeloma. He identified multiple cases of myeloma, presenting with various symptoms such as bone pain and fractures, anemia, and kidney problems. Kahler's research helped establish myeloma as a distinct disease entity.

1873

Identification of Multiple Myeloma

In 1873, Dr. Samuel Solly, a British surgeon, used the term 'multiple myeloma' to describe a condition where multiple tumors of plasmacytoma were present in a single patient. The term 'myeloma' derived from the Greek word 'myelos,' meaning marrow, indicating the disease's origin in the bone marrow.

1873

Advancements in understanding

Throughout the late 19th century, researchers made significant advancements in understanding myeloma. German pathologist Gustav von Rustizky provided detailed descriptions of the disease, including its characteristic bone marrow involvement. His work laid the foundation for further research and diagnosis.

1848

Identification of myeloma cells

In 1848, pathologist Samuel Wilks made an important observation while studying the bone marrow of a patient with amyloidosis. He noticed peculiar cells that had not been described before, which he called myeloma cells due to their presence in the bone marrow (myelos in Greek means marrow). These cells were found to be related to the formation of the abnormal protein deposits.

1873

Description of bone destruction

In 1873, Henry Bence Jones, an English physician and chemist, described the bone destruction associated with myeloma. He observed that myeloma cells secreted a substance that resulted in the breakdown of bone tissues. This discovery helped to further understand the pathology and progression of the disease.

1873

Defining Multiple Myeloma

In 1873, a German physician named Otto Kahler published a detailed description of multiple myeloma as a distinct disease. He elucidated its clinical manifestations, including bone pain, anemia, and kidney involvement. Kahler's work played a pivotal role in establishing multiple myeloma as a recognized medical condition.

1873

Identification of multiple myeloma

Nearly three decades later, in 1873, a German physician named Otto Kahler described a case of myeloma with widespread bone lesions. Kahler recognized that it was a distinct form of myeloma where multiple bone sites were affected, and thus coined the term 'multiple myeloma.' This marked an important milestone in understanding the disease.

1850

Recognition of Plasma Cells

In 1850, a German pathologist named Rudolf Virchow identified the plasma cells present in the bone marrow of individuals with myeloma. This discovery shed light on the underlying mechanism of the disease and its connection to abnormalities in plasma cells. Virchow's recognition of plasma cells paved the way for subsequent research and understanding of multiple myeloma.

1873

Identification of Bence Jones Protein

In 1873, Dr. Henry Bence Jones made a significant breakthrough in understanding myeloma. He discovered a unique protein in the urine of patients with myeloma, which was later named the 'Bence Jones protein'. This discovery was crucial in diagnosing and monitoring the disease.

1932

Distinctive Features Recognized

In 1932, Drs. William Macdonald and Henry Stewart recognized several distinctive features of multiple myeloma. They noted the excessive proliferation of plasma cells, the presence of abnormal proteins in the blood and urine, and associated symptoms such as bone pain, fatigue, and anemia. These findings helped differentiate multiple myeloma from other plasma cell disorders.

1975

Identification of Serum M Protein

In 1975, researchers made a breakthrough by identifying monoclonal immunoglobulin, specifically IgG or IgA, present in the blood serum of myeloma patients. This protein, often referred to as 'M protein', is a hallmark of multiple myeloma and can be used for diagnostic purposes.

1971

Discovery of monoclonal protein

It wasn't until 1971 that the presence of monoclonal protein was identified in myeloma patients. Raymond Alexanian, an American hematologist, and oncologist discovered that myeloma cells produced a single type of immunoglobulin (a type of antibody) known as the monoclonal protein. This finding played a crucial role in the diagnosis and monitoring of myeloma.

1922

Understanding the Role of Monoclonal Antibodies

In 1922, French physician Henri Marie Lenègre described the presence of a specific protein in the blood of patients with myeloma. This protein, later known as a monoclonal antibody, was found to be produced by the malignant plasma cells. Understanding the role of monoclonal antibodies in multiple myeloma became a significant breakthrough in diagnosing and treating the disease.

1954

Confirmation of clonal plasma cell origin

In 1954, American hematologist Robert A. Kyle confirmed that myeloma originates from abnormal plasma cells. He found that these plasma cells produce excessive amounts of monoclonal immunoglobulin, leading to the characteristic symptoms of myeloma. This discovery shed light on the cellular origins of myeloma and opened doors for further research and treatments.

1873

Introduction of the term 'myeloma'

It was not until 1873 that German pathologist Otto Kahler formally introduced the term 'myeloma.' Kahler used this term to describe the presence of myeloma cells in the bone marrow, which he identified as a distinct disease entity.

1970

Discovery of monoclonal gammopathy

In the 1970s, Henry Kunkel and his colleagues discovered an abnormal protein, known as a monoclonal protein or M-protein, in the blood of myeloma patients. This finding was crucial for diagnosis as it provided a characteristic marker for multiple myeloma. The detection of M-proteins became a standard diagnostic tool in the following years.

1904

Discovery of Bence Jones Protein

In 1904, the English physician Henry Bence Jones discovered an abnormal protein in the urine of patients with myeloma. This protein, now known as the Bence Jones protein, provided a crucial diagnostic marker for the disease and helped differentiate myeloma from other conditions.

1948

Definition of multiple myeloma

In 1948, renowned American hematologist Ernest L. Walker played a key role in defining multiple myeloma as a distinct entity from other types of plasma cell tumors. He outlined its clinical features, including abnormal protein production, bone lesions, anemia, and kidney dysfunction.

1971

Redefining Myeloma

Myeloma was further defined and classified in 1971 by Dr. Robert Kyle and Dr. Charles A. Smith. They established diagnostic criteria and introduced the term 'multiple myeloma' to emphasize the presence of multiple bone lesions often seen in the disease. This helped differentiate it from other conditions affecting bone marrow.

1960s

Advancements in diagnosing myeloma

During the 1960s, with the development of techniques like electrophoresis and immunofixation, scientists gained better tools for diagnosing and monitoring myeloma. These methods allowed the identification of abnormal immunoglobulins in the blood and urine, enabling more accurate diagnosis and staging of the disease.

1997

Introduction of novel therapies

The year 1997 marked a significant milestone in myeloma treatment with the introduction of novel therapies. The advent of drugs like thalidomide and bortezomib revolutionized the management of myeloma. These targeted therapies specifically attacked myeloma cells, improving survival rates and providing new hope for patients.

1950

Discovery of Serum Protein Electrophoresis

In the 1950s, the introduction of serum protein electrophoresis by Swedish biochemist Arne Tiselius greatly advanced the understanding of multiple myeloma. This technique allowed researchers to identify and classify different types of abnormal proteins (monoclonal proteins or M proteins) present in the blood and urine of myeloma patients.

1950s

Chemotherapy and treatment advancements

During the 1950s, chemotherapy emerged as a viable treatment option for myeloma. Researchers found success with drugs like melphalan, leading to improved survival rates. This marked a significant breakthrough in the battle against myeloma, offering patients new hope.

1954

Introduction of Chemotherapy

In 1954, the first effective chemotherapy drug for myeloma was introduced. Aminopterin, a folic acid antagonist, showed promising results in treating the disease. This marked a significant milestone in the management of myeloma, offering patients a potential treatment option for the first time.

1990

Introduction of Stem Cell Transplantation

In the 1990s, the introduction of high-dose chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplantation revolutionized the treatment of multiple myeloma. This approach allowed for the use of higher doses of chemotherapy, which can be more effective in killing myeloma cells, followed by the infusion of healthy stem cells to restore the patient's immune system.

1971

Introduction of Chemotherapy for Myeloma

In 1971, the introduction of melphalan, a chemotherapy drug, revolutionized the treatment of multiple myeloma. Melphalan proved to be effective in reducing tumor growth and improving patients' quality of life. This marked a significant milestone in the management of myeloma and opened doors for further advancements in chemotherapy and targeted therapies.

1954

Understanding the role of immunoglobulins

In 1954, researchers discovered that myeloma cells produce abnormal immunoglobulins, also known as antibodies. These abnormal immunoglobulins, called monoclonal proteins, were found to be an integral part of the disease process. This finding led to a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms and laid the foundation for future advancements in myeloma research and treatment.

2003

Enhanced Understanding of Myeloma Genetics

In the early 2000s, advancements in genetic analysis techniques allowed scientists to gain a deeper understanding of the genetic abnormalities associated with myeloma. This knowledge led to the identification of specific genetic alterations, such as chromosomal translocations involving the immunoglobulin genes, which are characteristic of myeloma. These discoveries have contributed to targeted therapies and personalized treatment approaches for patients.

1997

Identification of genetic alterations

Genetic studies played a significant role in unraveling the complexity of myeloma. In 1997, two independent research groups, Gareth Morgan and Bart Barlogie's team, identified a genetic abnormality called the t(4;14) translocation in a subset of myeloma patients. This discovery shed light on the molecular mechanisms involved in myeloma development, paving the way for targeted therapies.

1997

Thalidomide's Impact on Myeloma Treatment

In 1997, thalidomide, a drug previously known for its controversial history, re-emerged as a potential treatment for multiple myeloma. Clinical trials demonstrated that thalidomide, when used in combination with other therapies, could effectively suppress the progression of myeloma. This finding offered new hope to patients and added another weapon to the arsenal against the disease.

1975

Advances in treatment options

Year 1975 saw a significant milestone in myeloma treatment. A multidrug chemotherapy regimen known as VAD (vincristine, doxorubicin, and dexamethasone) was introduced, which demonstrated improved response rates and increased survival for patients. This breakthrough marked the beginning of a new era in myeloma treatment and paved the way for further advancements.

2003

Advancements in stem cell transplantation

In 2003, advancements in stem cell transplantation greatly improved outcomes for myeloma patients. High-dose chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplantation became a standard treatment approach, allowing for the potential eradication of myeloma cells and prolonging survival. This technique opened up new avenues for patients and contributed to significant progress in the field.

2003

Introduction of novel therapies

Advances in understanding the biology of myeloma led to the development and introduction of novel therapeutic strategies. In 2003, the first-in-class drug bortezomib, a proteasome inhibitor, was approved for the treatment of relapsed or refractory myeloma. This marked a paradigm shift in myeloma therapy and opened doors for other targeted therapies.

2003

Advancements in Targeted Therapy

In 2003, the approval of a drug called thalidomide marked a breakthrough in the treatment of myeloma. Thalidomide, and later its derivatives like lenalidomide and pomalidomide, belong to a class of targeted therapies called immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs). These drugs have shown remarkable efficacy in improving survival rates and quality of life for myeloma patients.

1971

Advancements in Stem Cell Transplants

In 1971, the first successful autologous stem cell transplant for myeloma was performed. This procedure involved collecting a patient's own healthy stem cells, high-dose chemotherapy to kill the cancer cells, and then reinfusing the stem cells to restore the bone marrow. Stem cell transplants have since become a vital tool in the treatment of myeloma.

1960

Advancements in Treatment

During the 1960s, significant advancements were made in the treatment of multiple myeloma. The use of chemotherapy drugs, radiation therapy, and bone marrow transplantation emerged as potential treatment options for patients suffering from this disease. These developments offered new hope and improved survival rates for individuals diagnosed with multiple myeloma.

1974

Introduction of autologous stem cell transplantation

In 1974, American oncologist Dr. Robert A. Kyle introduced autologous stem cell transplantation as a treatment for myeloma. This innovative approach involves collecting and storing a patient's own healthy stem cells, then using high-dose chemotherapy to eliminate cancerous cells before reinfusing the healthy stem cells. It revolutionized the field, increasing remission rates and extending survival for many patients.

1990s

Emergence of novel therapies

In the 1990s, significant progress was made in the treatment of myeloma. High-dose chemotherapy combined with autologous stem cell transplantation proved to be effective in certain cases. Additionally, the use of novel agents, such as immunomodulatory drugs and proteasome inhibitors, revolutionized myeloma therapy and improved patient outcomes.

Present

Continued Research and Treatment Advancements

Currently, ongoing research efforts continue to shed light on the underlying mechanisms of myeloma and facilitate the development of novel treatment strategies. Important advancements include the use of immunomodulatory drugs and proteasome inhibitors, which have significantly improved patient outcomes. Moreover, new therapeutic approaches, such as CAR-T cell therapy, hold promise for enhancing the treatment of myeloma in the future.

2000

Therapeutic Advancements with Targeted Therapy

In the early 2000s, the introduction of targeted therapies revolutionized the treatment of multiple myeloma. Drugs like proteasome inhibitors (e.g., bortezomib) and immunomodulatory drugs (e.g., lenalidomide) specifically targeted the abnormal plasma cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells. These advancements significantly improved patient outcomes and prolonged survival rates.

2003

Approval of proteasome inhibitors

A major breakthrough came in 2003 when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first proteasome inhibitor, bortezomib, for the treatment of myeloma. These targeted drugs interfere with the function of proteasomes, which are responsible for degrading proteins in cells. This development marked a significant milestone in myeloma treatment, introducing a new class of drugs that specifically targeted cancer cells.

2003

Introduction of novel therapies

In 2003, a new class of drugs called proteasome inhibitors was introduced for the treatment of myeloma. The first drug of this class, bortezomib, proved to be highly effective in targeting and killing myeloma cells. This marked a significant advancement in the management of myeloma, providing patients with improved treatment options.

2003

Approval of Targeted Therapy

In 2003, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first targeted therapy for myeloma. The drug, bortezomib (brand name Velcade), specifically inhibits the proteasome, a cellular structure involved in protein degradation. This targeted approach marked a significant advancement in myeloma treatment, offering improved outcomes for patients.

2003

Introduction of Proteasome Inhibitors

In 2003, the first proteasome inhibitor, bortezomib, was approved for the treatment of multiple myeloma. Proteasome inhibitors target the mechanism by which cancer cells dispose of proteins, leading to their accumulation and subsequent death. Bortezomib and subsequent proteasome inhibitors have significantly improved outcomes for myeloma patients and continue to be a cornerstone of therapy.

Present

Continued research and improved outcomes

In the present day, research and advancements in understanding myeloma continue. The introduction of targeted therapies, personalized medicine approaches, and immunotherapies have further enhanced treatment options. Moreover, improved supportive care measures have greatly increased the overall survival and quality of life for myeloma patients.

2021

Ongoing research and advancements

Myeloma research continues to progress rapidly, with ongoing studies focused on further understanding the disease's biology and developing innovative treatment strategies. Researchers are investigating immunotherapies, targeted therapies, and precision medicine approaches to improve patient outcomes. With evolving knowledge and advancements, the future holds promise for even greater achievements in the field of myeloma.

2020

Emerging Immunotherapies

In recent years, immunotherapies, such as monoclonal antibodies and CAR-T cell therapy, have shown promising results in the treatment of myeloma. These innovative approaches harness the power of the immune system to target and destroy cancer cells. Ongoing research and clinical trials continue to unravel the potential of immunotherapies in effectively managing myeloma.

Present

Continued research and advancements

In the present day, myeloma research continues to advance rapidly. New treatment options, such as immunotherapies and novel targeted therapies, have shown promising results. Additionally, precision medicine approaches aim to tailor treatments based on individual patients' genetic profiles, further improving outcomes. Ongoing research efforts aim to improve overall survival rates and enhance patients' quality of life.

Did you know?

Did you know that multiple myeloma affects more men than women? It seems this sneaky disease has a strong preference for our male counterparts. Maybe it's just jealous of their dapper mustaches or stylish bowties.