Multiple myeloma, a cancer of the plasma cell, is an incurable but treatable disease. While a myeloma diagnosis can be overwhelming, it is important to remember that there are several promising new therapies that are helping patients live longer, healthier lives. The estimated frequency of multiple myeloma is 4-5 new cases per 100,000 persons per year. Accordingly, in the USA 15,270 new cases are expected to be diagnosed in 2004. At present there are approximately 50,000 people in the United States living with multiple myeloma.

clinical investigation of monoclonal gammopathies,

published a classic article in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings

on the presenting symptoms and signs as well as the natural

history of multiple myeloma (MM) at a time when the

combination of melphalan and prednisone was the only

available therapy. Generations of both clinicians and laboratory

researchers have relied on this landmark article for

understanding clinical manifestations and disease pathogenesis.