A tumor caused by the proliferation of immunoglobulin-synthesizing cells Myelomas produce large amounts of a single (monoclonal) antibody, or the individual heavy or light chains
A neoplasm of B lymphocytes that manifests itself as the derivative cells referred to as plasma cells The disease usually starts in the marrow, which is replaced by malignant plasma cells The malignant plasma cells make a monoclonal immunoglobulin, the detection of which may be very helpful in diagnosis The cells secrete chemicals that stimulate the overactivity of bone-dissolving cells, called osteoclasts, leading to osteoporosis and brittle bones that fracture easily