MTRC - Basic Pathology Concepts Basic Pathology Concepts Multiple myeloma is characterized by malignant plasma cells that reproduce uncontrollably.
Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that produces and secretes antigen-specific antibodies.
Multiple myeloma plasma cells tend to localize within the bone marrow, although they may be found in other parts of the body as well. Multiple myeloma patients are frequently found to have an abnormal karyotype, or cytogenetic indicator. Abnormalities are commonly found on chromosome 13 and chromosome 11, although others may also be involved. Cytogenetic profiles of a patient's chromosomes can be used as a guide for predicting disease progression. The bone marrow environment is an organized meshwork of cells that are collectively called stromal cells.