Multiple myeloma is a cancer that forms in a plasma cell, a type of white blood cell that helps you fight infections by making antibodies that recognize and attack germs. The condition causes cancer cells to accumulate in the bone marrow, crowding out healthy blood cells. The cancer cells produce abnormal proteins that may cause complications.
Cancer cases have been linked to exposure of benzene, glyphosate, solvents, and several other industrial toxins that workers may deal with for weeks or years at a time. Cancer-causing agents have been identified, but employers have still failed to protect workers from the risks of toxic exposure.
Treatment for multiple myeloma isn’t always necessary though is available for people with complications. Complications include:
- Infections
- Bone problems—bone pain, thinning bones and broken bones.
- Reduced kidney function or kidney failure
- Low red blood cell count (anemia)
Joe Lyon is a highly-rated personal injury and workplace exposure lawyer representing plaintiffs nationwide in a wide variety of toxic tort and asbestos injury claims.
Risk factors for occupational cancers include working near operations that use industrial chemicals. Worksites known to use cancer-causing toxins include:
Toxins Associated with Multiple Myeloma
Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma
Signs and symptoms can vary and can include:
- Bone pain, especially in your spine or chest
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Loss of appetite
- Mental fogginess or confusion
- Fatigue
- Frequent infections
- Weight loss
- Weakness or numbness in your legs
- Excessive thirst
Multiple Myeloma Lawsuits
Doctors know that myeloma begins with one abnormal plasma cell, which then multiplies rapidly. The cancer cells accumulate and overwhelm the production of healthy cells, leading to fatigue and an inability to fight infection.
Multiple myeloma usually starts out as a relatively benign condition called monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). Each year, about one percent of people with MGUS develop multiple myeloma or a related cancer.
The Lyon Firm takes pride in representing plaintiffs and victims of toxic exposure. When a company produces a dangerous product or a company fails to protect their employees, legal action may be the only way to recover rightful compensation. Toxic exposure lawsuits can generate large settlements for injured plaintiffs.
