Multiple Myeloma Involves the Unregulated Proliferation of an Antibody-Producing Plasma

Multiple myeloma involves the unregulated proliferation of an antibody-producing plasma cell (myeloma cell)independently of antigen stimulation or T-cell help.Myeloma cells populate multiple sites in the bone marrow,where they produce immense quantities of monoclonal immunoglobulin as well as suppressing normal marrow function.Myeloma cells also synthesize and secrete excessive amounts of free light chains (known as Bence-Jones protein),which,because of their low molecular weight (~25 kDa)are excreted as free light chains in the urine.
In a given patient the free light chains are both monoclonal and all are of either the κ or the λ type.
A.Explain both of these observations.
B.Why do you think patients with multiple myeloma are more susceptible than normal to pyogenic infections,such as pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae?

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A.In a normal response to infection,a di...

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