CancerCompass message board discussion started by Smitty on 6/21/2007 http://www.cancercompass.com/message-board/message/all,13651,0.htm Sun, 23 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT Sun, 23 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://backend.userland.com/rss RSS.NET: http://www.rssdotnet.com/ Hello,    I have been seeing oncologists for about 4-5 years now because I had pains in my legs and didn't know why. One of the many doctors I was referred to told me I had too much protein in my blood and I should see an oncologist. I did and all I was told was to come in every 3 months so we could keep an eye on my protein levels and that "one day" I could have a problem. So I did as I was told pretty much thinking that I "might" be a canditate  for some type of  bone cancer  down the road.  Three years ago my husband and I moved  to another  city and I changed  doctors to be closer to my home  and  just  2 months ago  he mentions how  great it is that I have multiple myeloma and that when it's time for treatment there is a good hospital in Arkansas or I could consider M D Anderson. Well, I have to tell you it was like a slap in the face.......he said that I do have the disease but that it is smoldering right now. That's why it's important that I get checked every 3 months. He also told me they usually don't see this disease in someone as young as I am. I am 53. I have another appt in July which my husband is coming with me so we can get much more info on this. I am also wondering if I should look into an appt with one of these other cancer treatment centers to get a second opinion and possibly some kind of nutritional treatment or vitamins. I have been told to just do what I have been doing. I'm pretty confused right now and more than a little afraid. Any info would be appreciated. Also is mutiple myeloma also called lymphoma? And what is CLL? Thanks for any info. Paula :)   Smitty Thu, 21 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT Your physician is doing the right thing.  Aggressive treatment of Myeloma has had no effect on the natural course of the disease.  It could go along for years with no treatment.  Treatment is symptom based and designed to prolong the symptom free interval.  Sometimes the smoldering phase never converts.  Another reason not the treat aggressively since it may do more harm.  Since you are in Arkansas, then you should know Sam Walton had Myeloma as well.  Have you had a bone survey??  Myeloma can cause erosion of bone.  You should be taking Calcium and vitamn D an treatd at least moderately like you have osteoporosis. Witchdoctor Sun, 24 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT