[igorsvksv]

Problems with memory & speaking during treatment

by igorsvksv on Sat Nov 21, 2015 1:26 pm

Hello,

I would be really grateful if somebody could shed some light on deteriorating symptoms of multiple myeloma treatment.

Our grandmother was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in her 75th year in Slovakia. She was doing well after first chemotherapy but then started to have high inflammation markers caused by inflammation of unidentified origin. Then her myeloma M spike started to rise to 36 g/L (3.6 g/dL) (was 46 g/L when first diagnosed, Stage 3 myeloma).

Doctors started second chemotherapy 5 days ago. It is based on older medicines, nothing like Velcade, etc. Since then our grandmother started to have brain dysfunction symptoms - she cannot remember things, she became very weak, and has trouble speaking.

Doctors do not know what is causing this. They eliminated blood-stroke, but cant explain such dramatic changes which happened during the last few days. We are now trying to find out whether these symptoms are caused by progressing myeloma (damaging brain tissues or nerves) or if this is a reaction of her body to the medicines / quantities of her dose.

Any information on whether anybody experienced similar brain related symptoms would be very helpful. Thank you.

[Laron1969]

Re: Problems with memory & speaking during treatment

by Laron1969 on Wed Nov 25, 2015 12:03 pm

Igor

This happened to my father during and after treatment with Thalidomide derivatives, and was pronounced after his SCT. He had difficulty finding the right words and was forgetful. This was thought to be due to the drugs he was on, but none of his physicians had a really good explanation.

At one point his serum calcium levels got very high, which caused severe confusion and weakness.

It is my understanding that myeloma affecting the brain itself is rare.

I hope this helps and I wish the best for your grandmother.

[Lev]

Re: Problems with memory & speaking during treatment

by Lev on Thu Nov 26, 2015 1:27 am

Hi Igorsvksv,

I am sorry to hear about your grand mothers situation, what treatment is she receiving?

Slovakia is in the European Union, and I at least understand from a post I remember elsewhere that in your neighboring country, the Czech Republic, modern myeloma medicine should be available.

Are you in touch with a myeloma specialist?

Is treatment free in Slovakia?

Best regards,

Lev

[cindylouise]

Re: Problems with memory & speaking during treatment

by cindylouise on Sun Nov 29, 2015 9:25 am

Hi,

Sorry it took so long to respond. I hope your grandmother is improving at this point.

My husband was suffering from delirium at the time of his diagnosis. And he had other complicating factors, so I'm not sure this is completely relevant to your situation. But he was sleepless and confused, hallucinating, etc.

I guess the good news is, as his cancer started responding to treatment, his delirium receded, and he returned to his normal level of brain function. I would wonder in your grandmother's situation if it isn't the combination of factors. I would think the cancer itself, the hospitalization, and then the strong drugs to treat the myeloma could all cause the symptoms you describe. The elderly are more likely to develop delirium in the hospital.

Hopefully by now things have started to improve for you!