Blood cancer (myeloma) treatment in Manchester

Private myeloma blood cancer treatment at The Alexandra Hospital in Manchester 

At The Alexandra Hospital, our oncology team provides expert support, care and treatment for people living with myeloma blood cancer. While many of our patients are from Manchester, others travel from further afield for their private oncology treatment. 

Cancer affects everybody differently and we know just how hard a cancer diagnosis can be to you and your loved ones. When you choose to have your cancer treatment at The Alexandra Hospital, you will be looked after every step of the way, with treatment tailored to your specific needs.  

Our highly experienced multidisciplinary team is led by oncology consultants from The Christie NHS Foundation Trust and some of the largest teaching hospitals in the UK. As well as oncologists, blood cancer treatment is delivered by consultant haematologists. Our dedicated oncology unit offers easy access to onsite state-of-the-art technology, including MRI, CT scanning, and Nuclear Medicine where required. You will have access to investigations, surgery and systemic treatments in a supportive, modern hospital setting.

What is myeloma blood cancer?

Myeloma (also known as multiple myeloma) is a type of blood cancer that develops from plasma cells in the bone marrow. It can affect bones, kidneys, blood counts and the immune system.

Is myeloma blood cancer treatable? 

Myeloma is usually considered a long-term, treatable condition rather than a disease that can always be permanently cured. Advances in treatment mean that many people can: 

• Achieve good responses to therapy
• Live with myeloma for many years 
• Experience periods where the disease is well controlled 

Treatment is highly individual and may be given in cycles over time. You may have: 

• An initial phase of treatment to bring the disease under control 
• Possible stem cell transplant, if suitable 
• Maintenance therapy to help keep myeloma in remission 
• Further treatment if the disease relapses in the future 

Your consultant at The Alexandra Hospital will discuss: 

• The treatment options available in your situation 
• The potential benefits, side effects and impact on daily life 
• How your condition will be monitored over time with blood tests, scans and clinical review 

What are common symptoms of myeloma?

Myeloma can cause a range of symptoms, including: 

• Bone pain, often in the back, hips or ribs 
• Unexplained fractures or bone weakness 
• Tiredness, breathlessness or frequent infections due to low blood counts 
• Kidney problems, sometimes picked up on blood or urine tests 
• Unexplained weight loss or feeling generally unwell 

Some people are diagnosed after abnormal results on routine blood tests. If you have concerning symptoms, a consultation at The Alexandra Hospital can help determine whether further investigation for myeloma or other conditions is needed. 

How is treatment for myeloma different to other blood cancers? 

Myeloma behaves differently from many other blood cancers, so its treatment is often tailored in specific ways. Key differences include: 

• Myeloma arises from plasma cells in the bone marrow and often affects multiple areas of bone, so treatment focuses on controlling disease throughout the body and protecting bone health 
• Treatment commonly combines several drugs, such as chemotherapy, immunomodulatory drugs, proteasome inhibitors and steroids 
• Stem cell (bone marrow) transplant using your own cells (autologous transplant) may be recommended for suitable patients, often after initial chemotherapy 
• Supportive treatments, such as medicines to strengthen bones, pain management, blood transfusions and management of kidney function, are an important part of care 

Your consultant at The Alexandra Hospital will explain: 

• Which treatment combinations are appropriate for you 
• How these differ from treatments used for other blood cancers, such as lymphoma or leukaemia 
• The aims of each phase of treatment (for example, induction therapy, possible transplant, maintenance treatment) 

Why choose The Alexandra Hospital for myeloma treatment in Manchester? 

At The Alexandra Hospital, you can expect:

• Specialist care from consultant haematologists 
• Access to modern diagnostic tests and imaging 
• Tailored treatment plans using up-to-date therapies 
• Supportive care to manage symptoms and side effects 
• A coordinated approach to long-term monitoring and follow-up 

We know a cancer diagnosis is always hard to face, but we’re here for you every step of the way. 

How to book blood cancer treatment in Manchester 

To book a consultation to discuss blood cancer treatment with an oncologist near you, use our online booking system, or give us a call and one of our dedicated advisors will help you find an appointment time that suits you.