Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Multiple myeloma is a type of plasma cell cancer most commonly referred to by this name in modern clinical practice, though it is occasionally documented as plasma cell myeloma or Kahler's disease. Understanding these synonyms is essential for patients navigating medical records, as older literature or international databases may use varying terminology to describe the same underlying malignancy. What are the common synonyms and historical names for Multiple myeloma? While Multiple myeloma is the standard medical term, you may encounter several alternative names in older medical texts or specific international contexts.
Multiple myeloma synonyms
Other names for Multiple myeloma: synonyms, acronyms and related terms used by doctors and patients.
Multiple myeloma is a type of plasma cell cancer most commonly referred to by this name in modern clinical practice, though it is occasionally documented as plasma cell myeloma or Kahler's disease. Understanding these synonyms is essential for patients navigating medical records, as older literature or international databases may use varying terminology to describe the same underlying malignancy.
What are the common synonyms and historical names for Multiple myeloma?
While Multiple myeloma is the standard medical term, you may encounter several alternative names in older medical texts or specific international contexts. Historically, the condition was frequently called "Kahler's disease" after Otto Kahler, who provided a detailed clinical description in 1889. Other terms, such as "plasma cell myeloma" or "myelomatosis," are sometimes used to describe the proliferation of malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow.
How is Multiple myeloma classified in medical databases?
Standardized medical classification systems provide consistency in how Multiple myeloma is coded and tracked globally. These systems ensure that researchers and clinicians are referencing the same disease regardless of regional nomenclature preferences:
- ICD-10-CM: C90.0 (Multiple myeloma)
- ORPHANET: ORPHA598 (Multiple myeloma)
- OMIM: #254500 (Multiple myeloma)
- NCI Thesaurus: C3224 (Plasma Cell Myeloma)
Why does Multiple myeloma have different names?
The variety of names for Multiple myeloma stems from its historical discovery and the evolution of pathology. Early descriptions often named the disease after the physician who identified it, leading to the use of "Kahler's disease." As diagnostic techniques improved, the medical community shifted toward "Multiple myeloma" to reflect the clinical reality of the disease, which typically involves multiple lesions throughout the skeletal system. Today, Multiple myeloma remains the preferred term in clinical trials and oncology guidelines to ensure clear communication between patients and care teams.
Next steps for patients
- Review your pathology reports to confirm the specific diagnosis code used by your hospital.
- Connect with the 217 community members at DiseaseMaps.org who are sharing their experiences with Multiple myeloma.
- Consult with a hematologist-oncologist to discuss how your specific subtype or clinical presentation is documented.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.
References
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Multiple myeloma.
- Orphanet: Rare disease database, ORPHA598.
- OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man): Entry #254500.
- International Myeloma Foundation (IMF): Understanding Multiple myeloma terminology.
