
Eric T. Stoopler, BA, DMD
University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
"The incidence of amyloid deposition in abdominal and oral mucosal tissue in patients initially diagnosed with multiple myeloma"
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a type of cancer involving the bone marrow. Formation of an abnormal protein-like material, called amyloid, is an increasing complication of MM, which may lead to severe organ damage. Amyloid is commonly detected in belly fat while testing of mouth tissue has been recommended as an alternative site. The goal of this study is to compare the rate of occurrence of amyloid deposition in belly fat and mouth tissue in patients upon initial diagnosis of MM. The results of this study will help in early detection of amyloid and improve the staging of MM.