Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects the bone marrow, the body's blood-forming system. In persons with mutliple myeloma, the plasma cells (a special type of white blood cell) become abnormal and multiply rapidly, crowding normal cells in the bone marrow. The abnormal, or malignant plasma cells interfere with the production of normal blood cells. The overgrowth of malignant cells in the bone marrow can also weaken the bones, especially in the back and ribs, and cause pain and bone fractures. The Unit at Parkside Oncology Clinic was, in 2008, awarded full membership of the European Group for Bone and Marrow Transplants (EBMT).>> more

Previously head of the Haemato-oncology, myeloma and leukaemia units at the Royal Marsden Hospital, Professor Ray Powles CBE now heads the myeloma and leukaemia unit at Parkside Hospital's Oncology Centre.