Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematological cancer affecting plasma cells. MM is characterized by an overproduction of abnormal plasma cells that adhere to the bone marrow and continue to proliferate, invading hard bone tissue and leading to bone destruction. Multiple lesions affecting the large bones of the body are common. Additionally, myeloma cells produce large numbers of inactive antibodies that crowd out normal functioning antibodies, and levels of functioning antibodies are often depressed in patients with MM. The clinical manifestations of MM include increased infection, diffuse osteoporosis, hypercalcemia, and renal damage. Approximately 20,180 new cases of MM will be diagnosed in 2010, and approximately 10,650 deaths will be attributed to the disease in the United States. The 5-year relative survival rate for MM is approximately 35%.