Waldenström's macroglobulinemia(patient information)

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Aditya Govindavarjhulla, M.B.B.S. [2]; Grammar Reviewer: Natalie Harpenau, B.S.[3]

Overview

Macroglobulinemia of Waldenstrom is a cancer of the B lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell). It is associated with the overproduction of proteins called IgM antibodies.[1]

What are the symptoms of Waldenström's macroglobulinemia?

Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:

  • Bluish skin discoloration
  • Fingers that change color upon pressure
  • Flank pain
  • Swollen glands

What causes Waldenström's macroglobulinemia?

Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia is a result of a condition called lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma. The cause of the overproduction of the IgM antibody is unknown, but researchers believe it is made by lymphoma cells.

Overproduction of IgM causes the blood to become too thick. This is called hyper-viscosity. It occasionally makes it harder for blood to flow through small blood vessels.

About 1,500 people in the United States are diagnosed with Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia every year. Most people with this condition are over age 65; however, it may also occur in younger people.

Diagnosis

Signs may include:

Tests may include:

Additional tests that may be done:

When to seek urgent medical care?

Call your health care provider if any symptoms of this disorder develop.

Treatment

  • Plasmapheresis - removes unwanted substances from the blood. In macroglobulinemia, this treatment removes or reduces the high levels of IgM and is used to quickly control the symptoms caused by blood thickening.

What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?

The average survival is about 6.5 years. Some people live more than 10 years. In some people, Waldenström's macroglobulinemia may produce few symptoms and progress slowly.

Possible complications

Sources

  1. "Macroglobulinemia of Waldenstrom: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia".

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