How Is Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Diagnosed?
How Is Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Diagnosed?
Diagnosis Demystified
Diagnosing Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) involves a series of tests and evaluations to confirm this complex condition.
Contents
- Blood Tests
- Bone Marrow Biopsy
- Genetic Testing
Blood Tests
A key part of diagnosing WM is measuring IgM protein levels in the blood. High levels of this protein suggest the presence of WM. Tests like serum protein electrophoresis and immunofixation help identify and confirm these levels.
Bone Marrow Biopsy
A bone marrow biopsy is crucial for diagnosing WM. This test checks for cancerous cells that infiltrate the bone marrow, which is typical in WM. The biopsy also helps distinguish WM from other similar conditions.
Genetic Testing
Genetic tests can detect MYD88 mutations, which are common in WM patients. These tests aid in differentiating WM from other blood disorders, ensuring an accurate diagnosis.
FAQs
What tests diagnose WM?
Blood tests and bone marrow biopsies are key to diagnosing WM.
Why is a bone marrow biopsy needed?
It confirms cancerous cell infiltration typical in WM.
Are genetic tests important?
Yes, they identify MYD88 mutations common in WM.
What does high IgM mean?
High IgM levels suggest WM presence.
Diagnosis Insights
Accurate diagnosis of WM requires multiple tests to confirm the condition.
Additional References
- World Health Organization Classification of Tumours of Haematopoietic and Lymphoid Tissues, Swerdlow SH, Campo E, Harris NL, et al. (Eds), IARC Press, Lyon 2008.
- Owen RG, Treon SP, Al-Katib A, et al. Clinicopathological definition of Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia: consensus panel recommendations from the Second International Workshop on Waldenstrom's Macroglobulinemia. Semin Oncol 2003; 30:110.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.