How is Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Treated?

Published: Feb 16, 2024

Treating WM is crucial for managing symptoms and preventing complications. While there's no cure, various treatments can help improve quality of life.

Initial Treatment Options

For most patients, a combination of drugs like bendamustine and rituximab is used. This approach aims to control symptoms and prevent further complications from the disease.

Alternative Therapies

Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors are an alternative, especially for older adults. These are oral medications that help manage the disease over time.

Waldenström Macroglobulinemia is a rare type of blood cancer characterized by an excess of abnormal white blood cells. While incurable, treatments like bendamustine, rituximab, and Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Emergency Treatments

In cases of severe symptoms like hyperviscosity, plasmapheresis is used to quickly reduce IgM levels in the blood. This procedure helps alleviate symptoms rapidly.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary treatment often includes bendamustine and rituximab.

Yes, alternatives like BTK inhibitors are available.

It's a condition where blood becomes too thick, requiring emergency treatment.

No, but treatments can effectively manage symptoms.

Key Takeaways

Effective treatment of WM focuses on managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life.

Consult Doctronic to explore the best treatment options for you.

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References

Minnema MC, Kimby E, D'Sa S, et al. Guideline for the diagnosis, treatment and response criteria for Bing-Neel syndrome. Haematologica 2017; 102:43.

Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.