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.
Contents
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.

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.
Wrapping Up
Effective treatment of WM focuses on managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life.
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.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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