What is Waldenström Macroglobulinemia?
What is Waldenström Macroglobulinemia?
The Big Picture
Waldenström Macroglobulinemia (WM) is a rare type of cancer that affects the blood. It involves the production of abnormal proteins that can cause various symptoms and complications.
Contents
- Understanding WM
- Symptoms of WM
- Diagnosis of WM
Understanding WM
WM is a cancer that begins in the white blood cells. It leads to the production of a large amount of a specific protein called IgM. These proteins can cause the blood to become thick, leading to circulation problems and other symptoms.
Symptoms of WM
People with WM might experience symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, and night sweats. Some may also notice bleeding from the nose or gums, headaches, or changes in vision due to the thickened blood.
Diagnosis of WM
Diagnosing WM involves blood tests to check for high levels of IgM and bone marrow tests to look for cancer cells. Doctors may also use imaging tests to assess organ involvement.
FAQs
What is Waldenström Macroglobulinemia?
It's a type of blood cancer that results in thick blood due to high IgM protein levels.
What symptoms can WM cause?
Symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, and bleeding.
How is WM diagnosed?
It is diagnosed through blood tests, bone marrow tests, and imaging.
Can WM be cured?
WM is not curable, but treatments can manage symptoms.
Key Takeaways
Understanding WM is crucial for managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Additional References
- Kyle RA, Benson JT, Larson DR, et al. Progression in smoldering Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia: long-term results. Blood 2012; 119:4462.
- https://www.nccn.org/professionals/physician_gls/pdf/waldenstroms.pdf (Accessed on September 07, 2021).
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.