Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia

Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia; Macroglobulinemia - primary; Lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma; Monoclonal macroglobulinemia

WM is a result of a condition called lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma. This is a cancer of the white blood cells, in which the B or T immune cells start dividing rapidly. The exact cause of too much production of the IgM antibody is unknown. Production of excess IgM causes the blood to become too thick. This is called hyperviscosity. It can make it harder for blood to flow through small blood vessels.

WM is very rare. Most people with this condition are over 65 years of age. It may also occur in younger people.

Symptoms of WM may include any of the following:

• Bleeding of the gums and nosebleeds
• Blurred or decreased vision
• Bluish skin
• Dizziness
• Easy bruising of the skin
• Fatigue
• Flank pain
• Headache
• Mental status changes
• Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in the hands, feet, fingers, toes, ears, or nose
• Rash
• Swollen glands
• Unintentional weight loss
• Vision loss in one eye

A physical examination may reveal a swollen spleen, liver, and lymph nodes. An eye exam may show enlarged veins in the retina or retinal bleeding (hemorrhages).

A CBC shows a low number of red blood cells and platelets. Blood chemistry shows evidence of kidney disease. A serum viscosity test can tell if the blood has become thick. Symptoms usually occur when the blood is 4 times thicker than normal.

A test called serum protein electrophoresis shows an increased level of the IgM antibody. Levels are often higher than 3 grams per deciliter (g/dL).

Bone lesions are very rare. If they are present, a bone marrow examination will show cells that look like both lymphocytes and plasma cells.

Additional tests that may be done include:

• 24-hour urine protein
• Total protein
• Serum globulin electrophoresis
• Immunofixation in urine
• T (thymus derived) lymphocyte count

The treatment aim is to decrease the symptoms and the risk of developing organ damage.

Plasmapheresis removes unwanted substances from the blood. In MW, it removes or reduces the high level of IgM. It also quickly controls the symptoms caused by blood thickening.

Medicines may include corticosteroids, a combination of chemotherapy medicines and the monoclonal antibody to B cells, rituximab.

People who have a low number of red or white blood cells or platelets may need transfusions or antibiotics.

The average survival is about 5 years. Some people live more than 10 years.

In some people, the disorder may produce few symptoms and progress slowly.

Complications of MW may include:

• Changes in mental function, possibly leading to coma
• Heart failure
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Vision problems
• Hives

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