Waldenström macroglobulinemia (blood cell disease)
About Waldenström macroglobulinemia (blood cell disease)
A cancer of the B lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell). It is associated with the overproduction of large proteins called IgM antibodies. The blood can become too thick, causing decreased blood flow to organs in the body. Patients may also experience difficulties clotting their blood and have problems fighting infections. The cause of the rare type of cancer is not known. Most patients with this disorder are over 65.Symptoms
Fatigue, dizziness, bleeding of the gums, easy bruising, nosebleeds, unintentional weight loss, visual changes and sometimes vision loss in one eye, swollen glands.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests including complete blood count (CBC) and full chemistry panel are done. Blood is also examined for high levels of IgM antibodies. Diagnosis can be confirmed with a lymph node or bone marrow biopsy.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP).
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Therapy may include the following medications: corticosteroids, chlorambucil (Leukeran), melphalan (Alkeran), cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan), fludarabine (Fludara), and/or rituximab (Rituxan). Some patients require red blood cell and platelet transfusions. Patients with very thick blood causing symptoms will need plasmapheresis (plasma exchange) to remove the high levels of IgM antibodies.Medical specialties
Hematology and Oncology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Waldenström macroglobulinemia (blood cell disease).