Macroglobulinemia

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Macroglobulinaemia)

Macroglobulinemia is a type of blood cancer that originates from B cells, a type of white blood cell. It is characterized by the overproduction of immunoglobulin M (IgM), a type of antibody, which leads to increased blood viscosity, or thickness. This condition is also known as Waldenström's macroglobulinemia, named after the Swedish physician Jan Gosta Waldenström who first described the disease in 1944.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of macroglobulinemia can vary widely, but often include fatigue, weakness, and weight loss. Other symptoms may include bleeding, bruising, swelling, and problems with vision or hearing. In severe cases, the disease can lead to organ failure.

Causes[edit | edit source]

The exact cause of macroglobulinemia is unknown, but it is thought to be related to genetic mutations in the B cells. These mutations cause the cells to grow and divide uncontrollably, leading to the overproduction of IgM.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of macroglobulinemia is typically made through blood tests, which can detect the presence of excess IgM. Other tests, such as bone marrow biopsy, may also be used to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for macroglobulinemia typically involves chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of both. In some cases, stem cell transplantation may be considered.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for macroglobulinemia varies widely, depending on the stage of the disease and the patient's overall health. However, with appropriate treatment, many patients can live for many years with the disease.

See also[edit | edit source]

Macroglobulinemia Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD