Myeloma protein

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Myeloma Protein

Myeloma protein is a type of protein produced by plasma cells in the bone marrow. It is associated with a group of diseases known as monoclonal gammopathies, which include multiple myeloma, Waldenström's macroglobulinemia, and other related conditions.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Myeloma proteins are abnormal proteins that are produced in excess by malignant plasma cells. These proteins can be detected in the blood and urine of individuals with monoclonal gammopathies. The presence of myeloma proteins can cause a variety of symptoms and complications, including anemia, bone pain, kidney damage, and increased susceptibility to infections.

Types of Myeloma Proteins[edit | edit source]

There are several types of myeloma proteins, including:

  • Immunoglobulin G (IgG): This is the most common type of myeloma protein. It is associated with multiple myeloma and other conditions.
  • Immunoglobulin A (IgA): This type of myeloma protein is less common than IgG, but it is also associated with multiple myeloma.
  • Light chains: These are smaller proteins that are part of the larger immunoglobulin molecules. They can be produced in excess in some types of monoclonal gammopathies.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

The presence of myeloma proteins can be detected through a variety of laboratory tests, including:

  • Immunofixation: This test is used to identify the specific type of myeloma protein present.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for conditions associated with myeloma proteins typically involves addressing the underlying disease. This may include chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation, and other treatments.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Myeloma protein 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 The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes.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