Plasma cell dyscrasia

Plasma cell dyscrasia refers to a group of diseases characterized by the abnormal proliferation of a single clone of plasma cells, leading to an overproduction of monoclonal protein (M protein). These conditions can range from benign to malignant and include multiple myeloma, Waldenström's macroglobulinemia, and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS).

Overview

Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that produce antibodies to help the body fight off infections. In plasma cell dyscrasias, these cells become cancerous and multiply out of control, leading to an overproduction of a single type of antibody known as monoclonal protein or M protein. This can cause a variety of health problems, depending on the type of plasma cell dyscrasia and the specific properties of the M protein.

Types of Plasma Cell Dyscrasias

There are several types of plasma cell dyscrasias, including:

• Multiple Myeloma: This is the most common type of plasma cell dyscrasia. It is a cancer of plasma cells that can damage the bones, immune system, kidneys, and red blood cell count.

• Waldenström's macroglobulinemia: This is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that involves the overproduction of M protein.

• Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS): This is a condition in which a small amount of M protein is produced, but there are no symptoms or problems associated with it. However, people with MGUS are at risk of developing a more serious plasma cell dyscrasia.

Symptoms

The symptoms of plasma cell dyscrasias can vary widely, depending on the type of disease and the specific properties of the M protein. Common symptoms can include fatigue, bone pain, frequent infections, and kidney problems.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of plasma cell dyscrasias typically involves blood tests to detect the presence of M protein, bone marrow biopsy to examine the plasma cells, and imaging tests to look for bone damage.

Treatment

Treatment for plasma cell dyscrasias depends on the specific type of disease and may include chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation, and targeted therapy.

See Also

• Hematology
• Oncology
• Immunology