Waldenström

Waldenström is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma called Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM). It is a slow-growing cancer of the white blood cells, specifically B-lymphocytes. These abnormal lymphocytes, also called lymphoplasmacytic cells, accumulate in the bone marrow, lymph nodes, and spleen. A key characteristic of WM is the production of large amounts of an abnormal protein called a monoclonal immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibody. This excess IgM can cause the blood to become thick, a condition known as hyperviscosity, leading to various symptoms.

The exact cause of Waldenström macroglobulinemia is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve genetic mutations in B-lymphocytes. It typically affects older adults, with a median age at diagnosis in the mid-60s. Symptoms can vary widely and may include fatigue, weakness, anemia, enlarged lymph nodes, bruising, and neurological problems due to the thickened blood. Some individuals may have no symptoms at the time of diagnosis and the condition is discovered incidentally.

Diagnosis often involves blood tests to detect the abnormal IgM protein and specific cell markers, as well as a bone marrow biopsy. Treatment approaches depend on the presence and severity of symptoms. For asymptomatic individuals, observation may be sufficient. Symptomatic patients may be treated with chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. The prognosis for Waldenström macroglobulinemia is generally good for many patients, with long survival times, although it is considered an incurable disease.