What causes raised paraprotein?

There are different conditions that can cause a paraprotein, with the most common being monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance (MGUS). In most cases, this is a non-cancerous condition but another, more serious, blood abnormality linked to a paraprotein is myeloma.

What are Paraproteins in the blood?

A paraprotein is a monoclonal immunoglobulin or light chain present in the blood or urine; it is produced by a clonal population of mature B cells, most commonly plasma cells. In individuals aged >50 years the incidence of a paraprotein is 3.2%.

How are Paraproteins formed?

Abstract. Paraproteins are monoclonal immune globulin fragments or intact immune globulins produced by usually a malignant cone of plasma cells or B cells. These proteins are associated with a spectrum of kidney disorders caused by either direct effects on the kidney cells or deposition in various kidney cells.

What is the treatment for Paraproteinemia?

Plasmapheresis is the treatment of choice for initial management and stabilization of hyperviscosity syndrome (HVS) caused by the paraproteinemias (the majority of cases). Plasmapheresis is usually well tolerated and safe.

Can you live a long life with MGUS?

We found that 10 and 15 years after diagnosis, MGUS patients have RSR of 82% and 70%, respectively. Prior studies have also shown a lower life expectancy in MGUS patients;5,6,10–12,19,20 however, in none of these were causes of death among MGUS patients compared to those of matched controls.

What does a positive paraprotein mean?

Myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells. When plasma cells become cancerous, they make abnormal antibodies in large quantities that serve no useful function. These abnormal antibodies can be found and measured in the blood and are referred to as paraprotein or m protein.

What happens if myeloma is left untreated?

If left untreated, excess amounts of myeloma protein can cause kidney damage or even renal failure. A kidney biopsy might be performed to determine the exact cause of the kidney damage.

Can you have myeloma for years without knowing?

Some people have multiple myeloma for months or years before they even know they’re sick. This earliest phase is called smoldering multiple myeloma. When you have it, you won’t have any symptoms, but your test results will show: At least 10% to 59% of your bone marrow is made up of cancerous plasma cells.

Which is the most common form of myeloma?

The most common type of myeloma is IgG, followed by IgA. The least common types are IgM, IgD and IgE. Some people are diagnosed with myeloma that has no symptoms. This is sometimes called smouldering myeloma or indolent myeloma.

How do you test for multiple myeloma?

Diagnosing multiple myeloma includes blood work, a 24-hour urine collection, a bone marrow biopsy, imaging studies (such as x-rays, MRIs, PET scans) and bone density tests.

What foods should be avoided with MGUS?

Hence, MGUS patients should avoid taking a diet including obesity causing foods such as red meat and processed meat, fried foods, processed foods, sugar-sweetened beverages and fast foods to reduce the risk of progression to Multiple Myeloma and Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia.

What are the symptoms of Paraproteinemia?

Symptoms of amyloidosis may include:

• Swelling of the legs.
• Foamy urine.
• Shortness of breath.
• Tingling or numbness of hands and feet.
• Lightheadedness or dizziness.
• Weight loss.
• Bruising.
• Fatigue and decreased exercise capacity.

What causes paraprotein to accumulate in the body?

Amyloidosis – Amyloid light-chain (AL) amyloidosis or primary amyloidosis has increased the level of paraprotein which may accumulate into vital organs such as kidney and heart. Apart from the malignant diseases, various other diseases also alter the level of paraprotein in blood and urine:

Are there any serious problems with a paraprotein?

A paraprotein can have many causes—some serious but others unlikely ever to cause any problems. This article outlines key investigations and some of the difficulties that may arise after the incidental finding of a paraprotein

What are the symptoms of an altered paraprotein level?

Crow–Fukase Syndrome- This condition also has an altered level of paraprotein. The symptoms of this syndrome include polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, myeloma protein, and skin changes.

What causes a person to have a seizure?

A seizure occurs when the cerebral cortex, a part of the brain, functions in an abnormal way. The cause of this malfunction may be a result of an abnormality located within the brain itself, or it could be the result of a disease that starts in another part of the body but is still is able to affect the brain.