What blood tests detect MGUS?
Diagnosing MGUS The diagnosis is then confirmed by having a particular blood test called serum electropheresis which identifies the abnormal antibody. MGUS is clinically defined as having a paraprotein level of less than 3 grams per deciliter and less than 10 percent plasma cells in the bone marrow.
How is MGUS tested?
Because MGUS usually causes no symptoms, it’s usually detected by chance during blood tests for other conditions. Afterwards, your doctor may recommend: More-detailed blood tests. These can help rule out other causes of elevated protein levels and can check for kidney damage.
How often should MGUS be checked?
People with MGUS need to be monitored with blood and urine testing every 6 to 12 months to determine if MGUS is progressing. For a small percentage of individuals, the condition develops into cancerous conditions, such as multiple myeloma or lymphoma.
Is MGUS a form of cancer?
Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is a precancerous condition and the most common plasma cell disorder. Precancerous conditions are not yet cancer, but there is a chance these abnormal changes will eventually become cancer.
What are signs of MGUS?
Symptoms. People with monoclonal gammopathy generally don’t experience signs or symptoms. Some people may experience a rash or nerve problems, such as numbness or tingling. MGUS is usually detected by chance when you have a blood test for another condition.
What tests are done to diagnose MGUS?
If you are experiencing bone pain, your doctor might recommend an MRI or ositron emission tomography (PET) scan. The images can help your doctor find bone abnormalities related to MGUS. Your bone density also might need to be checked. Bone marrow test. A hollow needle can remove a portion of your bone marrow from the back of one of your hipbones.
What causes MGUS to develop?
Experts aren’t sure exactly what causes MGUS. It’s thought that certain genetic changes and environmental factors may affect whether or not a person develops this condition. What doctors do know is that MGUS causes abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow to produce M protein. How does MGUS progress over time?
Can non IgM MGUS progress to multiple myeloma?
Non-IgM MGUS (IgG, IgA or IgD MGUS). This is the most common type of MGUS and has the potential to progress to multiple myeloma. Less frequently, people with Non-IgM MGUS can progress to other disorders, such as immunoglobulin light chain (AL) amyloidosis or light chain deposition disease.
How do I obtain an expert consultation on MGUS/myeloma?
For expert consultation on MGUS, myeloma, and other hematologic diseases, submit a request to the ASH Consult a Colleague program at www.hematology.org/Consult(ASH members only). American Society of Hematology 2021 L Street NW, Suite 900 Washington, DC 20036
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vBLxCGGbKDA