Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance
Wilson I. Gonsalves, S. Vincent Rajkumar
Abstract
Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is of considerable clinical importance to primary care physicians given its high prevalence in the general population. MGUS has a variable but lifelong risk for progression to hematologic cancer, such as multiple myeloma, Waldenström macroglobulinemia, or light-chain amyloidosis. In addition, MGUS has been associated with several nonmalignant yet symptomatic disorders that require therapy directed toward eliminating the monoclonal gammopathy. Thus, it is important not only to understand the essentials of diagnosing and monitoring patients with MGUS but also to recognize when to refer patients with MGUS to a specialist.
Topics & Concepts
Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significanceMedicineMultiple myelomaAmyloidosisWaldenstrom macroglobulinemiaMacroglobulinemiaAL amyloidosisMonoclonal gammopathyDyscrasiaGammopathyMonoclonalInternal medicineDermatologyImmunoglobulin light chainImmunologyMonoclonal antibodyAntibodyPlasma cellLymphomaMultiple Myeloma Research and TreatmentsAmyloidosis: Diagnosis, Treatment, OutcomesChronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Research