The search for meaning in monoclonal protein

PREVIEW

Monoclonal protein turns up in serum or urine of about 1% of patients aged 50 years or older and about 3% of those 70 or older. Such a protein may be a manifestation of a serious underlying condition, such as multiple myeloma, Waldenstr ö ms macroglobulinemia, or systemic amyloidosis. More often, however, it represents a monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). How do you know when the problem requires immediate attention, and what do you tell your patient? In this article, Dr Brigden presents criteria for diagnosis of multiple myeloma, smoldering myeloma, solitary plasmacytoma, and MGUS and discusses long-term management and risks associated with monoclonal protein.