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Macroglobulinemia

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Macroglobulinemia (Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia) is a rare type of cancer that causes overproduction of a type of the antibody (immunoglobulin) IgM. The disease causes the blood to thicken and reduces the body's ability to fight off infection.

Symptoms may not be present in mild cases. In more severe cases, symptoms of macroglobulinemia include weakness and fatigue, recurring infections, problems with thinking and making decisions, shortness of breath, swollen glands, and nerve problems. Treatment may include chemotherapy and a process that removes the antibodies from the blood (plasmapheresis).

Current as of: October 25, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: October 25, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.