LONDON: Researchers have discovered how an incurable type of blood cancer develops from an often symptomless prior blood disorder.
The findings could lead to more effective treatments and ways to identify those most at risk of developing the cancer.
All patients diagnosed with myeloma, a cancer of the blood-producing bone marrow, first develop a relatively benign condition called 'Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance' or MGUS.
Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance rarely causes signs or symptoms. The condition is usually detected by chance when you have a routine blood test for another problem. However, some people may experience nerve problems, such as numbness or tingling, associated with the abnormal Protein.
Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance occurs when plasma cells in your bone marrow produce an abnormal Protein called MonoclonalProtein (M Protein). Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell. They are found in your bone marrow. Plasma cells produce some of the antibodies that help your body fight infection.
In the majority of people with Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance, the Protein isn't harmful. But when too much M Protein accumulates, it crowds out healthy cells in your bone marrow and can damage other tissues in your body.
Genetic changes appear to play a role in Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance, as do environmental triggers.
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