Monoclonal Gammopathy

Overview

Researchers at Mayo Clinic coined the term "monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance" (MGUS) when they identified this condition. Each year, hematologists at Mayo Clinic diagnose and care for well over 1,000 patients who have this abnormal protein in their blood. Skilled pathologists perform tests to identify the abnormal proteins. Mayo researchers are studying this condition to better understand it and to improve treatment.

Diagnosis

MGUS is often identified as a result of routine blood tests, or medical care related to another problem. To diagnose this condition, Mayo Clinic doctors perform a blood test called serum protein electrophoresis, which separates blood proteins into five parts. If a person has monoclonal gammopathy, an abnormal protein will show up. Specialized tests are then performed to further identify the abnormal protein. In many cases, patients who have the condition do not experience any symptoms.

Because the protein level can change, it is important to have it checked regularly. Any problem can then be detected early and appropriate evaluation and treatment can begin.

Treatment Options

Regular monitoring of MGUS is the most important part of treatment. No treatment is required for the abnormal protein, unless the condition progresses to multiple myeloma or another form of cancer. In the majority of patients this progression does not occur. Read more about treatment for monoclonal gammopathy.

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About Monoclonal Gammopathy

A monoclonal gammopathy indicates the presence of abnormal levels of a protein in the blood. The protein is produced by a group of cells in the bone marrow called plasma cells. Plasma cells are normally found in the bone marrow and represent approximately 1 percent of all marrow cells. They produce the antibodies that help the body fight infection. Abnormal proteins circulating in the blood are not rare. They occur in 1 percent of healthy people over the age of 50 and in 3 percent of people over the age of 70. Monoclonal gammopathy can occur in both sexes and in people of all backgrounds and occupations. In about 80 percent of cases, the abnormal protein does not cause any problems. However, over time, 20 percent of people will experience an increase in the amount of abnormal protein in their blood, which may develop into a more serious condition, including some forms of cancer.