Monoclonal Gammopathy

Treatment

No treatment is required for the abnormal protein, but careful observation and follow-up are important. The level of abnormal protein in the blood can change over time, developing into more serious conditions.

Once a patient has been diagnosed with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance, it is important to have blood tests every year. This can be done as part of a routine physical. Further studies and tests may be necessary if results show a significant increase in the level of the abnormal protein.

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 be started. There are often many questions about the nature of the abnormal protein, the tests used to detect it and the problems that can occur, as well as the best method of monitoring the abnormal protein. The answers to these questions vary depending on each person's situation.

In about 80 percent of cases, the presence of the abnormal protein does not cause any problems. However, over time, 20 percent of people with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance will develop more serious conditions, including some forms of cancer.

According to current evidence, family members of someone who has monoclonal gammopathy do not appear to have a substantial increased risk of having this condition. So it is not necessary for healthy family members to be checked for an abnormal protein.

Researchers at Mayo are conducting studies using novel drugs to help slow down the disease and to identify patients at highest risk of developing more serious disease who may benefit from therapy or closer observation.