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Contents
  • Genetic Factors
  • Environmental Influences
  • Immune System Role

What Causes Waldenström Macroglobulinemia?

What Causes Waldenström Macroglobulinemia?

Unraveling the Mystery

The exact cause of Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) remains unknown, but research points to several genetic and environmental factors.
Contents
  • Genetic Factors
  • Environmental Influences
  • Immune System Role

Genetic Factors

WM often involves mutations in genes like MYD88, which are found in over 90% of patients. These mutations disrupt normal cell functions, contributing to the development of WM. Familial cases suggest a genetic predisposition, although most cases are sporadic.

Environmental Influences

Environmental exposures, such as pesticides and farming chemicals, have been linked to WM. Chronic infections, like hepatitis C, might also increase the risk. These factors suggest that both genetic and environmental elements play a role in WM's development.
Waldenström Macroglobulinemia is a rare blood cancer characterized by the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells. Genetic mutations, such as MYD88, and environmental factors like pesticide exposure are linked to its development.

Immune System Role

Chronic immune stimulation has been associated with WM. Conditions that cause prolonged immune response may trigger the abnormal growth of B cells, leading to WM. This highlights the complex interaction between the immune system and genetics.

FAQs

What genetic mutations are involved?

MYD88 mutations are common in WM.

Can environment affect WM risk?

Yes, exposure to pesticides and infections may increase risk.

How does the immune system relate?

Chronic immune stimulation may contribute to WM development.

Is WM hereditary?

There's a genetic predisposition, but most cases are sporadic.

The Bottom Line

Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the mystery of WM's causes.
Explore your risk factors with Doctronic to better understand WM and its causes.
Additional References
  1. Varettoni M, Zibellini S, Defrancesco I, et al. Pattern of somatic mutations in patients with Waldenström macroglobulinemia or IgM monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance. Haematologica 2017; 102:2077.
  2. Hunter ZR, Xu L, Yang G, et al. The genomic landscape of Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia is characterized by highly recurring MYD88 and WHIM-like CXCR4 mutations, and small somatic deletions associated with B-cell lymphomagenesis. Blood 2014; 123:1637.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.