What Are the Treatments for Waldenström Macroglobulinemia?
Understanding treatment options, goals, and what to expect is essential for achieving the best possible outcomes in Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM).
Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Treatment Plan
WM Treatment Goals
- Manage symptoms
- Improve IgM levels
- Improve hemoglobin levels
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Waldenström Macroglobulinemia (WM) Treatment: Why Timing Is Essential
What Are the Treatment Goals for Waldenström Macroglobulinemia?
WM Treatment Considerations
- Age
- Comorbidities (other existing health conditions)
- Current medications
- Genomic profile (e.g., MYD88 or CXCR4 mutations)
- Insurance coverage and financial considerations
- Patient preferences
- Risk tolerance
- Potential side effects
- Willingness or ability to undergo intravenous therapy
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Factors That Affect Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Treatment Decisions
Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Treatment Options
- Active surveillance (Watch and Wait): Careful monitoring of slow-growing or indolent WM without immediate treatment.
- Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy: Blocks specific genetic mutations to prevent cancer cell growth and division. Common types include:
- Kinase Inhibitors
- Monoclonal Antibody
- Proteasome Inhibitor
- Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to recognize and fight cancer cells.
- Plasmapheresis: Removes excess IgM protein in cases of hyperviscosity syndrome
- Stem Cell Transplant: Replaces unhealthy blood stem cells with healthy ones
- Radiation Therapy: not primary treatment, may be used to shrink enlarged lymph nodes or the spleen if they cause symptoms
- Clinical Trials: Investigates new and advanced treatment approaches for improved outcomes
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Exciting Advances in Waldenström Macroglobulinemia (WM) Treatment
Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Treatment & Clinical Trials Programs
Provides actionable advice and downloadable materials to help you communicate clearly and effectively with your WM healthcare team.
Topics:
- Understanding Waldenström Macroglobulinemia
- Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Treatment Approaches
- Tips for Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Patient Self-Advocacy
- Planning Your Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Doctor’s Office Visit
- Pro-Active Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Patient Resources
