MyMyelomaTeam

Why does protein in urine appear and disappear in MGUS patients?

In MGUS, abnormal plasma cells produce M protein, including light chains (also called Bence-Jones proteins). Your body eliminates extra light-chain proteins that aren't attached to heavy proteins through urine.

The appearance and disappearance of protein in Show Full Answer

Why does protein in urine appear and disappear in MGUS patients?

In MGUS, abnormal plasma cells produce M protein, including light chains (also called Bence-Jones proteins). Your body eliminates extra light-chain proteins that aren't attached to heavy proteins through urine.

The appearance and disappearance of protein in urine can happen because:

* The amount of M protein your abnormal plasma cells produce can fluctuate over time
* Light chain levels may vary, causing protein to show up intermittently in urine tests
* MGUS is generally a stable condition with low levels of abnormal protein, so levels may naturally rise and fall below detectable thresholds

Since MGUS typically involves much lower levels of abnormal plasma cells and M protein compared to multiple myeloma, the protein levels may not always be high enough to consistently appear in urine tests.

This is why doctors often recommend regular monitoring every 6-12 months with both blood and urine tests to track any changes in M protein levels over time.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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