What are the different types of multiple myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is classified based on the type of abnormal protein (called M protein) that the cancerous plasma cells produce. These proteins are made up of antibody chains, and the type determines how the disease behaves.
The main types include:
* IgG myeloma - The Show Full Answer
What are the different types of multiple myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is classified based on the type of abnormal protein (called M protein) that the cancerous plasma cells produce. These proteins are made up of antibody chains, and the type determines how the disease behaves.
The main types include:
* IgG myeloma - The most common type, affecting about two-thirds of people with myeloma
* IgA myeloma - The second most common, affecting about 1 in 5 people
* Light chain myeloma - Occurs in about 15% of cases when cancer cells produce only pieces of antibodies (light chain proteins). This can be further divided into kappa light chain or lambda light chain myeloma
* IgM, IgE, and IgD myeloma - Much rarer types
Each type can behave differently and may require different treatment approaches. IgA myeloma, for example, can be harder to track on standard blood tests and may be more aggressive.
Your oncology team will identify which type you have through blood tests and use this information to guide your treatment plan.
April 11
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