IgG lambda myeloma is a subtype of multiple myeloma defined by two things: the type of antibody the myeloma cells produce (IgG) and the type of light chain attached to it (lambda).
Here's a quick breakdown:
- IgG — The most common myeloma type, making up about two-thirds of all cases. IgG is normally found in blood and body Show Full Answer
IgG lambda myeloma is a subtype of multiple myeloma defined by two things: the type of antibody the myeloma cells produce (IgG) and the type of light chain attached to it (lambda).
Here's a quick breakdown:
- IgG — The most common myeloma type, making up about two-thirds of all cases. IgG is normally found in blood and body fluids, helping protect against everyday infections.
- Lambda — Antibodies are made of heavy chains and light chains. Lambda is one of two possible light chain types (the other being kappa). In IgG lambda myeloma, the faulty M protein is built with lambda light chains. Together, "IgG lambda" describes the specific makeup of the abnormal M protein your myeloma cells are producing. Doctors use this information to monitor disease activity and guide treatment decisions.
The good news is that IgG myeloma is generally considered less aggressive than some other types, such as IgA myeloma. That said, every person's myeloma is unique, so it's always worth having a detailed conversation with your care team about what this means for your specific situation.
September 27