Great question! The M spike itself is the same thing in both cases — it refers to an abnormal spike of monoclonal protein (M protein) detected in the blood. However, the context and cause can differ.
In myeloma, M protein is produced by abnormal plasma cells that have become cancerous. The M spike is a key marker used to Show Full Answer
Great question! The M spike itself is the same thing in both cases — it refers to an abnormal spike of monoclonal protein (M protein) detected in the blood. However, the context and cause can differ.
In myeloma, M protein is produced by abnormal plasma cells that have become cancerous. The M spike is a key marker used to diagnose and monitor myeloma. With COVID-19, research has suggested that the virus may affect the immune system in ways that could trigger abnormal plasma cell activity, potentially leading to an M spike. However, this does not automatically mean myeloma is present.
An M spike can also appear in conditions like MGUS (monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance), which is not cancer but does carry a small risk of progressing to myeloma.
Here's a simple breakdown:
- Same test, same marker — M protein detected via blood test
- Different causes — myeloma vs. immune system disruption from infection
- Not always cancer — an M spike needs further investigation to determine its cause
It's really important to discuss any M spike result with your oncology team so they can determine what's driving it and monitor it appropriately.
October 19
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