Waldenstroms Macroglobulinemia Dictionary

fibrinogen: A soluble plasma glycoprotein synthesized by the liver. Patients of WM have decreased levels of this in their bloodstream.

fludarabine: An antimetabolic drug. Antimetabolic medication fights cancer by interfering with the division of cells and altering cell function.

fundoscope: A machine used to examine the portion of the eye opposite the pupil.

gel electrophoresis: A diagnostic tool that uses gel and electricity to separate proteins in a blood sample into different groups.

hepatomegaly: A condition of having an enlarged liver.

hepatosplenomegaly: A condition that results in an abnormally enlarged liver and spleen.

hyperviscosity: A condition that results in thick blood that slows circulation, the symptoms can be bleeding, headache, dizziness, hearing or visual problems.

IgM myeloma: A variety of Waldenstroms Macroglobulinemiathat occurs when high levels of IgM antibodies are found alongside bone lesions.

IgM: An antibody present on B cells. Too much IgM can result in hyperviscosity.

immunoglobulins: Another term for immune system antibodies.

indolent: Describes a disease that progresses slowly. Also describes any condition that causes little pain, or which is slow to heal.