Waldenstroms Macroglobulinemia Dictionary

pentamer: The IgM antibodies seen with Waldenstroms Macroglobulinemia are chains of five molecules called pentamers. Normal IgM molecules are monomers, and composed of a single molecule.

peripheral neuropathy: A term describing damage to the nerves of the peripheral nervous system that can occur in 10 percent of Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia patients.

plasma cells: Cells of the immune system that secrete large amounts of antibodies.

plasmacytoid lymphocytes: A type of white blood cell.

plasmapheresis: A method of obtaining or removing blood plasma. Blood is taken from the body, plasma separated from the whole blood and the rest of the blood is returned to the patient or donor's bloodstream.

purine nucleoside analogs: A family of anticancer medications.

purpura: A symptom of cryoglobulinemia that results in a purplish or red-brown discoloration of the skin.

raynaud's phenomenon:A vascular condition in which proteins called cryoglobulins clump together in the blood vessels of the fingers and toes due to cold or stress. Often seen in Waldenstroms Macroglobulinemia patients.

renal insufficiency: A possible symptom of Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia wherin the kidneys fail to function as they should.

retinal vascular dilation: An eye disorder in which blood vessels in the retina dilate, causing damage that can lead to vision loss.

rituximab: A monoclonal antibody used to treat some lymphomas.

splenectomy: Surgical removal of the spleen.

splenic radiation: Radiation used to shrink an enlarged spleen.

splenomegaly: An enlargement of the spleen that is common in 30 percent to 40 percent of Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia patients.

stem cell transplantation: A complex process where stem cells are administered after bone cancer treatment to help bone marrow function properly.

stem cell: Cells that have the potential to develop into multiple types of cells.