[Benign monoclonal gammopathies. Critical review]

During a review of the relevant literature, the view is expressed that the term "monoclonal" expresses no more than an operative concept. A classification of the benign monoclonal gammopathies is proposed in accordance with their aetiopathogenesis. Stress is laid on the importance of antigen stimuli and self-maintenance of the tumour mass below a certain number of cells. Reference is made to the possible typical symptomatology and criteria for the differential diagnosis of myeloma and Waldenström's disease are put forward. Inter alia, emphasis is placed on the little significance of Bence-Jones proteinuria for the purpose of differentiation. Models of atypical behaviour are presented.