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Published on: March 20, 2021
[Clinical analysis of 15 patients with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia]
Ying Hu1, Shi-Lun Chen, Yu-Ping Zhong
1Department of Hematology and Oncology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100043, China.
Objective:
To explore the clinical characteristics of Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (WM) and enhance the level of diagnosis and treatment.
Method:
The data of 15 patients with WM in our hospital from November 1995 to October 2007 were retrospectively analyzed.
Results:
The median age was 68.5 (60 - 79) years, male/female = 2.75/1. Main clinical manifestations were fatigue, loss of weight, splenomegaly and lymphadenopathy. All the patients accepted the treatment of alkylating agents, purine nucleoside analogs, bortezomib or thalidomide respectively. The follow-up period for the patients was 4 months to 10 years and the median follow-up time was 82 months.
Conclusion:
WM may often be seen in old male patients with varied clinical manifestations. The primary treatment is chemotherapy, but the disease is incurable. Bortezomib and thalidomide may improve the therapeutic effect.
Insights
Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (WM) often affects older males with diverse symptoms. While chemotherapy is the primary treatment, newer agents like bortezomib and thalidomide show promise in improving outcomes for this incurable blood cancer.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Oncology
Context:
- Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (WM) is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder.
- Understanding its clinical presentation is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.
Purpose:
- To investigate the clinical features of Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia.
- To identify potential improvements in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for WM.
Summary:
- Retrospective analysis of 15 WM patients (median age 68.5 years, male/female ratio 2.75:1) revealed common symptoms including fatigue, weight loss, splenomegaly, and lymphadenopathy.
- Patients were treated with chemotherapy (alkylating agents, purine nucleoside analogs) or novel agents (bortezomib, thalidomide).
- Median follow-up was 82 months.
Impact:
- WM predominantly affects elderly males with varied clinical manifestations.
- Chemotherapy remains the cornerstone of WM treatment, though the disease is currently incurable.
- Emerging therapies like bortezomib and thalidomide may enhance therapeutic efficacy in WM management.
