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Updated: Jul 24, 2026
Multifocal Electroretinograms
Published on: December 4, 2011
Retinopathy in a Patient With IgM MGUS: Causal Association or an Epiphenomenon?
Ioannis Ntanasis-Stathopoulos1, Efstathios Kastritis1, John Tzartos2
1Department of Clinical Therapeutics, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
Background/Aim:
The presence of a monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) even in small amounts may trigger tissue damage through immunological or other mechanisms, irrespective of the potential for malignant transformation. The aim of the study was to present a case of monoclonal gammopathy of clinical significance with ocular manifestations and discuss relevant literature.
Case Report:
In our case, a patient presented with vision disturbances that was eventually attributed to the underlying IgM MGUS after extensive workup to exclude other potential etiologies. The patient showed a clinical response with the fixed-duration DRC (dexamethasone, rituximab, cyclophosphamide) regimen that persisted for at least 1.5 years. Herein, we present, in detail, the patient management and discuss the underlying pathophysiology of this rare entity with few available published data in this field.
Conclusion:
A high level of clinical suspicion is necessary in order to detect the association between MGUS and a clinical sign or symptom that cannot be attributed elsewhere.
Insights
Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) can cause tissue damage. This case highlights ocular manifestations of IgM MGUS, emphasizing the need for clinical suspicion to diagnose such rare associations.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Hematology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) can induce tissue damage via immunological mechanisms, independent of malignant potential.
- Ocular manifestations associated with MGUS are rare but can significantly impact patient health.
- Understanding the clinical significance of MGUS beyond its premalignant potential is crucial.
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