If you’ve been told you have a precursor condition to multiple myeloma, such as MGUS, you might be wondering—what does that actually mean? While it can sound alarming, these conditions don’t always turn into cancer, and there are ways to monitor and manage them. Let’s break it down.
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What Are Precursor Conditions?
Precursor conditions to multiple myeloma are early, often symptom-free stages of the disease where abnormal plasma cells (crucial to your immune system) are present but haven’t yet caused significant damage. The two main types are:
Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS)
This is the earliest stage, where abnormal plasma cells produce M-protein, but no symptoms exist. Most people with MGUS never develop multiple myeloma, but some do, which is why doctors monitor it closely.
Smoldering Multiple Myeloma (SMM)
This is a more advanced precursor stage with higher abnormal plasma cells and M-protein levels. People with smoldering myeloma are at a greater risk of progressing to active multiple myeloma and need regular follow-ups.
Who’s Most at Risk?
Anyone can develop MGUS or smoldering myeloma, but some groups are at higher risk than others.
One key fact: Black Americans are two to three times more likely to be diagnosed with MGUS and multiple myeloma than white Americans.
Researchers are still working to understand why, but it may be due to genetic factors, environmental influences, or disparities in healthcare access. Additionally, precursor conditions are more common as people age.
MGUS is typically found in individuals over 50; the risk increases with each passing decade.
Do Precursor Conditions Cause Symptoms?
Most people with MGUS or smoldering myeloma feel perfectly fine, which is why these conditions are often discovered by accident during routine blood tests. However, some people with smoldering myeloma may experience mild symptoms, such as fatigue or bone pain. These should be discussed with your doctor immediately.
If you have been diagnosed with MGUS but have symptoms like neuropathy or renal failure, you should also visit a myeloma specialist. They can help you make sense of your case and try to help appropriately alleviate symptoms.
How Are Precursor Conditions Diagnosed?
Doctors use a combination of tests to diagnose precursor conditions:
- Blood tests to check for M-protein and other markers
- Urine tests to detect abnormal proteins
- Bone marrow biopsy to assess the number of abnormal plasma cells
- Imaging tests (like MRI or PET scans) to check for early bone damage
What Happens After Diagnosis?
If you’re diagnosed with MGUS or smoldering myeloma, your doctor will likely recommend regular check-ups instead of immediate treatment. The goal is to monitor your condition closely and catch any changes early. For some patients with high-risk smoldering myeloma (HRSMM)—meaning they have a greater chance of progressing to multiple myeloma—early treatment or participation in a clinical trial may be an option. Ongoing research is helping doctors determine the best ways to delay or prevent its progression.
What Can You Do?
Figure out if you’re at risk. If you have a first-degree relative—a parent, child, or sibling—who has been diagnosed with myeloma or a related blood disorder, you may be at a higher risk of developing it. Taking proactive steps can help with early detection and better outcomes. Consider enrolling in the PROMISE study, which offers free prescreening for individuals at increased risk.
Talk to your doctor about routine blood tests to monitor for early signs, stay informed about risk factors, and prioritize a healthy lifestyle to support overall well-being. Knowledge is power—being proactive could make all the difference in your health journey. If you’you’ven diagnosed with a precursor condition, there are steps you can take to stay on top of your health:
- Follow up with your doctor regularly to track any changes in your condition.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including eating a balanced diet, staying active, and managing stress.
- Learn about clinical trials, especially if you have high-risk smoldering myeloma.
- Advocate for yourself, particularly as a Black American, as you are part of a higher-risk group. Make sure you have access to the latest information and quality care.
Visit Black Myeloma Health for more resources.
Looking Ahead
A diagnosis of MGUS or smoldering myeloma does not mean you will develop multiple myeloma. Many people live for years without any progression. However, staying informed, keeping up with regular monitoring, and working with a multiple myeloma specialist can help you confidently navigate your condition.
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