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Waldenström Macroglobulinaemia is a rare type of blood cancer that develops from abnormal B lymphocytes, which produce excessive amounts of an antibody called immunoglobulin M (IgM). The abnormal cells mainly accumulate in the bone marrow, interfering with the production of healthy blood cells. High levels of IgM can also make the blood thicker than normal, a condition known as hyperviscosity.

Symptoms vary between individuals and may include tiredness, weakness, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, fever, enlarged lymph nodes, and recurrent infections. Some people develop headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, confusion, or nosebleeds because of increased blood viscosity. Anaemia is also common when abnormal cells crowd the bone marrow.

Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to measure IgM and other blood counts, serum protein studies, bone marrow examination, and imaging when required. Doctors may also perform genetic or molecular tests to help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment decisions.

Treatment depends on symptoms, IgM levels, overall health, and disease progression. Patients without significant symptoms may be monitored through regular check-ups. When treatment is needed, options can include targeted medicines, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, or combinations of these approaches. Plasmapheresis may be used urgently to reduce dangerously high IgM levels.

With appropriate monitoring and modern therapies, many patients can achieve long-term disease control.