Fact 7: The Connection with the Immune System
Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia, as a non-Hodgkin lymphoma, is intimately linked with the immune system. The disease originates in B cells, a type of white blood cell that usually helps in fighting off infections. In WM, these B cells become malignant and produce excessive amounts of a particular type of antibody called IgM.
The excessive production of IgM can lead to a thickening of the blood, known as hyperviscosity. This can impede the blood flow to various organs, causing complications. These could range from issues like blurred vision due to reduced blood flow to the eyes, or even more severe complications like stroke.
Though WM involves an overactive component of the immune system, it paradoxically can weaken it overall. This is because the malignant cells can crowd out other essential cells in the bone marrow, leading to an increased risk of infections. A weakened immune system is less effective in warding off pathogens, making WM patients more susceptible.
Apart from IgM, our body produces other vital immunoglobulins. Due to the overproduction of IgM in WM patients, there might be a decline in other immunoglobulins, leading to further vulnerability to infections. This imbalance can be monitored, and sometimes, patients might need supplemental immunoglobulins to bolster their defenses. (7)
