Challenging diagnosis of IgM multiple myeloma

Abstract

IgM monoclonal gammopathies such as IgM myeloma and Waldenström macroglobulinaemia are distinct haematological conditions; however, differentiating between these entities can often present as a challenge.In this review, we explore the challenging diagnosis and treatment of IgM myeloma in a patient presenting with unexplained macrocytic anaemia, elevated serum protein and IgM levels in the absence of t(11;14) and lytic bone lesions that are classically associated with the diagnosis of IgM myeloma. The diagnosis was established based on 40% monoclonal plasma cell population on a bone marrow biopsy, gain of 1q21 on fluorescence in situ hybridisation, cyclin D1 positivity and absence of MYD88 mutation.