AL amyloidosis associated with IgM monoclonal protein: a distinct clinical entity

Clin Lymphoma Myeloma. 2009 Mar;9(1):80-3. doi: 10.3816/CLM.2009.n.021.

Abstract

IgM-associated AL amyloidosis is rare and may represent a distinct entity. Sixty (7%) of 868 consecutive AL patients referred to our center had an IgM monoclonal protein. They were significantly older than non-IgM patients (median, 67 years vs. 62 years), had a higher frequency of lymph-node involvement (25% vs. 2%) and significantly lower median proteinuria (1.2 g/24h vs. 3.4 g/24h), N-terminal pro-natriuretic peptide type-B (1177 ng/L vs. 2135 ng/L) and troponin I (0.02 ng/mL vs. 0.05 ng/mL). In IgM patients, kappa light-chains were more frequent (42% vs. 23%) and the involved free light-chain concentration was lower (median 63 mg/L vs. 182 mg/L). Serum albumin and NT-proBNP were independent prognostic determinants. Response to treatment improved survival. The 14 patients who received melphalan/dexamethasone showed a 64% hematologic (complete remissions, 29%) and a 43% organ response rate. IgM-associated AL amyloidosis is a distinct entity, with less advanced organ dysfunction. Treatment with melphalan/ dexamethasone might be effective in these patients.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Amyloidosis / blood*
  • Amyloidosis / drug therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin Light Chains / blood
  • Immunoglobulin M / blood*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Immunoglobulin Light Chains
  • Immunoglobulin M