A retrospective study to evaluate the work-up and follow-up of patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance

Clin Lymphoma Myeloma Leuk. 2011 Aug;11(4):336-41. doi: 10.1016/j.clml.2011.02.002. Epub 2011 May 6.

Abstract

Background: Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is a plasma cell proliferative disorder that transforms into multiple myeloma and other serious B-cell disorders at an approximate rate of 1% per year; these patients are also at increased risk for fractures.

Patients and methods: We conducted a retrospective, multicenter study of 100 patients from seven community health clinics to gain a better understanding of the work-up, follow-up, and treatment of these patients.

Results: MGUS patients appear to undergo inadequate work-up, follow-up, and treatment in the community setting.

Conclusions: Physicians should adhere to recently established guidelines to ensure that MGUS patients receive optimal care for this condition.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bone Density
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Diphosphonates / therapeutic use*
  • Disease Progression
  • Early Diagnosis
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Fractures, Bone / etiology
  • Humans
  • Laboratory Proficiency Testing / methods
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance / complications
  • Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance / diagnosis*
  • Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance / therapy*
  • Multiple Myeloma / etiology
  • Retrospective Studies

Substances

  • Diphosphonates