Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance

Ann Intern Med. 2022 Dec;175(12):ITC177-ITC192. doi: 10.7326/AITC202212200. Epub 2022 Dec 13.

Abstract

Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is of considerable clinical importance to primary care physicians given its high prevalence in the general population. MGUS has a variable but lifelong risk for progression to hematologic cancer, such as multiple myeloma, Waldenström macroglobulinemia, or light-chain amyloidosis. In addition, MGUS has been associated with several nonmalignant yet symptomatic disorders that require therapy directed toward eliminating the monoclonal gammopathy. Thus, it is important not only to understand the essentials of diagnosing and monitoring patients with MGUS but also to recognize when to refer patients with MGUS to a specialist.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Disease Progression
  • Humans
  • Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance* / complications
  • Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance* / diagnosis
  • Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance* / epidemiology
  • Multiple Myeloma* / complications
  • Multiple Myeloma* / diagnosis
  • Multiple Myeloma* / epidemiology
  • Paraproteinemias*
  • Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia* / complications
  • Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia* / therapy