Diagnosis
The first step to take for successful treatment of the condition is early diagnosis. You will tell your healthcare provider about any health issues you’ve had in the past and undergo a physical examination. Your doctor will examine your lymph nodes, spleen, liver, and other vital organs for swelling.
You may have to undergo several tests such as:
- Blood tests: A sample of your blood will be taken by your physician. The sample will then be sent to a lab for observation. Blood tests are done to know the levels or state of your blood cells. The test can also be done to observe the level of immunoglobulin M proteins in the blood. Blood tests also evaluate the functions of your organs.
- Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy: Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia cells first develop in the bone marrow. You must undergo a bone marrow biopsy to check for cancer cells. The test must be done at the hospital. The aspiration process involves numbing a part of your hip and inserting a thin needle into that part. The needle collects some samples of liquid bone marrow. In a biopsy, another needle is inserted in the numbed part of your hip to collect samples of your bone marrow tissue. The samples are sent to a lab for further observation. Your bone marrow may also be tested for markers of Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia.
- Imaging tests: To know if the cancer cells have spread to other organs, your doctor may recommend some imaging tests such as a CT scan and X-rays. The two tests are mostly done with PET scans, which utilize a weakly radioactive element to find cancer cells.