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In some cases, people can have Waldenstr?m macroglobulinemia (WM) for years without showing any symptoms. When signs appear, most are caused by low blood counts or thickened blood. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include:

Early symptoms

In its early stages, the disease may cause:

• Fatigue
• Frequent infections
• ¡°Pins and needles¡± feeling or numbness in feet and legs
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Unexplained fevers
• Heavy night sweats
• Ulcers on the lower legs

Late symptoms

As Waldenstr?m macroglobulinemia progresses, symptoms may include:

• Stroke-like symptoms, such as confusion, loss of coordination and dizziness
• Excessive bleeding, nosebleeds, bleeding gums
• Headaches
• Vision problems

Other conditions with similar symptoms

Most people with these symptoms do not have Waldenstr?m macroglobulinemia. Other conditions that share some of these symptoms include autoimmune diseases.

These conditions can be serious. Patients who have these symptoms should see their doctor.

Waldenstr?m macroglobulinemia risk factors

Factors that increase your chances of developing WM include a family history of the disease and a personal history of monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance (MGUS), a precancerous condition of the immune system.

Learn more about Waldenstr?m macroglobulinemia risk factors.

Waldenstr?m macroglobulinemia screening

There is no routine screening for Waldenstr?m macroglobulinemia. Patients with MGUS or a family history of this cancer should tell their primary care team so they can monitor for symptoms.