monoclonal protein

Paraproteinemias may be categorized according to the type of monoclonal protein found in blood:

The light chain of the monoclonal protein is usually the kappa light chain.

Occasionally the monoclonal proteins produced by myeloma patients can be anti-dsDNA.

Several other illnesses can present with a monoclonal gammopathy, and the monoclonal protein may be the first discovery before a formal diagnosis is made:

A monoclonal protein (paraprotein) in either serum or urine (except in cases of true non-secretory myeloma)

A study of monoclonal protein levels conducted in Ghana showed a prevalence of MGUS of approximately 5.9% in African men over the age of 50.

The protein electrophoresis test should be repeated annually, and if there is any concern for a rise in the level of monoclonal protein, then prompt referral to a hematologist is required.

This is attributed to the IgM monoclonal protein increasing the viscosity of the blood by forming aggregates to each other, binding water through their carbohydrate component and by their interaction with blood cells.