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Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma) - Introduction

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 10/2023

ON THIS PAGE: You will find some basic information about Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia and the parts of the body it may affect. This is the first page of Cancer.Net’s Guide to Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma). Use the menu to see other pages. Think of that menu as a roadmap for this entire guide.

Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) that affects small lymphocytes, which are white blood cells.

About lymphoma and the lymph system

NHL is a term that refers to many types of cancer of the lymphatic system, which can have different symptoms and signs, physical findings, and treatment options.

The lymphatic system is made up of thin tubes that branch out to all parts of the body and helps fight infection. The lymphatic system carries lymph, a colorless fluid containing lymphocytes. Lymphocytes fight germs in the body. B-lymphocytes, also called B cells, make antibodies to fight bacteria. T-lymphocytes, or T cells, kill viruses and foreign cells and trigger the B cells to make antibodies.

Groups of bean-shaped organs called lymph nodes are located throughout the body at different sites in the lymphatic system. Lymph nodes are found in clusters in the abdomen, groin, pelvis, underarms, and neck. Other parts of the lymphatic system include the spleen, which makes lymphocytes and filters blood; the thymus, an organ under the breastbone; and the tonsils, located in the throat.

About lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma and Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia

Lymphoma begins when healthy cells in the lymphatic system change and grow out of control, which may form a tumor.

Lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma is an indolent or slow-growing form of B-cell NHL, and about 1% of people with NHL have this subtype. Lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma often involves the bone marrow, sometimes lymph nodes, and the spleen. In many people, this lymphoma produces a protein, called immunoglobulin M (IgM), that is found in the blood. If the lymphoma is producing IgM, the condition is called Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. The majority of cases of lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma are Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. This guide will use the term "Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia" to discuss both conditions.

Because lymphatic tissue is found in so many parts of the body, Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia can start almost anywhere and may spread to almost any organ in the body. When people are first diagnosed with the disease, it has usually already spread to the blood and bone marrow. It may also eventually affect the lymph nodes, liver, or spleen, and rarely the stomach, intestines, lungs, skin, or thyroid gland.

Because Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia is similar to some B-cell lymphomas or multiple myeloma, treatment can often be similar for these patients and you may be referred to see specialists for these diseases. You should talk with your health care team about your specific diagnosis and what treatment plan is best for you.

Learn more about the subtypes of NHL.

Looking for More of an Introduction?

If you would like more of an introduction, explore these related items. Please note that these links will take you to other sections on Cancer.Net:

The next section in this guide is Statistics. It helps explain the number of people who are diagnosed with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia and general survival rates. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma) - Statistics

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 10/2023

ON THIS PAGE: You will find information about the estimated number of people who will be diagnosed each year with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, also called lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma. You will also read general information on surviving the disease. Remember, survival rates depend on several factors, and no 2 people with cancer are the same. Use the menu to see other pages.

Every person is different, with different factors influencing their risk of being diagnosed with this cancer and the chance of recovery after a diagnosis. It is important to talk with your doctor about any questions you have around the general statistics provided below and what they may mean for you individually. The original source for these statistics is provided at the bottom of this page.

How many people are diagnosed with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia?

Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia is uncommon. Each year, an estimated 1,000 to 1,500 adults in the United States are diagnosed with the disease.

The chance of developing Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia increases as people get older. The average age of diagnosis is 70. The disease is less common in women than men and is far less common in Black people than White people.

What is the survival rate for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia?

There are different types of statistics that can help doctors evaluate a person’s chance of recovery from Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. These are called survival statistics. A specific type of survival statistic is called the relative survival rate. It is often used to predict how having cancer may affect life expectancy. Relative survival rate looks at how likely people with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia are to survive for a certain amount of time after their initial diagnosis or start of treatment compared to the expected survival of similar people without this cancer.

Example: Here is an example to help explain what a relative survival rate means. Please note this is only an example and not specific to this type of cancer. Let’s assume that the 5-year relative survival rate for a specific type of cancer is 90%. “Percent” means how many out of 100. Imagine there are 1,000 people without cancer, and based on their age and other characteristics, you expect 900 of the 1,000 to be alive in 5 years. Also imagine there are another 1,000 people similar in age and other characteristics as the first 1,000, but they all have the specific type of cancer that has a 5-year survival rate of 90%. This means it is expected that 810 of the people with the specific cancer (90% of 900) will be alive in 5 years.

It is important to remember that statistics on the survival rates for people with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia are only an estimate. They cannot tell an individual person if cancer will or will not shorten their life. Instead, these statistics describe trends in groups of people previously diagnosed with the same disease, including specific stages of the disease.

The 5-year relative survival rate for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia is about 78%.

The survival rates for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia vary based on several factors. These include the stage of cancer, a person’s age and general health, and how well the treatment plan works.

Experts measure relative survival rate statistics for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia every 5 years. This means the estimate may not reflect the results of advancements in how Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia is diagnosed or treated from the last 5 years. Talk with your doctor if you have any questions about this information. Learn more about understanding statistics.

Statistics adapted from the American Cancer Society website. (Source accessed March 2023.)

The next section in this guide is Risk Factors. It describes the factors that may increase the chance of developing Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma) - Risk Factors

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 10/2023

ON THIS PAGE: You will find out more about the factors that increase the chance of developing Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. Use the menu to see other pages.

What are the risk factors for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia?

A risk factor is anything that increases a person’s chance of developing cancer. Although risk factors often influence the development of cancer, most do not directly cause cancer. Some people with several risk factors never develop cancer, while others with no known risk factors do. Knowing your risk factors and talking about them with your doctor may help you make more informed lifestyle and health care choices.

The following factors may raise a person’s risk of developing Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia:

  • Age. The risk of Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia increases with age. It occurs most commonly in people older than 60.

  • Sex. Men are more likely to develop Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia than women.

  • Race. White people are more likely to develop Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia than Black people.

  • Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). MGUS is a buildup of monoclonal antibodies produced by abnormal plasma cells. MGUS does not generally cause symptoms or many health problems, although the abnormal antibody can occasionally bind to nerves and cause muscle weakness, tingling, or numbness. In rare cases, the monoclonal antibody can lead to a decrease in kidney function. But about 20% of people with MGUS will develop non-Hodgkin lymphoma or multiple myeloma within 20 years.

The next section in this guide is Symptoms and Signs. It explains what body changes or medical problems Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia can cause. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma) - Symptoms and Signs

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 10/2023

ON THIS PAGE: You will find out more about the changes and medical problems that can be a sign of Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. Use the menu to see other pages.

What are the signs and symptoms of Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia?

People with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia may experience one or more of the following symptoms or signs. Symptoms are changes that you can feel in your body. Signs are changes in something measured, like taking your blood pressure or doing a lab test. Together, symptoms and signs can help describe a medical problem. Sometimes, people with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia do not have any of the symptoms and signs described below. Or, the cause of a symptom or sign may be a medical condition that is not cancer.

  • Fatigue

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Enlarged lymph nodes or spleen

  • Numbness, weakness, or other nervous system problems, or pain in the hands or feet, also called peripheral neuropathy

  • Abdominal swelling and diarrhea

  • Weakness and shortness of breath

  • Infections

  • Raised pink or flesh-colored lesions on the skin

  • Changes in the color of the fingertips when exposed to cold

  • Changes in vision, which may include blurry vision or “double” vision

Certain symptoms, called B symptoms, may signal a more aggressive cancer. Doctors may refer to either “A” or “B” when describing the lymphoma.

A means that a person has not experienced B symptoms, listed below.

B means that a person has experienced the following symptoms:

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Unexplained fever

  • Heavy sweating, especially at night, which may drench one’s nightclothes or bed sheets.

  • Severe and/or extensive skin itchiness

Symptoms of hyperviscosity

Immunoglobulin M (IgM) proteins are large molecules. When they accumulate in the blood in high levels, the blood can become viscous or thick. This slows down the flow of blood to different parts of the body. Symptoms of hyperviscosity include:

  • Vision problems, especially blurred or double vision

  • Confusion

  • Dizziness

  • Loss of coordination

  • Headaches

  • Nosebleeds or bleeding gums

  • Fatigue

  • Shortness of breath

If you are concerned about any changes you experience, please talk with your doctor. Your doctor will try to understand what is causing your symptom(s). They may do an exam and order tests to understand the cause of the problem, which is called a diagnosis.

If cancer is diagnosed, relieving symptoms remains an important part of cancer care and treatment. Managing symptoms may also be called "palliative care" or "supportive care,” which is not the same as hospice care given at the end of life. This type of care focuses on managing symptoms and supporting people who face serious illnesses, such as cancer. You can receive palliative and supportive care at any time during cancer treatment. Learn more in this guide’s section on Coping with Treatment.

Be sure to talk with your health care team about the symptoms you experience, including any new symptoms or a change in symptoms.

The next section in this guide is Diagnosis. It explains what tests may be needed to learn more about the cause of the symptoms. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma) - Diagnosis

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 10/2023

ON THIS PAGE: You will find a list of common tests, procedures, and scans that doctors use to find the cause of a medical problem. Use the menu to see other pages.

Doctors use many tests to find, or diagnose, cancer. They also do tests to learn if cancer has spread to another part of the body from where it started. If the cancer has spread, it is called metastasis. Doctors may also do tests to learn which treatments could work best.

For most types of cancer, a biopsy is the only sure way for the doctor to know if an area of the body has cancer. In a biopsy, the doctor takes a small sample of tissue for testing in a laboratory. If a biopsy is not possible, the doctor may suggest other tests that will help make a diagnosis.

How Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia is diagnosed

There are different tests used for diagnosing Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. Not all tests described here will be used for every person. Your doctor may consider these factors when choosing a diagnostic test:

  • The type of cancer suspected

  • Your signs and symptoms

  • Your age and general health

  • The results of earlier medical tests

In addition to a physical examination, the following tests may be used to diagnose Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia:

Blood tests. Blood tests may include a CBC (complete blood count) with a differential (classification of the types of white cells) and an examination of the blood with a microscope. Blood tests can help your doctor diagnose Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. An increase in immunoglobulin M (IgM) can be found by protein electrophoresis, which is a method of separating proteins in the blood with an electric field.

Biopsy. A biopsy is the only way to make a definite diagnosis, even if other tests can suggest that cancer is present. During biopsy, a small amount of tissue is remoed for examination under a microscope. A pathologist analyzes the sample(s). A pathologist is a doctor who specializes in interpreting laboratory tests and evaluating cells, tissues, and organs to diagnose disease. The type of biopsy performed depends on the location of the cancer.

The most common type of biopsy for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia is either a bone marrow biopsy or a biopsy of the lymph nodes in the neck, under the arms, or in the groin. A biopsy may also be taken from the chest or abdomen while using a computed tomography (CT or CAT) scan to guide the doctor. More information on bone marrow biopsy and CT scan is below.

Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy. Lymphoma often spreads to the bone marrow, the spongy material in the center of bones where blood cells are produced. A sample of the bone marrow can be important to diagnose Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, and it can help find out if the cancer has spread.

Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy are done to examine the bone marrow. Bone marrow has both a solid and a liquid part. A bone marrow aspiration removes a sample of the liquid with a needle. A bone marrow biopsy is the removal of a small amount of solid tissue using a different needle. These procedures are often done at the same time and may be called a bone marrow examination.

A pathologist then analyzes the sample(s). A common site for a bone marrow aspiration and biopsy is the pelvic bone, which is located in the lower back by the hip. Doctors generally give a type of medication called local anesthesia beforehand to numb the area. Local anesthesia is an injection that numbs the procedure area. Stronger types of anesthesia can also be used to lessen the pain.

Tests on the biopsy sample may be done to examine proteins on the tumor cells in order to distinguish Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia from other types of B-cell lymphomas. These types of tests are called immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry.

Biomarker testing of the tumor. Your doctor may recommend running laboratory tests on a tissue sample and/or bone marrow sample to find specific genes, proteins, and other factors unique to the tumor. This may also be called molecular testing of the tumor. This type of testing can also help distinguish Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia from other B-cell lymphomas. Doctors look for a mutation in the MYD88 gene. This mutation is usually found in people with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, but some people whose tissue sample has this mutation might have a different lymphoma or other disease. Other molecular markers are being studied to help guide prognosis and treatment recommendations.

Computed tomography (CT or CAT) scan. A CT scan takes pictures of the inside of the body using x-rays taken from different angles. A computer combines these pictures into a detailed, 3-dimensional image that shows any abnormalities or tumors. A CT scan can be used to measure the tumor’s size. Sometimes, special dyes, called contrast mediums, are given before the scan to provide better detail on the image. Dyes are injected into a patient’s vein or given as a pill or liquid to swallow.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI produces detailed images of the inside of the body using magnetic fields, not x-rays. MRI can be used to measure the tumor’s size. A special dye called a contrast medium is given before the scan to create a clearer picture. This dye is injected into a patient’s vein.

Positron emission tomography (PET) or PET-CT scan. A PET scan creates pictures of organs and tissues inside the body. A PET scan is usually combined with a CT scan (see above), called a PET-CT scan. However, you may hear your doctor refer to this procedure just as a PET scan. A small amount of a radioactive sugar substance is injected into the patient’s body. This sugar substance is taken up by cells that use the most energy. Because cancer tends to use energy actively, it absorbs more of the radioactive substance. However, the amount of radiation in the substance is too low to be harmful. A scanner then detects this substance to produce images of the inside of the body.

Funduscopic evaluation. This exam of the eye is done by an ophthalmologist. An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in eye care. This test looks at the blood vessels of the eye, which may be altered in people with high IgM and increased blood viscosity.

Urine tests. The doctor tests a urine sample to check for abnormal proteins in the body.

After diagnostic tests are done, your doctor will review the results with you. If the diagnosis is cancer, these results also help the doctor describe the extent of spread of the cancer. This is called staging.

The next section in this guide is Stages. It explains the system doctors use to describe the extent of Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma) - Stages

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 10/2023

ON THIS PAGE: You will learn about how doctors describe a cancer’s growth or spread. This is called the stage. Use the menu to see other pages.

What is cancer staging?

Staging is a way of describing where the cancer is located, if or where it has spread, and whether it is affecting other parts of the body.

Doctors use diagnostic tests to find out the cancer's stage, so staging may not be complete until all the tests are finished. Knowing the stage helps the doctor recommend the best kind of treatment, and it can help predict a patient's prognosis, which is the chance of recovery. There are different stage descriptions for different types of cancer.

There is no standard system for staging Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. Instead, doctors may look at several factors to determine a prognosis:

  • the severity of a patient’s anemia

  • the patient's age

  • a low level of red blood cells

  • the amount of immunoglobulin M (IgM) in the blood

  • the amount of a protein in the blood called beta-2-microglobulin

  • the extent of lymph node or spleen enlargement

People with low beta-2-microglobulin levels and normal hemoglobin—which is the protein that carries oxygen in a red blood cell—typically have a better prognosis. Younger patients and those with lower levels of IgM in the blood also tend to have a better prognosis.

Information about the cancer’s factors will help the doctor recommend a specific treatment plan. The next section in this guide is Types of Treatment. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma) - Types of Treatment

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 10/2023

ON THIS PAGE: You will learn about the different types of treatments doctors use for people with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. Use the menu to see other pages.

This section explains the types of treatments, also known as therapies, that are the standard of care for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. “Standard of care” means the best treatments known. Information in this section is based on medical standards of care for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia in the United States. Treatment options can vary from one place to another.

When making treatment plan decisions, you are encouraged to discuss with your doctor whether clinical trials offer additional options to consider. A clinical trial is a research study that tests a new approach to treatment. Doctors learn through clinical trials whether a new treatment is safe, effective, and possibly better than the standard treatment. Clinical trials can test a new drug, a new combination of standard treatments, or new doses of standard drugs or other treatments. Clinical trials are an option for all stages of cancer. Your doctor can help you consider all your treatment options. Learn more about clinical trials in the About Clinical Trials and Latest Research sections of this guide.

How Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia is treated

In cancer care, different types of doctors who specialize in cancer, called oncologists, often work together to create a patient’s overall treatment plan that combines different types of treatments. This is called a multidisciplinary team. Cancer care teams include other health care professionals, such as physician assistants, nurse practitioners, oncology nurses, social workers, pharmacists, counselors, dietitians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and others. Learn more about the clinicians who provide cancer care.

Treatment options and recommendations depend on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, possible side effects, and the patient’s preferences and overall health. Take time to learn about all of your treatment options and be sure to ask questions about things that are unclear. Also, talk about the goals of each treatment with your doctor and what you can expect while receiving the treatment. These types of conversations are called "shared decision-making." Shared decision-making is when you and your doctors work together to choose treatments that fit the goals of your care. Shared decision-making is important for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia because there are different treatment options. Learn more about making treatment decisions.

The common types of treatments used for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia are described below. Your care plan also includes treatment for symptoms and side effects, an important part of cancer care.

READ MORE BELOW:

Watchful waiting

Some people with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia may not need immediate treatment if they are otherwise healthy and the disease is not causing any symptoms or problems. In these situations, patients are closely monitored, and active treatment begins if symptoms develop or the immunoglobulin M (IgM) level increases. This approach may be called watchful waiting, watch-and-wait, or active surveillance. There is very good evidence that, in some people with low-grade lymphoma, watchful waiting does not affect the chances of survival as long as the patient receives regular and careful follow-up. Sometimes, treatment can be delayed for many months or even years.

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Plasma exchange

Plasma exchange, also called plasmapheresis, is used to reduce the thickness of the blood. It is done to help relieve the symptoms of hyperviscosity in people with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia caused by an elevated IgM level. Caring for a person's symptoms and side effects is an important part of the overall cancer treatment plan.

During this procedure, blood is taken from a vein, and plasma is removed from the body after it is separated from the red and white blood cells. Plasma is the liquid part of the blood. The blood cells are then mixed with a plasma substitute, usually an albumin solution, and returned to the patient. A plasma exchange is usually done using a blood cell separator. This treatment is generally used as a temporary treatment until a person receives treatment with medication (see below), which can provide control of IgM proteins over a longer time.

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Therapies using medication

The treatment plan may include medications to destroy cancer cells. Medication may be given through the bloodstream to reach cancer cells throughout the body. When a drug is given this way, it is called systemic therapy. Medication may also be given locally, which is when the medication is applied directly to the cancer or kept in a single part of the body.

This treatment is generally prescribed by a medical oncologist, a doctor who specializes in treating cancer with medication.

Medications are often given through an intravenous (IV) tube placed into a vein using a needle or as a pill or capsule that is swallowed (orally). If you are given oral medications to take at home, be sure to ask your health care team about how to safely store and handle them.

The types of medications used for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia include:

  • Chemotherapy

  • Targeted therapy

Each of these types of therapies is discussed below in more detail. A person may receive 1 type of medication at a time or a combination of medications given at the same time.

The medications used to treat cancer are continually being evaluated. Talking with your doctor is often the best way to learn about the medications prescribed for you, their purpose, and their potential side effects or interactions with other medications.

It is also important to let your doctor know if you are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medications or supplements. Herbs, supplements, and other drugs can interact with cancer medications, causing unwanted side effects or reduced effectiveness. Learn more about your prescriptions by using searchable drug databases.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells, usually by keeping the cancer cells from growing, dividing, and making more cells.

A chemotherapy regimen, or schedule, usually consists of a specific number of cycles given over a set period of time. A patient may receive 1 drug at a time or a combination of different drugs given at the same time. Common drugs for treating Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia that is causing symptoms or is growing or spreading include:

  • Bendamustine (Treanda), which is used to treat Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia when it is first diagnosed or when it returns

  • Cyclophosphamide (available as a generic drug)

  • Fludarabine (Fludara)

Sometimes, cladribine (Leustatin) or chlorambucil (Leukeran) may also be used.

The side effects of chemotherapy depend on the individual, the type of drug and the dose used, but they can include fatigue, risk of infection, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, and diarrhea. These side effects usually go away after treatment is finished.

Learn more about the basics of chemotherapy.

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Targeted therapy

Targeted therapy is a treatment that targets the cancer’s specific genes, proteins, or the tissue environment that contributes to cancer growth and survival. This type of treatment blocks the growth and spread of cancer cells and limits damage to healthy cells.

Not all tumors have the same targets. To find the most effective treatment, your doctor may run tests to identify the genes, proteins, and other factors in your tumor. This helps doctors better match each patient with the most effective treatment whenever possible. In addition, research studies continue to find out more about specific molecular targets and new treatments directed at them. Learn more about the basics of targeted treatments.

Targeted therapy for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia includes monoclonal antibodies. A monoclonal antibody is a type of targeted therapy. It is directed against a specific protein in the cancer cells, and it does not affect cells that do not have that protein. Rituximab (Rituxan) is a monoclonal antibody used to treat many different types of B-cell lymphoma.

Rituximab works by targeting a molecule on the surface of cells called CD20. When the antibody attaches to CD20, some lymphoma cells are destroyed, and others appear to become more susceptible to chemotherapy. Rituximab can be used either alone or in combination with chemotherapy for people with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. Although it is effective by itself, there is increasing evidence that rituximab works better when combined with chemotherapy to treat many types of B-cell lymphomas.

Other anti-CD20 antibodies work in similar ways and include obinutuzumab (Gazyva), ofatumumab (Arzerra), and rituximab-abbs (Truxima).

Ibrutinib (Imbruvica) and zanubrutinib (Brukinsa) are a type of targeted therapy called a kinase inhibitor. These drugs target Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) proteins in cancerous B cells and are approved to treat Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. Bortezomib (Velcade) is another type of targeted therapy called a proteasome inhibitor, targeting specific enzymes called proteasomes that digest proteins in the cells.

Talk with your doctor about possible side effects for each targeted therapy and how they can be managed.

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Bone marrow transplant/stem cell transplant

A stem cell transplantation is a medical procedure in which specialized cells, called hematopoietic stem cells, are collected from the the blood circulating through the body, called peripheral blood, so they may develop into healthy bone marrow. Hematopoietic stem cells are blood-forming cells found both in the bloodstream and in the bone marrow. Sometimes, the stem cells are collected from bone marrow, so the procedure may also be called a bone marrow transplantation. You may also hear this procedure called a hematopoietic stem cell transplant.

Transplantation is only used in certain cases of Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia because most patients are older, the treatment does not work equally well for each patient, and there are serious risks with this treatment. Side effects depend on the type of transplant, your general health, and other factors. Learn more about the basics of a stem cell and bone marrow transplant.

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Physical, emotional, social, and financial effects of cancer

Cancer and its treatment cause physical symptoms and side effects, as well as emotional, social, and financial effects. Managing all of these effects is called palliative and supportive care. It is an important part of your care that is included along with treatments intended to slow, stop, or eliminate the cancer.

Palliative and supportive care focuses on improving how you feel during treatment by managing symptoms and supporting patients and their families with other, non-medical needs. Any person, regardless of age or type and stage of cancer, may receive this type of care. And it often works best when it is started right after a cancer diagnosis. People who receive palliative and supportive care along with treatment for the cancer often have less severe symptoms, better quality of life, and report that they are more satisfied with treatment.

Palliative treatments vary widely and often include medication, nutritional changes, relaxation techniques, emotional and spiritual support, and other therapies. For instance, plasma exchange (described above) is a type of supportive care. You may also receive palliative treatments, such as chemotherapy, to improve symptoms.

Before treatment begins, talk with your doctor about the goals of each treatment in the recommended treatment plan. You should also talk about the possible side effects of the specific treatment plan and palliative and supportive care options. Many patients also benefit from talking with a social worker and participating in support groups. Ask your doctor about these resources, too.

Cancer care is often expensive, and navigating health insurance can be difficult. Ask your doctor or another member of your health care team about talking with a financial navigator or counselor who may be able to help with your financial concerns.

During treatment, your health care team may ask you to answer questions about your symptoms and side effects and to describe each problem. Be sure to tell the health care team if you are experiencing a problem. This helps the health care team treat any symptoms and side effects as quickly as possible. It can also help prevent more serious problems in the future.

Learn more about the importance of tracking side effects in another part of this guide. Learn more about palliative and supportive care in a separate section of this website.

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Refractory Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia

If treatment does not stop or eliminate the disease, this is called refractory Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. If this happens, it is a good idea to talk with doctors who have experience in treating it. Doctors can have different opinions about the best standard treatment plan. Usually, your doctor may try one of the other available treatments discussed above. Clinical trials might also be an option. Learn more about getting a second opinion before starting treatment, so you are comfortable with your chosen treatment plan.

Your treatment plan may include a combination of different medications to treat the cancer. Palliative and supportive care will also be important to help relieve symptoms and side effects.

For many people, this diagnosis is very stressful and difficult. You and your family are encouraged to talk about how you are feeling with doctors, nurses, social workers, or other members of your health care team. It may also be helpful to talk with other patients, such as through a support group or other peer support program.

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Remission and the chance of recurrence

A remission is when cancer cannot be detected in the body and there are no symptoms. This may also be called having “no evidence of disease” or NED.

A remission is usually temporary, even though it can last several years for some people. This uncertainty causes many people to worry about when the cancer will come back. It is important to talk with your doctor about the possibility of the cancer returning. Understanding your risk of recurrence and the treatment options may help you feel more prepared if the cancer does return. Learn more about coping with the fear of recurrence.

If Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia comes back after the original treatment, it is called recurrent or relapsed disease. If a recurrence happens, a new cycle of testing will begin to learn as much as possible about it. Very rarely, the recurrence may come as a different type of lymphoma, usually diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

After this testing is done, you and your doctor will talk about the treatment options. Often the treatment plan will include the treatments described above, such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and rarely, bone marrow/stem cell transplantation. But they may be used in a different combination or given at a different pace. Your doctor may suggest clinical trials that are studying new ways to treat recurrent Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. There are currently several new drugs and combinations of different therapies being researched in clinical trials. Whichever treatment plan you choose, palliative and supportive care will be important for relieving symptoms and side effects.

People with recurrent cancer sometimes experience emotions such as disbelief or fear. You are encouraged to talk with your health care team about these feelings and ask about support services to help you cope. Learn more about dealing with cancer recurrence.

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If treatment does not work

Recovery from cancer is not always possible. If the cancer cannot be cured or controlled, the disease may be called advanced or terminal.

This diagnosis is stressful, and for some people, advanced cancer is difficult to discuss. However, it is important to have open and honest conversations with your health care team to express your feelings, preferences, and concerns. The health care team has special skills, experience, and knowledge to support patients and their families and is there to help. Making sure a person is physically comfortable, free from pain, and emotionally supported is extremely important.

Planning for your future care and putting your wishes in writing is important, especially at this stage of disease. Then, your health care team and loved ones will know what you want, even if you are unable to make these decisions. Learn more about putting your health care wishes in writing.

People who have advanced cancer and who are expected to live less than 6 months may want to consider hospice care. Hospice care is designed to provide the best possible quality of life for people who are near the end of life. You and your family are encouraged to talk with your doctor or a member of your palliative care team about hospice care options, which include hospice care at home, a special hospice center, or other health care locations. Nursing care and special equipment can make staying at home a workable option for many families. Learn more about advanced cancer care planning.

After the death of a loved one, many people need support to help them cope with the loss. Learn more about grief and loss.

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The next section in this guide is About Clinical Trials. It offers more information about research studies that are focused on finding better ways to care for people with cancer. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma) - About Clinical Trials

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 10/2023

ON THIS PAGE: You will learn more about clinical trials, which are the main way that new medical approaches are studied to see how well they work. Use the menu to see other pages.

What are clinical trials?

Doctors and scientists are always looking for better ways to care for people with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. To make scientific advances, doctors create research studies involving volunteers, called clinical trials. Every drug that is now approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was tested in clinical trials.

Clinical trials are used for all types and stages of Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. Many focus on new treatments to learn if a new treatment is safe, effective, and possibly better than the existing treatments. These types of studies evaluate new drugs, different combinations of existing treatments, new approaches to systemic therapy or surgery, and new methods of treatment.

People who participate in clinical trials can be some of the first to get a treatment before it is available to the public. However, there are some risks with a clinical trial, including possible side effects and the chance that the new treatment may not work. People are encouraged to talk with their health care team about the pros and cons of joining a specific study.

Some clinical trials study new ways to relieve symptoms and side effects during treatment. Others study ways to manage the late effects that may happen a long time after treatment. Talk with your doctor about clinical trials for symptoms and side effects.

Deciding to join a clinical trial

People decide to participate in clinical trials for many reasons. For some, a clinical trial is the best treatment option available. Because standard treatments are not perfect, patients are often willing to face the added uncertainty of a clinical trial in the hope of a better result. Others volunteer for clinical trials because they know that these studies are a way to contribute to the progress in treating Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. Even if they do not benefit directly from the clinical trial, their participation may benefit future people with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia.

Insurance coverage and the costs of clinical trials differ by location and by study. In some programs, some of the expenses from participating in the clinical trial are reimbursed. In others, they are not. It is important to talk with the research team and your insurance company first to learn if and how your treatment in a clinical trial will be covered. Learn more about health insurance coverage of clinical trials.

Sometimes people have concerns that, in a clinical trial, they may receive no treatment by being given a placebo or a “sugar pill.” When used, placebos are usually combined with standard treatment in most cancer clinical trials. Study participants will always be told when a placebo is used in a study. Find out more about placebos in cancer clinical trials.

Patient safety and informed consent

To join a clinical trial, people must participate in a process known as informed consent. During informed consent, the doctor should:

  • Describe all of the treatment options so that the person understands the standard treatments, and how the new treatment differs from the standard treatment.

  • List all of the risks of the new treatment, which may or may not be different than the risks of standard treatment.

  • Explain what will be required of each person in order to participate in the clinical trial, including the number of doctor visits, tests, and the schedule of treatment.

  • Describe the purposes of the clinical trial and what researchers are trying to learn.

Clinical trials also have certain rules called “eligibility criteria” that help structure the research and keep patients safe. You and the research team will carefully review these criteria together. You will need to meet all of the eligibility criteria in order to participate in a clinical trial. Learn more about eligibility criteria in clinical trials.

People who participate in a clinical trial may stop participating at any time for personal or medical reasons. This may include that the new treatment is not working or there are serious side effects. Clinical trials are also closely monitored by experts who watch for any problems with each study. It is important that people participating in a clinical trial talk with their doctor and researchers about who will be providing their treatment and care during the clinical trial, after the clinical trial ends, and/or if they choose to leave the clinical trial before it ends.

Finding a clinical trial

Research through clinical trials is ongoing for all types of cancer. For specific topics being studied for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, learn more in the Latest Research section.

Cancer.Net offers more information about cancer clinical trials in other areas of the website, including a complete section on clinical trials.

There are many resources and services to help you search for clinical trials for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, including the following services. Please note that these links will take you to separate, independent websites:

  • ClinicalTrials.gov. This U.S. government database lists publicly and privately supported clinical trials.

  • World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. The WHO coordinates health matters within the United Nations. This search portal gathers clinical trial information from many countries’ registries.

Read more about the basics of clinical trials matching services.

The next section in this guide is Latest Research. It explains areas of scientific research for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma) - Latest Research

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 10/2023

ON THIS PAGE: You will read about the scientific research being done to learn more about Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia and how to treat it. Use the menu to see other pages.

Doctors are working to learn more about Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, ways to prevent it, how to best treat it, and how to provide the best care to people diagnosed with this disease. The following areas of research may include new options for patients through clinical trials. Always talk with your doctor about the best diagnostic and treatment options for you.

  • New treatments and targeted therapies. As explained in Types of Treatment, targeted therapy can block tumor growth in different ways. Other medications that target how B cells develop are also being studied for the treatment of Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia.

  • Drug combinations. Drug combinations are being studied to treat Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. Clinical trials are investigating using targeted therapies, such as rituximab and Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors, combined with each other or chemotherapy as a way to eliminate more cancer cells.

  • Palliative and supportive care. Clinical trials are underway to find better ways of reducing symptoms and side effects of current Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia treatments to improve comfort and quality of life for patients.

Looking for More about the Latest Research?

If you would like more information about the latest areas of research in Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, explore these related items that take you outside of this guide:

The next section in this guide is Coping with Treatment. It offers some guidance on how to cope with the physical, emotional, social, and financial changes that cancer and its treatment can bring. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma) - Coping with Treatment

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 10/2023

ON THIS PAGE: You will learn more about coping with the physical, emotional, social, and financial effects of cancer and its treatment. Use the menu to see other pages.

Every cancer treatment can cause side effects or changes to your body and how you feel. For many reasons, people do not experience the same side effects even when they are given the same treatment for the same type of cancer. This can make it hard to predict how you will feel during treatment.

READ MORE BELOW:

As you prepare to start cancer treatment, it is normal to fear treatment-related side effects. It may help to know that your health care team will work to prevent and relieve side effects. This part of cancer treatment is called palliative and supportive care. It is an important part of your treatment plan, regardless of your age or the stage of disease.

Coping with physical side effects

Common physical side effects from each treatment option for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia are described in the Types of Treatment section. Learn more about side effects of cancer and its treatment, along with ways to prevent or control them. Changes to your physical health depend on several factors, including the cancer’s stage, the length and dose of treatment, and your general health.

Talk with your health care team regularly about how you are feeling. It is important to let them know about any new side effects or changes in existing side effects. If they know how you are feeling, they can find ways to relieve or manage your side effects to help you feel more comfortable and potentially keep any side effects from worsening.

You may find it helpful to keep track of your side effects so it is easier to talk about any changes with your health care team. Learn more about why tracking side effects is helpful.

Sometimes, side effects can last after treatment ends. Doctors call these long-term side effects. Side effects that occur months or years after treatment are called late effects. Treating long-term side effects and late effects is an important part of survivorship care. Learn more by reading the Follow-up Care section of this guide or talking with your doctor.

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Coping with emotional and social effects

You can have emotional and social effects after a cancer diagnosis. This may include dealing with a variety of emotions, such as sadness, anxiety, fear, or anger, or managing stress. Sometimes, people find it difficult to express how they feel to their loved ones. Some have found that talking to an oncology social worker, counselor, or member of the clergy can help them develop more effective ways of coping and talking about cancer.

You can also find coping strategies for emotional and social effects in a separate section of this website. This section includes many resources for finding support and information to meet your needs.

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Coping with the costs of cancer care

Cancer treatment can be expensive. It may be a source of stress and anxiety for people with cancer and their families. In addition to treatment costs, many people find they have extra, unplanned expenses related to their care. For some people, the high cost of medical care stops them from following or completing their cancer treatment plan. This can put their health at risk and may lead to higher costs in the future. Patients and their families are encouraged to talk about financial concerns with a member of their health care team. Learn more about managing financial considerations in a separate part of this website.

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Coping with barriers to care

Some groups of people experience different rates of new cancer cases and experience different outcomes from their cancer diagnosis. These differences are called “cancer disparities.” Disparities are caused in part by real-world barriers to quality medical care and social determinants of health, such as where a person lives and whether they have access to food and health care. Cancer disparities more often negatively affect racial and ethnic minorities, people with fewer financial resources, sexual and gender minorities (LGBTQ+), adolescent and young adult populations, adults older than 65, and people who live in rural areas or other underserved communities.

If you are having difficulty getting the care you need, talk with a member of your health care team or explore other resources that help support medically underserved people.

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Talking with your health care team about side effects

Before starting treatment, talk with your doctor about possible side effects. Ask:

  • Which side effects are most likely?

  • When are they likely to happen?

  • What can we do to prevent or relieve them?

  • When and who should I call about side effects?

Be sure to tell your health care team about any side effects that happen during treatment and afterward, too. Tell them even if you do not think the side effects are serious. This discussion should include physical, emotional, social, and financial effects of cancer.

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Caring for a loved one with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia

Family members and friends often play an important role in taking care of a person with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. This is called being a caregiver. Caregivers can provide physical, practical, and emotional support to the patient, even if they live far away. Being a caregiver can also be stressful and emotionally challenging. One of the most important tasks for caregivers is caring for themselves.

Caregivers may have a range of responsibilities on a daily or as-needed basis, including:

  • Providing support and encouragement

  • Talking with the health care team

  • Giving medications

  • Helping manage symptoms and side effects

  • Coordinating medical appointments

  • Providing a ride to and from appointments

  • Assisting with meals

  • Helping with household chores

  • Handling insurance and billing issues

A caregiving plan can help caregivers stay organized and help identify opportunities to delegate tasks to others. It may be helpful to ask the health care team how much care will be needed at home and with daily tasks during and after treatment. Use this 1-page fact sheet to help make a caregiving action plan. This free fact sheet is available as a PDF, so it is easy to print.

Learn more about caregiving or read the ASCO Answers Guide to Caring for a Loved One With Cancer in English or Spanish.

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Looking for More on How to Track Side Effects?

Cancer.Net offers several resources to help you keep track of your symptoms and side effects. Please note that these links will take you to other sections of Cancer.Net:

  • ASCO Answers Fact Sheets: Read 1-page fact sheets on anxiety and depression, constipation, diarrhea, and rash that provide a tracking sheet to record details about the side effect. These free fact sheets are available as a PDF, so they are easy to print, fill out, and give to your health care team.

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The next section in this guide is Follow-up Care. It explains the importance of checkups after you finish cancer treatment. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma) - Follow-Up Care

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 10/2023

ON THIS PAGE: You will read about your medical care after cancer treatment is completed and why this follow-up care is important. Use the menu to see other pages.

Care for people diagnosed with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia does not end when active treatment has finished. Your health care team will continue to check that the cancer has not come back, manage any side effects, and monitor your overall health. This is called follow-up care.

Your follow-up care may include regular physical examinations, medical tests, or both. Doctors want to keep track of your recovery in the months and years ahead. This plan may include regular physical examinations and/or medical tests to monitor your recovery for the coming months and years. Typically, follow-up visits are most frequent in the first 3 years after treatment for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia.

Your doctor will periodically check the immunoglobulin M (IgM) in your blood to check for recurrence, along with an examination for enlarged lymph nodes or spleen. Tests such as CT scans or PET-CT scans (see Diagnosis) may also be recommended.

Cancer rehabilitation may be recommended, and this could mean any of a wide range of services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, career counseling, pain management, nutritional planning, and/or emotional counseling. The goal of rehabilitation is to help people regain control over many aspects of their lives and remain as independent as possible. Learn more about cancer rehabilitation.

Several long-term side effects of cancer treatment may occur:

  • Heart damage in the form of a weakened heart muscle may occur in people who have received a higher dose of doxorubicin.

  • Infertility, which is the physical inability to have a child, as well as premature, or early, menopause can occur in people who have received high-dose cyclophosphamide or other types of chemotherapy.

  • Secondary cancers, which are other cancers that develop because of the original cancer treatments, are more common in people who received some types of chemotherapy.

Talk with your doctor about possible long-term effects of specific treatments you received. Learn more about the importance of follow-up care.

Watching for recurrence

One goal of follow-up care is to check for a recurrence, which means that the cancer has come back. Cancer recurs because small areas of cancer cells may remain undetected in the body. Over time, these cells may increase in number until they show up on test results or cause signs or symptoms. During follow-up care, a doctor familiar with your medical history can give you personalized information about your risk of recurrence. Your doctor will ask specific questions about your health. Some people may have blood tests or imaging tests done as part of regular follow-up care, but testing recommendations depend on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer first diagnosed and the types of treatment given.

The anticipation before having a follow-up test or waiting for test results can add stress to you or a family member. This is sometimes called “scanxiety.” Learn more about how to cope with this type of stress.

Managing long-term and late side effects

Most people expect to have side effects when receiving treatment. However, it is often surprising to survivors that some side effects may linger beyond the treatment period. These are called long-term side effects. Other side effects called late effects may develop months or even years after treatment has ended. Long-term and late effects can include both physical and emotional changes.

Talk with your doctor about your risk of developing such side effects based on your diagnosis, your individual treatment plan, and your overall health. If you had a treatment known to cause specific late effects, you may have certain physical examinations, scans, or blood tests to help find and manage them.

Keeping personal health records

You and your doctor should work together to develop a personalized follow-up care plan. Be sure to discuss any concerns you have about your future physical or emotional health. The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) offers forms to help keep track of the cancer treatment you received and develop a survivorship care plan when treatment is completed.

This is also a good time to talk with your doctor about who will lead your follow-up care. Some survivors continue to see their oncologist, while others transition back to the care of their primary care doctor or another health care professional. This decision depends on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, treatments received, side effects, health insurance rules, and your personal preferences.

If a doctor who was not directly involved in your cancer care will lead your follow-up care, be sure to share your cancer treatment summary and survivorship care plan forms with them and with all future health care providers. Details about your cancer treatment are very valuable to the health care professionals who will care for you throughout your lifetime.

The next section in this guide is Survivorship. It describes how to cope with challenges in everyday life after a cancer diagnosis. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma) - Survivorship

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 10/2023

ON THIS PAGE: You will read about how to cope with challenges in everyday life after a cancer diagnosis. Use the menu to see other pages.

What is survivorship?

The word “survivorship” is complicated because it means different things to different people. Common definitions include:

  • Having no signs of cancer after finishing treatment.

  • Living with, through, and beyond cancer. According to this definition, cancer survivorship begins at diagnosis and continues during treatment and through the rest of a person’s life.

For some, the term “survivorship” itself does not feel right, and they may prefer to use different language to describe and define their experience. Sometimes long-term treatment will be used for months or years to manage or control cancer. Living with cancer indefinitely is not easy, and the health care team can help you manage the challenges that come with it. Everyone has to find their own path to name and navigate the changes and challenges that are the results of their cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Survivors may experience a mixture of feelings, including joy, concern, relief, guilt, and fear. Some people say they appreciate life more after a cancer diagnosis and have gained a greater acceptance of themselves. Others become very anxious about their health and uncertain about coping with everyday life. Feelings of fear and anxiety may still occur as time passes, but these emotions should not be a constant part of your daily life. If they persist, be sure to talk with a member of your health care team.

Survivors may feel some stress when their frequent visits to the health care team end after completing treatment. Often, relationships built with the cancer care team provide a sense of security during treatment, and people miss this source of support. This may be especially true when new worries and challenges surface over time, such as any late effects of treatment, emotional challenges including fear of recurrence, sexual health and fertility concerns, and financial and workplace issues.

Every survivor has individual concerns and challenges. With any challenge, a good first step is being able to recognize your fears and talk about them. Effective coping requires:

  • Understanding the challenge you are facing

  • Thinking through solutions

  • Asking for and allowing the support of others

  • Feeling comfortable with the course of action you choose

Many survivors find it helpful to join an in-person support group or an online community of survivors. This allows you to talk with people who have had similar first-hand experiences. Other options for finding support include talking with a friend or member of your health care team, individual counseling, or asking for assistance at the learning resource center of the place where you received treatment.

A new perspective on your health

For many people, survivorship serves as a strong motivator to make lifestyle changes.

People recovering from Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia are encouraged to follow established guidelines for good health, such as not smoking, limiting alcohol, eating well, exercising regularly, and managing stress. Regular physical activity can help rebuild your strength and energy level. Your health care team can help you create an appropriate exercise plan based upon your needs, physical abilities, and fitness level. Learn more about making healthy lifestyle choices.

It is important to have recommended medical checkups and tests (see Follow-up Care) to take care of your health.

Talk with your health care team to develop a survivorship care plan that is best for your needs.

Changing role of caregivers

Family members and friends may also go through periods of transition. A caregiver plays a very important role in supporting a person diagnosed with cancer, providing physical, emotional, and practical care on a daily or as-needed basis. Many caregivers become focused on providing this support, especially if the treatment period lasts for many months or longer.

However, as treatment is completed, the caregiver's role often changes. Eventually, the need for caregiving related to the cancer diagnosis will become much less or come to an end. Caregivers can learn more about adjusting to life after caregiving.

Looking for More Survivorship Resources?

For more information about cancer survivorship, explore these related items. Please note that these links will take you to other sections of Cancer.Net:

  • ASCO Answers Guide to Cancer Survivorship: Get this 48-page booklet that helps people transition into life after treatment. It includes blank treatment summary and survivorship care plan forms. The free booklet is available as a PDF, so it is easy to print.

  • Survivorship Resources: Cancer.Net offers information and resources to help survivors cope, including specific sections for children, teens and young adults, and people over age 65. There is also a main section on survivorship for people of all ages.

The next section offers Questions to Ask the Health Care Team to help start conversations with your cancer care team. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma) - Questions to Ask the Health Care Team

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 10/2023

ON THIS PAGE: You will find some questions to ask your doctor or other members of the health care team, to help you better understand your diagnosis, treatment plan, and overall care. Use the menu to see other pages.

Talking often with the health care team is important to make informed decisions about your health care. These suggested questions are a starting point to help you learn more about your cancer care and treatment. You are also encouraged to ask additional questions that are important to you. You may want to print this list and bring it to your next appointment. It may also be helpful to ask a family member or friend to come with you to appointments to help take notes.

Questions to ask after getting a diagnosis

  • Can you explain my pathology report, or laboratory test results, to me?

Questions to ask about choosing a treatment and managing side effects

  • What are my treatment options?

  • What types of research are being done for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia in clinical trials? Do clinical trials offer additional treatment options for me?

  • What treatment plan do you recommend? Why?

  • What is the goal of each treatment? Is it to eliminate the cancer, manage my symptoms, or both?

  • What are the possible short-term and long-term side effects of each treatment?

  • Who will be part of my health care team, and what does each member do?

  • Who will be leading my overall treatment and follow-up care?

  • How will this treatment affect my daily life? Will I be able to work, exercise, and perform my usual activities?

  • Could this treatment affect my sex life? If so, how and for how long?

  • Could this treatment affect my ability to become pregnant or have children? If so, should I talk with a fertility specialist before cancer treatment begins?

  • If I am worried about managing the costs of medical care, who can help me?

  • What support services are available to me? To my family?

  • How can I keep myself as healthy as possible during and after treatment?

  • If I have questions or problems, who should I call?

Questions to ask about having therapies using medication

  • What type of treatment is recommended?

  • What is the goal of this treatment?

  • Can this medication control or cure my cancer?

  • How long will it take to give this treatment?

  • Will I receive this treatment at a hospital or clinic? Or will I take it at home?

  • What side effects can I expect during treatment?

  • Who should I contact about any side effects I experience? And how soon?

  • What are the possible long-term or late effects of having this treatment?

  • What can be done to prevent or relieve the side effects?

Questions to ask about planning follow-up care

  • What is the chance that the cancer will come back? Should I watch for specific signs or symptoms?

  • What long-term side effects or late effects are possible based on the treatment I received?

  • What follow-up tests will I need, and how often will those tests be needed?

  • How do I get a treatment summary and survivorship care plan to keep in my personal records?

  • When should I return to my primary care doctor for regular medical care?

  • Who will be leading my follow-up care?

  • What survivorship support services are available to me? To my family?

The next section in this guide is Additional Resources. It offers more resources on this website that may be helpful to you. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma) - Additional Resources

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 10/2023

ON THIS PAGE: You will find some helpful links to other areas of Cancer.Net that provide information about cancer care and treatment. This is the final page of Cancer.Net’s Guide to Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma). Use the menu to go back and see other pages.

Cancer.Net includes many other sections about the medical and emotional aspects of cancer for the person diagnosed and their family members and friends. This website is meant to be a resource for you and your loved ones from the time of diagnosis, through treatment, and beyond.

Here are a few links to help you explore other parts of Cancer.Net:

This is the end of Cancer.Net’s Guide to Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma). Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.