[Ed T.]

IgA Myeloma, IgG Myeloma

by Ed T. on Wed Apr 06, 2011 3:26 pm

Is IgA myeloma more agressive than IgG myeloma or is there a difference? Thanks, Ed

[Sue]

Re: IgA Myeloma, IgG Myeloma

by Sue on Thu Apr 07, 2011 3:28 pm

I'm pretty sure IgA and IgG are the two most common types of myeloma. I'm not sure if one is more aggressive than the other, but since the majority of myeloma patients are considered low-risk, I'm guessing there's not a huge difference.

[Dr. Edward Libby]

Re: IgA Myeloma, IgG Myeloma

by Dr. Edward Libby on Sun Apr 10, 2011 10:37 am

Hello,
This is an excellent question. In general, the immunophenotype of myeloma (e.g. IgG vs IgA) is no longer considered to be a major factor when determining prognosis.The cytogenetics of the myeloma calls are far more important. Cytogenetics should be performed on the diagnostic bone marrow for all newly diagnosed patients to determine prognosis and assist in treatment decisions. Cytogenetic findings which predict a more aggressive disease include: del 13, del 17, t (4;14), t (11;14), t (14;16) and 1q21amplification].