The two most common types of myeloma. The G abd tge A refer to the type of protein produced by the myeloma cells. The myeloma protein, which is an immunoglobulin, consists of two heavy chains, (for example of a G type) combined with two light chains, which are either kappa or lambda. Therefore, the two most common subtypes of myeloma have identical heavy chains (i. e. IgG kappa and IgG lambda). The kappa and lambda light chains can be produced alone resulting in either kappa or lambda light chain (Bence Jones) myeloma. The terms heavy and light refer to the size or molecular weight of the porotein, with the heavy chains being larger than the light chains. Since the light chains are smaller, they are more likely to leak out into the urine, resulting in urine Bence Jones protein.
An immunologic test of the serum or urine used to identify proteins in the blood. For myeloma patients, it enables the doctor to identify the M-protein type (IgG, IgA, kappa, or lambda).
A protein produced by plasma cells; an essential part of the body’s immune system. Immunoglobulins attach to foreign substances (antigens) and assist in destroying them. The classes of immunoglobulins are IgA, IgG, IgM, IgD, and IgE.
A process used to identify cells, based on the types of antigens or markers on the surface of the cell. This process is used to diagnose specific types of leukemia and lymphoma by comparing the cancer cells to normal cells of the immune system.
Suppression of the body's immune system and its ability to fight infections or disease. Immunosuppression may be deliberately induced with drugs, as in preparation for bone marrow or other organ transplantation to prevent rejection of the donor tissue. It may also result from certain diseases such as AIDS or lymphoma or from anticancer drugs.
Treatment to stimulate or restore the ability of the immune system to fight infections and other diseases. Also used to lessen certain side effects that may be caused by cancer treatment. Also called biological therapy, biotherapy, or biological response modifier (BRM) therapy.
Treatment designed to be used as a first step toward shrinking the cancer and in evaluating response to drugs and other agents. Induction therapy is followed by additional therapy to eliminate whatever cancer remains.
A process in which a person learns key facts about a clinical trial, including potential risks and benefits, before deciding whether or not to participate in a study. Informed consent continues throughout the trial.
IRB. A group of scientists, doctors, clergy, and consumers at each health care facility that participates in a clinical trial. IRBs are designed to protect study participants. They review and must approve the action plan for every clinical trial. They check to see that the trial is well designed, does not involve undue risks, and includes safeguards for patients.
A type of high-dose chemotherapy often given as the second phase (after induction therapy) of a cancer treatment regimen for leukemia. Also called consolidation therapy.
A biological response modifier (a substance that can improve the body's natural response to infections and other diseases). Interferons interfere with the division of cancer cells and can slow tumor growth. There are several types of interferons, including interferon-alpha, -beta, and -gamma. The body normally produces these substances. They are also made in the laboratory to treat cancer and other diseases.
A naturally produced chemical rleased by the body or a substance used in biological therapy. Interleukins stimulate the growth and activities of certain kinds of white blood cells. Interleukin-2 (Il-2).
A grade of Non-Hodgkin’s denoting usually moderate growth. NHL types that are intermediate grade are large cell follicular, mixed cell diffuse and immunoblastic diffuse. NCI is now classifying lymphomas as Indolent or Aggressive.
A procedure in which radioactive material sealed in needles, seeds, wires, or catheters is placed directly into or near a tumor. Also called brachytherapy, implant radiation, or interstitial radiation therapy.
Describes the fluid-filled space between the thin layers of tissue that cover the brain and spinal cord. Drugs can be injected into the fluid or a sample of the fluid can be removed for testing.
In clinical trials, refers to a drug (including a new drug, dose, combination, or route of administration) or procedure that has undergone basic laboratory testing and received approval from the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be tested in human subjects. A drug or procedure may be approved by the FDA for use in one disease or condition, but be considered investigational in other diseases or conditions. Also called experimental.
“Vitro” is derived from the Latin referring to glass. Thus in vitro means occurring in laboratory apparatus, such as a test tube. When a medication is effective in vitro it means it has been shown in a laboratory to have an action in an artificial or “glass” environment – a test tube, for example. Usually the first stage of testing a new medication is in vitro research.
A substance that binds iron and then eliminates it from the body in the urine and stool.
For over 27 years, the law firm of Baron & Budd, P.C. has fought to safeguard the rights of victims of toxic substances such as benzene. The Work-Related Leukemia and Lymphoma Medical Web site is a public service of Baron & Budd, P.C.
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