title: MGUS and smoldering multiple myeloma: update on pathogenesis, natural history, and management.
abstract: Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) are asymptomatic, pre-malignant disorders characterized by monoclonal plasma cell proliferation in the bone marrow and absence of end-organ damage. Recent advances in the pathogenesis, natural history, and prognosis of MGUS and SMM are reviewed. A new risk stratification system to determine the prognosis of MGUS using the size and type of M protein, and the serum free light chain assay is discussed.
authors.affiliation: Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Division of Hematology, 200 First Avenue St., SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. rajks@mayo.edu
authors.forename: S Vincent
authors.initials: SV
authors.lastname: Rajkumar
mesh_terms: D002883:Chromosomes, Human, Pair 14; D018450:Disease Progression; D006023:Glycoproteins / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007143:Immunoglobulin Heavy Chains / Q000235:genetics; D009101:Multiple Myeloma / Q000235:genetics / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy; D009194:Myeloma Proteins / Q000378:metabolism; D010265:Paraproteinemias / Q000235:genetics / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy; D011230:Precancerous Conditions / Q000235:genetics / Q000473:pathology; D011379:Prognosis; D051437:Renal Insufficiency / Q000209:etiology; D012307:Risk Factors; D014178:Translocation, Genetic
chemical_list: D006023:Glycoproteins; D007143:Immunoglobulin Heavy Chains; D009194:Myeloma Proteins; C085016:multiple myeloma M-proteins; C023587:protein M (glycoprotein)