Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia Clinical Trials 2023

What Are Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia Clinical Trials?

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (WM) is a rare cancer type. This cancer targets the white blood cells. The condition increases the production of abnormal WBCs in the bloodstream crowding the healthy blood cells. A protein is produced by abnormal cells which accumulate in the blood. The condition further impairs circulation and leads to complications.

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (WM) is characterized as Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma type. It is also referred to as Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma. It is a progressive and slow-growing condition. Some symptoms include easy bruising, fatigue, fever, weight loss, numb feet and hands, bleeding of the gums and nose, shortness of breath, and vision change.

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia clinical trials are studies conducted to find effective treatments to improve the quality of lives of the patients and their comfort.  

Why Is Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia Being Studied Through Clinical Trials?

Statistics show that annually approximately 1000 to nearly 1500 individuals are reported to suffer from Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia in the US. The occurrence of Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia is about 3 cases/per million individuals yearly in America. Moreover, the condition is more commonly found in men. It affects white people more than African Americans.

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia clinical trials are being conducted for multiple reasons, such as:

• Find ways to prevent the condition, reduce symptoms, and also side-effects.
• Determine the best drug combinations
• Identify targeted therapies
• How to treat it the best
• How to care for the patients diagnosed with Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia

What Are the Types of Treatments Available for Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia?

There is no specific treatment for Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia. For cancer care, a multidisciplinary team of doctors works cohesively to create a treatment plan for every patient. Treatment options depend on factors like cancer stage, type, patient’s health, and preference. The treatment plan includes procedures like plasma exchange, chemotherapy, therapies with medication, stem cell transplantation, and targeted therapy.

What Are Some Recent Breakthrough Clinical Trials for Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia?

2013: Novel Treatment Options for Waldenström’s Macroglobulinemia- The study focused on multiple WM treatment options like proteasome inhibitors and Immunomodulatory drugs. It concluded that new agents used for treatment offer improved response and lower long-term toxicities. However, more research must be carried out to understand the disease biology for improved outcomes.

2021: Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia with Peripheral Neuropathy- The research was conducted on two patients with Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia and peripheral nerve symptoms. The first patient was administered Rituximab, Dexamethasone, and Cyclophosphamide. The second patient was treated using Bendamustine and Rituximab. The first case completed remission for nine years but experienced recurrence in the tenth year, while the second completed treatment successfully over three years.

Who Are Some Key Opinion Leaders/Researchers/Institutions Conducting Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia Clinical Trial Research?

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

It is a highly specialized cancer care center that exclusively provides Waldenstrom diagnosis, treatment plans, and therapies through ongoing clinical research.

IWMF

International Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia Foundation is a non-profit organization that supports knowledge advancement about WM through quality research and clinical trials.