Understanding Waldenström’s Macroglobulinemia (WM)
Receiving a diagnosis of WM may seem overwhelming at first, but understanding your condition can help you feel more at ease. It’s important to recognize that you are not alone. Here are some fast facts1:
- Each year, 1,000 to 1,500 people are diagnosed with WM in the United States
- The median age at WM diagnosis is 71 years old
- WM is more common among men
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WM is a rare type of lymphoma, a cancer that begins in cells of the immune system and usually progresses slowly. In WM, abnormal B cells grow out of control and may crowd out healthy B cells in your bone marrow, lymph nodes, or other organs. When this happens, you are more likely to get infections and experience symptoms.
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In WM, abnormal B cells crowd out healthy B cells.1
Lymph Nodes
These glands contain immune cells that fight infections, found in the base of your neck, groin, armpits, and other parts of the body.3
Bone Marrow
This is the soft inner part of bones where most blood cells are made.2
Spleen
This organ stores and filters
blood cells.2
Immunoglobin M (IgM) is a type of protein that helps the body fight infection. In WM, large amounts of abnormal IgM are produced. A high IgM level is a hallmark of WM and can cause many WM symptoms.
A change in your blood1
In WM, a slow buildup of abnormal B cells can occur over time. Many people don't experience symptoms for years. A routine blood test can detect these changes, which may include:
High levels of abnormal IgM
Can lead to thickening of the blood.
Lower red blood cell counts (anemia)
Can cause tiredness.
Lower platelet counts (thrombocytopenia)
Can cause an increased tendency to bleed.
Lower counts of certain white blood cells (neutropenia)
Can make it easier to get infections.
Enlarged lymph nodes
Bleeding
Fever
Tiredness
Headaches
Enlarged spleen & liver
Night sweats
Infections
Weight loss
Peripheral neuropathy (numbness or a painful "pins and needles" sensation in the feet, legs, and hands)
No two patients are alike, so be sure to tell your doctor how you are feeling and if you are experiencing any new symptoms. If you are feeling mentally or physically tired, for example, it’s important to let your healthcare team know.
Regularly tracking your test results and symptoms gives you and your doctor a picture of how you’re doing over time, so you can spot any patterns and address anything that needs attention.
Track any way you want. Make a list on your phone or keep a journal. Record a video diary. It’s all about what’s convenient and easy for you.
Being diagnosed with WM may feel overwhelming and could bring up a lot of emotions. It’s important to take care of yourself and reach out for support when you need it.
- Talk to your family and friends about how you feel
- Talk to a therapist or counselor if you feel sad or depressed
- Consider joining a support community, either in person or online
IMBRUVICA® By Your Side patient support program is not intended to provide medical advice, replace prescribed treatment plans, or provide treatment or case management services. Patients are advised to talk to their healthcare provider and treatment team about any medical decisions and concerns they may have. By Your Side Registered Nurses are provided by Johnson & Johnson and its affiliates and Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company, and do not work under the direction of your healthcare professional (HCP) or give medical advice. They are trained to direct patients to their HCP for treatment-related advice, including further referrals.
References: 1. Blood Cancer United. Waldenström Macroglobulinemia. Accessed August 6, 2025. https://llsorg.widen.net/view/pdf/aator1eh0b/en-fs20-waldenstrom.pdf 2. American Cancer Society. About non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Revised February 15, 2024. Accessed August 6, 2025. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/non-hodgkin-lymphoma/about/what-is-non-hodgkin-lymphoma.html 3. American Cancer Society. Lymph Nodes and Cancer. Revised August 25, 2023. Accessed August 5, 2025. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-basics/lymph-nodes-and-cancer.html 4. Vernooij R, Willson M, Gagliardi AR. Characterizing patient-oriented tools that could be packaged with guidelines to promote self-management and guideline adoption: a meta-review. Implement Sci. 2016;11(52):1-13. doi: 10.1186/s13012-016-0419-1 5. International Waldenstrom’s Macroglobulinemia Foundation. Emotional Wellness. Accessed August 6, 2025. https://iwmf.com/emotional-wellness-in-wm/