Transient paraproteinemia: an intriguing immunological anomaly
Strobel, S.L.
Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science 33(3): 265-270
2003
ISSN/ISBN: 0091-7370 PMID: 12956440 Document Number: 562925
Serum transient paraproteins are small monoclonal immunoglobulins that are induced by a self-limiting regulatory defect in the control of certain terminally differentiated B-cell clones. Relatively uncommon and ill-defined in the medical literature, such proteins may be regarded as immunologic anomalies. Their clinical significance and potential impact on patient management are poorly understood. To elucidate this phenomenon, we reviewed the serum transient paraproteins that were encountered in a large community hospital during a 12 mo period. Twelve transient paraproteins were identified in a total of 895 serum protein electrophoreses reviewed (1.3% incidence). The relationships of the transient paraproteins to specific diseases were studied.