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Could Azoran Effect M Protein Levels And Lead To Multiple Myeloma?
I was diagnosed with Myesthenia Gravis in Aug 2009 and was put on Cellcept 2 grams/day for about 8 months from Oct 2009 which I continued till June 2010. I developed symptoms of peripheral neuropathy such as burning sensation in my feet and tingling in hand fingers and toes. The neurologist ordered some tests for me such as NCS, Vit B12 level, CBC, KFT, LFT, ESR which were all normal. But SPE (Serum Protein Electrophoresis) showed presence of M spike (M protein levels 0.98 in July 2010 and repeated again in Oct and these were 1.0 ).I have discontinued with Cellcept as there were no MG symptoms. These have now reappeared such as difficulty in chewing, difficult in concentrating with my eyes . My neurologist has put me on steriods Medrol 16 g/day and feels that I should also start on Azoran which is also immunosuppressant drug. My worry is whether this could affect my M protein levels and could lead to multiple myeloma. Could you please advise me what should I do Thanks
Wed, 24 May 2023
Hi,
Azoran (azathioprine) is an immunosuppressive medication that is commonly used to treat autoimmune diseases like Myasthenia Gravis. It works by suppressing the immune system to reduce inflammation and the production of antibodies that attack healthy tissues.
Azathioprine has not been specifically linked to the development of multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer that arises from plasma cells in the bone marrow. However, any medication can cause side effects or interact with other medications, potentially leading to unexpected outcomes.
In regards to your M protein levels, it is important to continue monitoring them regularly and discussing any changes with your doctor. M protein levels can be elevated in conditions other than multiple myeloma, such as monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). The M protein spike detected in your blood may be related to your underlying autoimmune disease or previous medication use, rather than multiple myeloma.
Your doctor may recommend additional testing or monitoring, such as bone marrow biopsy, to help diagnose or rule out multiple myeloma or other conditions. It is important to discuss any concerns or questions you have about your treatment plan with your healthcare provider.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
Azoran (azathioprine) is an immunosuppressive medication that is commonly used to treat autoimmune diseases like Myasthenia Gravis. It works by suppressing the immune system to reduce inflammation and the production of antibodies that attack healthy tissues.
Azathioprine has not been specifically linked to the development of multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer that arises from plasma cells in the bone marrow. However, any medication can cause side effects or interact with other medications, potentially leading to unexpected outcomes.
In regards to your M protein levels, it is important to continue monitoring them regularly and discussing any changes with your doctor. M protein levels can be elevated in conditions other than multiple myeloma, such as monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). The M protein spike detected in your blood may be related to your underlying autoimmune disease or previous medication use, rather than multiple myeloma.
Your doctor may recommend additional testing or monitoring, such as bone marrow biopsy, to help diagnose or rule out multiple myeloma or other conditions. It is important to discuss any concerns or questions you have about your treatment plan with your healthcare provider.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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