Hi Anthony, not sure what the stats are on light chain MM v MM would expect it to be 50/50 chance? as we equally have both heavy and light parts in our system. If your consultant never mentions it then I would suppose you have normal “heavy chain” MM where measurements are gauged on the level of paraprotein in the blood. I have “light chain” MM – in that the “light” chains can break away and thus patients are more susceptible to kidney damage (due to difficulty in filtering in the light chains blocking the kidneys). I am only measured on the light chains as I do not really produce an M spike/paraprotein reading as those with standard MM do – so measuring the light chains is an accurate gauge to the extent of cancer. I did ask once which was the best type to get for survival rates and was told it makes no difference as it all depends how the MM is for you. I think you are diagnosed later with light chain and often when kidneys have been affected due to the lack of paraprotein measurement in the blood – tho I am told some with light chain M do have paraprotein readings also – as with everything in myelomaworld it’s all very contradictory and individual! Glad the V&D is working out OK for you – I had 8 cycles of it and found it ok – think the biggest drop you find is in the first cycle and then it slows down quite a bit. Met a woman once in clinic who had it and got 2 yrs remission and they were trying it again for her – just watch out and report any PN before it gets too bad.
Rebecca
