M protein is also known as monoclonal protein. It's an antibody that's found in unusually large amounts in the blood or urine of people with certain plasma cell disorders.
Here's a breakdown:
- Definition: M protein, short for monoclonal protein, is an abnormal immunoglobulin (antibody).
- Source: These proteins are produced by an overgrowth of a single clone of plasma cells, which are a type of white blood cell.
- Clinical Significance: The presence of M protein often indicates a plasma cell disorder like multiple myeloma.
- Diagnostic Use: Detection of M protein is key in diagnosing conditions involving plasma cell abnormalities.
Key Characteristics of M Protein:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Abnormal antibody (immunoglobulin) |
| Production | Overproduced by a single clone of plasma cells |
| Clinical Link | Associated with plasma cell disorders like multiple myeloma and other tumors |
| Location | Found in blood and/or urine |
| Alternative Name | Monoclonal protein |
This protein is a significant biomarker in the diagnosis and monitoring of multiple myeloma and other plasma cell dyscrasias. Its presence, detected through blood or urine tests, is a key indicator that prompts further investigation.
