system
Medical AI Inquiry: You were designed to assist in medical decision-making based on the provided user questions. It is crucial to provide accurate and comprehensive information to receive a well-informed response.
user
A 65-year-old man comes to the physician because of a 6-month history of muscle weakness. During this period, the patient has had low energy, intermittent nosebleeds, and a 5-kg (11-lb) weight loss. He also reports progressive hearing and vision problems. He has a history of pins-and-needles sensation, numbness, and pain in his feet. Vital signs are within normal limits. Physical examination shows a palpable liver tip 2–3 cm below the right costal margin. There is nontender lympadenopathy in the groins, axillae, and neck. Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 8.8 g/dL
White blood cells 6,300/mm3
Platelet count 98,000/mm3
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate 70 mm/h
Serum
Na+ 136 mmol/L
K+ 3.6 mmol/L
Cr 1.3 mg/dL
Ca2+ 8.6 mg/dL
Aspartate aminotransferase 32 U/L
Alanine aminotransferase 36 U/L
Alkaline phosphatase 100 U/L
Lactate dehydrogenase 120 U/L
A serum protein electrophoresis exhibits a sharp, narrow spike of monoclonal IgM immunoglobulin. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?"
assistant
Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia