Welcome
Waldenström's macroglobulinemia (WM) is a multifaceted disease with distinct characteristics defining its unique features as well as delineating it from other lymphoma subtypes. Defining feature of WM are the invariably infiltration of the bone marrow by lymphoplasmacytic cells as well as the presence of monoclonal IgM. This abnormal protein can lead to complications such as hyperviscosity or neuropathy adding complexity to the disease's clinical manifestations.
Its heterogeneity makes it a not one-size-fits-all disease. Patients can present with varying clinical features, disease aggressiveness, and responses to treatment. This heterogeneity requires personalized treatment approaches tailored to each patient's unique characteristics.
While Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia presents unique challenges due to its distinct characteristics, there has been significant progress in understanding its biology and in developing tools for prognosis and treatment. The availability of targeted therapies and a more nuanced understanding of the disease are helping clinicians better manage WM patients and improve their outcomes. Ongoing research and collaboration within the medical community will surely continue to advance our knowledge and treatment options for this rare lymphoma.
The formation of the European Consortium for Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia (ECWM) represents a coordinated effort to combine the expertise of clinicians, pathologists, and researchers across Europe. By combining the strengths of experts from around the globe, the consortium is well-positioned to advance research, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment strategies for WM, ultimately benefiting patients and improving their quality of life.
Our Mission
The ECWM is an independent academic consortium dedicated to
translational and clinical research in Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia.
Its mission is to improve understanding of the biology of WM and to develop therapies enabling patients to live a life without compromise, with the final goal to achieve cure.