I was diagnosed with MGUS in 2011, after a blood test showed the M protein was high, so my oncologist did a bone marrow biopsy. He said I had simmering multiple myeloma, meaning it was just there in the bone marrow, but not moving anywhere else in my body. I've had blood tests every 3 months since. A year later, another bone marrow biopsy showed I also had leukemia, but as with multiple myeloma, was simmering. A year later showed the same. So since, the M protein factor hasn't increased so my doctor hasn't done another biopsy. Because I have psioriatic arthritis and take Humira for it, I require regular blood tests. My rheumatologist and dermatologist want them to ensure the Humira isn't affecting my body. I'm fortunate as the arthritis and psoriasis are in remission. Had I not been required to have these blood tests, perhaps someday, the MGUS would have begin spreading and I'd then require chemotherapy or other treatments. In 2010, my wife, after having an artery surgery, due to her complaining about her feet hurt because of bunions, turned out to be circulation problems. During the surgery, an aortic aneurysm was found in her stomach. Had she not had the surgery, perhaps the aneurysm would have not been found, and had it burst, she would have probably died instantly. On a followup MRI, cancer was found. As she was a forever smoker, it was stage 4 lung cancer so her prognosis was 3 years with chemotherapy and radiation as needed. The same oncologist saw both of us, so we were very confident in his diagnosis and treatments. Unfortunately, my wife didn't quite make 3 years. Had she quit smoking as many doctors advised, and went to doctors more often for regular checkups, she might still be alive today. My point in this long article is to point out the difference in folks getting regular visits with primary care physicians, and blood tests, or whatever. I realize that someday the MGUS might spread, and once it does, I'll receive treatment to extend my life and relieve pain, but there is no cure. If I'm fortunate to live as long as my father, he will be 100 in December, more medications and treatments that can eradicate MGUS might be found. In the meantime, I will continue whatever regime my doctors prescribe. I suggest to anyone reading this, they take it to heart and do the same. - Lou G
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