Peripheral neuropathies associated with immunoglobulin M monoclonal gammopathies and low-grade B-cell lymphomas: diagnostic and therapeutic approach.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Peripheral neuropathies associated with monoclonal gammopathies and low-grade B-cell lymphomas represent a clinically heterogeneous group of disorders encountered by both neurologists and hematologists. This review provides a practical and updated approach to their diagnosis and management, with a particular focus on IgM-associated neuropathies and anti-MAG neuropathy.

Recent findings: IgM-related neuropathies encompass immune-mediated disorders - most commonly driven by antibodies against myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG) - as well as infiltrative mechanisms (neurolymphomatosis, Bing-Neel syndrome) and protein deposition diseases (AL amyloidosis). Anti-MAG neuropathy remains the most common and best-characterized entity. Over the past decade, therapeutic strategies have evolved substantially with the emergence of clone-directed approaches, including anti-CD20-based regimens and covalent Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors (cBTKi). However, high-quality evidence remains limited.

Summary: Establishing a causal relationship between neuropathy and IgM gammopathy is essential and requires a multidisciplinary approach. Treatment should be individualized and primarily reserved for progressive, functionally impairing disease. Despite therapeutic advances, many patients experience persistent disability, underscoring the need for novel strategies and prospective clinical trials using validated neurological endpoints.