Comprehensive Guide To The Symptoms Of POEMS Syndrome

Endocrinopathy

Endocrinopathy or abnormalities of the endocrine system and its function may occur in individuals with POEMS syndrome. Gonadal failure is a condition where the ovaries in females and testes in males do not function properly, and around seventy percent of individuals with POEMS syndrome develop it. The results of this include amenorrhea or stoppage of the menstrual cycle, gynecomastia or abnormal enlargement of the breasts, and impotence. Around half of individuals with POEMS syndrome will develop an endocrine disease called diabetes mellitus, which is a disease where the beta cells of the pancreas do not secrete the insulin needed to mediate glucose in the blood. Additionally, many individuals with POEMS syndrome will experience issues with the functioning of the thyroid gland such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Furthermore, POEMS syndrome may cause problems with the functioning of the adrenal glands, which are responsible for the release of aldosterone and cortisol.

Learn more about POEMs syndrome symptoms now.

Monoclonal Plasmaproliferative Disorder

Monoclonal plasmaproliferative disorder, a common occurrence in POEMS syndrome, can be best defined as an overproduction of a single clone of plasma cells. Plasma cells are an imperative element of the immune system and are produced in the bone marrow. Plasma cells secrete antibodies that combat microorganisms, toxins, and other foreign substances when they invade the body. This excessive antibody is referred to as the M-protein. When this one type of plasma cell that grows out of control makes the M-protein that also exceeds others in quantity, the numbers of other types of antibodies decrease. This increases the individual's susceptibility to invasion of bacteria and infection because they have a less diverse antibody population to fight infections and bacteria off. In addition, excessive M-proteins can invade and damage other healthy tissues around the body including vital organs. The kidneys and the bones are both common tissues affected by the excessive M-protein presence in the body.

Get familiar with the next symptom of POEMS syndrome now.