Hyperviscosity

Hyperviscosity refers to a state in which the blood is thickened as a result of excessive paraprotein accumulation in the blood. It is not considered to be a common complication of myeloma and affects less than 10% of patients. It appears to be most common in patients with IgA myeloma.

Hyperviscosity can lead to impairment of the microcirculation of the central nervous system causing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, vertigo, blurred vision, hearing loss and in more serious cases, seizure and coma. It can also cause circulatory problems both within pulmonary and renal systems.