I would encourage more discussions around what exactly the doctors are looking at that pushed them to make the “smoldering “ diagnosis.

The reason I say this is because I too was moved to that and ended up going to the Mayo for a second opinion. The term “smoldering” actually came from the Mayo.

After reviewing my slides from two different marrow biopsies, new labs, urinalysis etc. Dr. Dingle walked me through what all of that revealed explained many oncologists and hematologist only look at one factor when diagnosing SM, and that is simply if the effected marrow is at or over 10%. There are several other factors that should be considered and he stated there is currently much debate about the term Smoldering and he wished they not use it.

After he walked through me not having 4 of the 5 risk factors he said I do not have “smoldering” I have MGUS with a 1% chance of progressing a year. Now, who knows if that will remain true and that doesn’t mean that is what everyone will hear but I’m just saying a second opinion is worth it to me, good or bad. At least it’s more info.

Just my two cents.