Pneumococcal disease may signal underlying blood cancer

Researchers from the University of Gothenburg have found that invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) may serve as an early indicator of underlying immune pathologies or hidden blood cancers. Because the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria penetrate the host's defenses to reach sterile environments like the blood or cerebrospinal fluid, the infection can signal a compromised immune system.

Patients with multiple myeloma, in particular, face a heightened risk of developing IPD. A study published in 'Scientific Reports' involving 156 individuals suggests that clinicians should consider routine testing for M protein and antibody levels in adults diagnosed with IPD. Dr. Tor Härnqvist, an infectious disease specialist and lead author, noted that failing to perform these tests could result in missing undiagnosed cases of blood cancer or immunodeficiency, thereby delaying essential treatment.