ABSTRACT
This chapter will explore the linkage that exists between the aging process and the development of cancer, and will highlight the monoclonal gammopathies as an example of this connection. It will focus on three areas relative to this discussion: (i) the natural history and epidemiology of monoclonal gammopathies; (ii) the relationships that exist between aging and the development of a monoclonal gammopathy; (iii) some aspects of the pathophysiology of monoclonal gammopathies, with an emphasis on the role of aging.
