Plasmacytoma refers to a malignant plasma cell tumor growing within soft tissue or within the axial skeleton
A plasmacytoma is a type of tumor that arises from plasma cells, which are a form of white blood cell responsible for producing antibodies. These tumors can occur in bone (solitary plasmacytoma of bone) or in soft tissue (extramedullary plasmacytoma). While plasmacytomas are considered a localized form of multiple myeloma, they can potentially progress to more widespread disease if not treated. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies, biopsy, and evaluation of bone marrow involvement.
Soft tissue solitary plasmacytoma is a localized tumor composed of abnormal plasma cells, typically occurring in soft tissues outside the bone. It is considered a form of plasma cell dyscrasia and can present as a mass in various locations, such as the muscles, subcutaneous tissue, or organs. While it is generally less common than multiple myeloma, solitary plasmacytoma can progress to systemic disease if not treated. Diagnosis often involves imaging studies and a biopsy, and treatment typically includes radiation therapy and, in some cases, chemotherapy.
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DefinitionMultiple myeloma is cancer of the plasma cells in bone marrow.Alternative NamesPlasma cell dyscrasia; Plasma cell myeloma; Malignant plasmacytoma; Plasmacytoma of bone; Myeloma - multipleCauses, incidence, and risk factorsPlasma cells help the body's immune system fight disease by producing proteins called antibodies. In multiple myeloma, plasma cells grow out of control in the bone marrow and form tumors in the areas of solid bone.The growth of these bone tumors makes it harder for the bone marrow to make red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This causes anemia, which makes a person more likely to get infections and have abnormal bleeding.As the cancer cells grow in the bone marrow, they can cause pain and destruction of the bones. If the bones in the spine are affected, it can put pressure on the nerves, resulting in numbness or paralysis.Multiple myeloma mainly affects older adults. A history of radiation therapy raises your risk for this type of cancer.SymptomsBleeding problemsBone or back pain, most often in the ribs or backFevers without any other causeIncreased susceptibility to infectionSymptoms of anemia (such as tiredness, shortness of breath, and fatigue)Unexplained fracturesWeakness of the arms or legsSigns and testsBlood tests can help diagnose this disease. They may include:Blood chemistrymay show increased levels of calcium, total protein, and abnormal kidney functionComplete blood count (CBC) reveals low numbers of red and white blood cells and plateletsSerum beta 2 microglobulin levelSerum immunofixation electrophoresisUrine immunofixation electrophoresisSerum protein electrophoresis (SPEP)Urine protein electrophoresis (UPEP) or Bence-Jones protein analysisQuantitative immunoglobulins (nephelometry)Serum free light chain measurementsBone x-rays may show fractures or hollowed out areas of bone. If your doctor suspects this type of cancer, a bone marrow biopsy will be performed.Bone density testing may show bone loss.TreatmentThe goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms, avoid complications, and prolong life.People who have mild disease or where the diagnosis is not certain are usually carefully watched without treatment. Some people have a slow-developing form of multiple myeloma that takes years to cause symptoms.Medications for the treatment of multiple myeloma include:Dexamethasone, melphalan, thalidomide, lenalidomide (Revlimid), and bortezomib (Velcade) can be used alone or together.Drugs called bisphosphonates (pamidronate) are used to reduce bone pain and prevent fractures.Radiation therapy may be performed to relieve bone pain or treat a bone tumor.Two types of bone marrow transplantation may be tried:Autologous bone marrow or stem cell transplantation makes use of one's own stem cells. In younger patients, it has been shown to increase survival.Allogeneic transplant makes use of someone else's stem cells. This treatment carries serious risks.People with multiple myeloma should drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydrationand help maintain proper kidney function. They should also be cautious when having x-ray tests that use contrast dye.Support GroupsThe stress of illness may be eased by joining a support group whose members share common experiences and problems. See: Cancer - support groupExpectations (prognosis)Survival of people with multiple myeloma depends on the patient's age and the stage of disease. Some cases are very aggressive, while others take years to get worse.Chemotherapy and transplants rarely lead to a permanent cure.ComplicationsKidney failureis a frequent complication. Other complications may include:Bone fracturesHigh levels of calcium in the blood, which can be very dangerousIncreased chances for infection (especially pneumonia)Paralysis from tumor or spinal cord compressionCalling your health care providerCall your doctor if you have multiple myeloma and infection develops, or numbness, loss of movement, or loss of sensation develops.ReferencesNational Comprehensive Cancer Network Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology: Multiple Myeloma. National Comprehensive Cancer Network; 2010. Version 1.2010.Abeloff MD, Armitage JO, Niederhuber JE, Kastan MB, McKenna WG, eds. Abeloff's Clinical Oncology. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone; 2008:chap 110.