[Extramedullary plasmacytoma of the head and neck. Report of 3 clinical cases]

Plasmocytomas are neoplasic disorders arising from plasma cells that include Multiple Myeloma (MM) Solitary Plasmocytoma of the bone and Extramedullary Plasmacytoma (EMP). EMP are solitary tumours consisting of plasma cell proliferation that occurs in locations other than bone. A variable percentage may be associated at a later date with the development of MM. EMP represent up to 4% of nonepithelial tumours of the upper respiratory tract. They generally occur in the submucosal tissue of the upper airways (80% of cases), with a predilection for nasopharynx, nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses and tonsils. We report 3 cases of Extramedullary Plasmocytoma located one in the upper respiratory tract. All the patients underwent surgical resection or biopsy of the lesion that allowed the histological study, which showed a plasma cell proliferation. Serum and bone marrow studies conclude the diagnosis of Extramedullary Plasmocytoma. The treatment was radiotherapy, with or without previously surgery. Three patients are currently under close follow-up and no evidence of recurrence has been found. We review the clinic, diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic aspects of this kind of tumours.