Extramedullary plasmacytoma, a report of five cases diagnosed by FNAC

To review cytological findings and diagnostic challenges in the use of fine needle aspiration in the diagnosis of extramedullary plasmacytoma.

Five cases of extramedullary plasmacytoma that were initially diagnosed on fine needle aspiration cytology over a period of two years in Sir Ganga Ram Hospital were reviewed.

The cytological findings were similar in all five cases. The smears were cellular and composed of plasmacytoid cells arranged singly and in clusters, with varying pleomorphism, bi- and multinucleation and mitotic figures. Presence of anaplasia, increased plasmablasts, numerous naked nuclei and unusual location of the tumour were some of the challenges faced during the cytological evaluation.

Extramedullary plasmacytoma may occur either as an initial presentation or as a secondary involvement by multiple myeloma. Fine needle aspiration is a reliable technique for its rapid diagnosis.