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Multiple myeloma presenting as hypercalcemic pancreatitis during pregnancy
Jennifer McIntosh1, Jacob Lauer, Ravindu Gunatilake
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|July 9, 2014
Summary
Multiple myeloma is rare in pregnancy. Unexplained hypercalcemia in pregnant patients may indicate underlying malignancy, necessitating thorough differential diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Hematology
- Oncology
Background:
- Multiple myeloma is a rare plasma cell malignancy, typically affecting older adults.
- Pregnancy is an unusual demographic for multiple myeloma diagnosis.
Observation:
- A 22-year-old pregnant woman presented with severe symptoms including hypertension, anemia, thrombocytopenia, acute renal insufficiency, and hypercalcemia.
- Initial diagnoses considered preeclampsia and pancreatitis, but the patient's condition declined.
Findings:
- The patient underwent delivery due to clinical deterioration.
- Postpartum diagnosis confirmed multiple myeloma as the cause of her complex medical issues.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering multiple myeloma in pregnant patients presenting with unexplained hypercalcemia and severe systemic symptoms.
- Early recognition and diagnosis of malignancy in pregnancy are crucial for appropriate management and improved outcomes.
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