Bulbar Palsy as the Initial Manifestation of Multiple Myeloma: A Case Report

Multiple Myeloma (MM) is a neoplastic disorder derived from the malignant proliferation of monoclonal plasma cells. It is characterized by the overproduction of immunoglobulins (Ig). We report a rare case in which bulbar palsy was the initial manifestation of IgG-MM. A 66-year-old woman initially presented with progressive dysphagia and dysarthria for half a year. Physical examination demonstrated a deviation of the uvula, difficulty in protruding tongue, and bilateral tongue atrophy. Laboratory assessments revealed anemia and prominent monoclonal elevation of IgG levels both in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The diagnosis of IgG-MM was confirmed by the identification of plasmacytosis in bone marrow aspiration and biopsy and elevation of γ-M protein in serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP). Therefore, the patient began to receive the chemotherapy with PAD (bortezomib-doxorubicin-dexamethasone) regimen. Her condition had been under control. MM as a hematological malignancy can affect cranial nerves and present as chronic progressive bulbar palsy.