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Multiple Myeloma Presenting as Chronic Diarrhea.
Arouj Bajwa1, Judy Trieu2, Kamran Mirza3
1Department of Internal Medicine, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL.
ACG Case Reports Journal
|November 25, 2021
Summary
Diagnosing multiple myeloma can be challenging due to rare gastrointestinal involvement. This case highlights the importance of jejunal biopsies for diagnosing plasma cell dyscrasias presenting as chronic diarrhea.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Hematology
- Oncology
Background:
- Extramedullary involvement of the gastrointestinal tract in plasma cell dyscrasias is uncommon.
- Plasma cell dyscrasias present with diverse clinical manifestations and diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A 66-year-old man presented with chronic diarrhea, a rare initial symptom of multiple myeloma.
- Extensive jejunal biopsies were crucial for the presumptive diagnosis.
Findings:
- The case demonstrates that multiple myeloma can manifest with gastrointestinal symptoms, necessitating thorough investigation.
- A presumptive diagnosis was made, leading to treatment initiation even without a definitive pathological confirmation initially.
Implications:
- This case underscores the need for adequate small bowel tissue sampling in patients with unexplained chronic diarrhea.
- A multidisciplinary approach is essential for the accurate diagnosis and management of plasma cell dyscrasias.
- Early recognition of unusual presentations can improve patient outcomes in plasma cell dyscrasias.
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