Recurrent pleural effusion in myeloma

Wing Hang Woo1, Azlin Ithnin2, Mohd Asyiq Al-Fard Mohd Raffali1

  • 1Department of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Center, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Insights

This study discusses myelomatous pleural effusion (MPE), a rare complication of myeloma. Early recognition and multidisciplinary management are crucial for treating MPE and improving patient quality of life.

Area of Science:

  • Hematology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Plasma cell (PC) disorders encompass myeloma and amyloidosis.
  • Pleural effusion in myeloma is uncommon, potentially caused by direct infiltration or cardiac amyloidosis.
  • Diagnosis involves analyzing pleural fluid and tissue samples.

Observation:

  • A 74-year-old man with immunoglobulin A myeloma presented with recurrent myelomatous pleural effusion (MPE).
  • The MPE was refractory to standard treatments like drainage and pleurodesis, despite partial remission of serum paraprotein.
  • Secondary cardiac amyloidosis was suspected as a contributing factor.

Findings:

  • Myelomatous pleural effusion (MPE) diagnosis relies on cytomorphology, flow cytometry, protein electrophoresis, or biopsy.
  • Treatment focuses on eradicating the underlying myeloma and managing respiratory symptoms.
  • Refractory MPE poses significant challenges, especially in older patients.

Implications:

  • Early identification of extramedullary myeloma infiltration and secondary amyloidosis is critical.
  • Multidisciplinary care is essential for symptom management and enhancing quality of life in MPE patients.
  • Chemotherapy intensification in elderly patients requires careful consideration.

Related Concept Videos

Pleural Effusion II: Symptoms and Management01:28

Pleural Effusion II: Symptoms and Management

Pleural Effusion Overview
A pleural effusion is the abnormal collection of fluid between the parietal and visceral pleura layers of tissue that form the lining of the lungs and chest cavity. It can occur independently or due to surrounding parenchymal diseases, such as infection, malignancy, or inflammatory conditions.
Clinical Manifestations:
255
Pleural Effusion I: Introduction01:25

Pleural Effusion I: Introduction

Pleural effusion is an abnormal fluid accumulation in the pleural cavity, a narrow space between the lungs and the chest wall. It is not a disease per se but rather a symptom or indication of an underlying disease. In normal circumstances, this space contains a small amount of fluid (5 to 15 mL), a lubricant facilitating the non-frictional movement of the pleural surfaces.
There are two main types of pleural effusion: transudative and exudative. They are differentiated using Light's...
1.6K
Pleural Disorders: Types and Brief Description01:30

Pleural Disorders: Types and Brief Description

The pleura is a vital part of the respiratory system. It's a double-layered membrane surrounding the lungs and lining the chest cavity. The two layers of the pleura are:
287
Pneumothorax-II01:27

Pneumothorax-II

Pneumothorax is a medical condition defined by the buildup of air in the pleural space between the lungs and the chest wall. This accumulation of air can lead to partial or complete lung collapse, resulting in a range of clinical manifestations. Understanding the clinical presentation and effective management strategies is crucial for healthcare professionals in providing timely and appropriate care to individuals with pneumothorax.
Clinical Manifestations:
311
Pleura of the Lungs01:13

Pleura of the Lungs

The lungs are nestled in a cavity, shielded by the pleura. The pleura, a form of serous membrane, wraps around each lung. This membrane arrangement consists of two layers: the visceral and parietal pleurae. The visceral pleura lines the surface of the lungIn contrast, the parietal pleura is the outer layer and contacts to the thoracic wall, the mediastinum, and the diaphragm. The hilum is the point of connection between the visceral and parietal layers. The space between the parietal and...
3.0K
Pulmonary Tuberculosis III01:31

Pulmonary Tuberculosis III

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious infection primarily affecting the lung parenchyma but which can also affect other body parts. TB can be classified based on disease development, presentation, and the affected anatomical site.
The first classification is based on the development of the disease, and it includes the following categories:
415