Plasma cell tumors

Multiple myeloma and solitary plasmacytoma are common reticuloendothelial diseases. They involve primarily the bone marrow but have occasional extramedullary components. Numerous complications have been reported with these diseases. Despite modern modes of therapy, the prognosis remains grim. Myeloma and plasmacytoma are part of the continuum of B-Cell lymphoproliferative disorders. Patients are generally between 50 and 70 years old and usually present because of pain. The diagnosis is established by laboratory methods, routine skeletal survey findings, and bone marrow or lesion biopsy. Treatment is primarily medical, with radiation therapy and surgery being used for local control of specific lesions as well as for the treatment of complications or associated lesions. Although the prognosis remains poor, the ability to treat the painful and disabling components of the disease has improved. The surgeon, although unable to cure, can aid the myeloma patient by providing the opportunity for a more productive, pain-free survival.