Chronic lymphocytic leukemia and multiple myeloma in husband and wife

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and multiple myeloma (MM) are rare, B-lymphocyte malignancies of unknown etiology. CLL appears to have a strong familial component; MM has also been reported in families but to a lesser extent. Clinical reports have suggested associations between each of these disorders and prior history of chronic antigenic stimulation from chronic infections, inflammatory or autoimmune diseases; chronic use of certain drugs; and various occupational exposures thought to be related to certain chemicals. Hypotheses as to possible etiologic agents or exposures are usually suggested by clinical clues from in-depth medical histories. We report four suspect exposures shared by a husband and wife who developed the rare, B-cell tumors, CLL and multiple myeloma.