Understanding Myeloma Cells and Plasmacytoma
Plasmacytoma, like other cancers, begins in cells. Normally, cells grow and divide to form new cells as the body needs them. When cells grow old, they die, and new cells take their place. In cancer, this orderly process goes wrong -- new cells form when the body does not need them, and old cells do not die when they should. These extra cells can form a mass of tissue called a growth or tumor.
In this type of cancer, the abnormal plasma cells (myeloma cells) collect in one location and form a single tumor, called a plasmacytoma. A plasmacytoma may form in bone marrow or in the extramedullary (soft tissues outside of the bone marrow). Plasmacytoma of the bone often becomes multiple myeloma, meaning that it affects more than one bone. Extramedullary plasmacytomas commonly form in tissues of the throat and sinuses; these usually can be cured.
(Click Multiple Myeloma for more information about this type of plasma cell cancer that may affect many bones.)
Symptoms of Plasmacytoma
Plasmacytoma symptoms will depend on whether the tumor is in the bone, the soft tissue, or another part of the body. When the tumor is in the bone, the plasmacytoma may cause pain or broken bones. When the tumor is in the soft tissue, the plasmacytoma may press on nearby areas, causing pain or other problems. A plasmacytoma that is in the throat can make it difficult to swallow. These possible symptoms of plasmacytoma are not sure signs of the cancer. Other less serious health problems can also cause these symptoms. People with possible symptoms of plasmacytoma should see a doctor as soon as possible; only a doctor can diagnose and treat the problem.
If a person has possible plasmacytoma symptoms, the doctor will usually perform a physical exam and ask about the patient's personal and family medical history. In order to make a plasmacytoma diagnosis, the doctor will also typically recommend additional tests and procedures that examine the bone.
Exams and tests that are used to make a plasmacytoma diagnosis may include:
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
- X-rays
- Biopsy.
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