Plasmacytoma
Plasmacytoma is a form of cancer that starts in plasma cells, which are white blood cells that make antibodies. 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 the bone marrow or in soft tissue. When the tumor forms in the bone marrow, symptoms of a plasmacytoma may include pain and broken bones; if the tumor is in the throat, it may result in symptoms such as difficulty swallowing. In general, treatment options for plasmacytoma may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery.
Plasmacytoma: An Introduction
Plasmacytoma is a type of cancer that starts in plasma cells. A plasma cell is a type of white blood cell that makes antibodies.
Understanding Normal Blood Cells
Most blood cells develop from cells in the bone marrow called stem cells.
Bone marrow is the soft material in the center of most bones. Stem cells mature into different types of blood cells, which include:
- White blood cells, which help fight infection (There are several types of white blood cells.)
- Red blood cells, which carry oxygen to tissues throughout the body
- Platelets, which help form blood clots that control bleeding.
Plasma cells are white blood cells that make antibodies, which are part of the immune system. Antibodies work with other parts of the immune system to help protect the body from germs and other harmful substances. Each type of plasma cell makes a different antibody.
Normal plasma cells help protect the body from germs and other harmful substances.
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
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