Plasma-Cell Myeloma of the Right Ilium Roentgenologically Mistaken for Giant-Cell Tumor

Abstract

This case is reported because of its unusual diagnostic features. The patient, a woman aged 49 years, was referred to the Orthopedic Service of the Wisconsin General Hospital on May 16, 1935, because of pain in the right hip. She had slipped and fallen on the hip in September, 1934, but was able to get up and walk with moderate pain. Hot pads were used which gave some relief. Two months elapsed without much change in her condition. She consulted first a chiropractor who treated her, and then saw an osteopath in March, 1935, who “set” the hip. No cast was applied. Walking remained more or less impaired and painful. Since no improvement in her condition occurred she finally consulted a physician who referred her to the Wisconsin General Hospital. Her general physical examination, laboratory findings, and gynecological examination were negative (no Bence-jones in urine). She was unable to walk or stand without the aid of crutches. There was loss of normal contour along the right iliac crest because of a tumo...