The so-called solitary plasmocytoma of bone

Abstract

1.Five cases of ‘solitary’ bone plasmocytoma are described. Of these, four developed multiple lesions after the following intervals: Case 1; 2 years and 2 months; Case 2; 2 years and 7 months; Case 3; 12 years; Case 5: 10 years to the appearance of a second lesion, with others following after a further 14 years.2.The literature is reviewed.3.Neither radiotherapy nor surgery appears to prevent the ultimate development of widespread lesions.4.‘Solitary’ plasmocytoma of bone is a rare clinical variant of multiple myeloma. In no case is it possible to give an accurate prognosis.5.The concept of a distinct entity unrelated to multiple myeloma is untenable.6.The radiological features are described. Five cases of ‘solitary’ bone plasmocytoma are described. Of these, four developed multiple lesions after the following intervals: Case 1; 2 years and 2 months; Case 2; 2 years and 7 months; Case 3; 12 years; Case 5: 10 years to the appearance of a second lesion, with others following after a further 14 years. The literature is reviewed. Neither radiotherapy nor surgery appears to prevent the ultimate development of widespread lesions. ‘Solitary’ plasmocytoma of bone is a rare clinical variant of multiple myeloma. In no case is it possible to give an accurate prognosis. The concept of a distinct entity unrelated to multiple myeloma is untenable. The radiological features are described. One case (Case 4), after 10 years' observation, has so far not developed multiple myeloma.