What is Plasmacytoma of the Brain?
Plasmacytoma is a rare type of blood cancer that develops from the abnormal division and multiplication of plasma cells, particularly B cells. It creates single tumours that can affect bones and soft tissues in the head, neck, kidneys, and urinary bladder as well as other parts of the body such as the lungs.
The risk of development of plasmacytoma brain is higher in people between the ages of 55-60 years. It is more common in males as compared to females.
Disease Causes
There is no well-known cause, however certain hereditary and genetic conditions are considered responsible for the development of plasmacytoma brain.
Signs and Symptoms
Soft tissue or extramedullary plasmacytomas can develop anywhere in the soft tissues of the body, but they most commonly develop in the head and neck region. Symptoms depend on the specific part of the body involved. Common signs and symptoms are listed below in cases where it affects the head, neck, or brain.
- Persistent and/or worsening headache
- Runny nose with mucus continuously running or dripping
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Sore throat
- Bleeding from nose
- Deep or hoarse voice
- Blocked airway with a high-pitched, whistle-like sound coming from the respiratory tract
- Numbness, weakness, and paralysis of different parts of the body due to pressure of the tumour on the bones
- Plasmacytoma of the brain can also cause visual disturbances such as blurred vision or double vision
- Hearing loss or tinnitus can also be the symptoms due to the tumour pressure on the auditory nerves
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis:
- Imaging techniques like X-ray, CT-scan, MRI and PET scan to see the site, size, and extent of the tumour.
- Tumour biopsy (tumour biopsy to remove a small sample of tissue for histopathological examination)
- USG-guided fine needle aspiration cytology
Treatment
Treatment for plasmacytoma usually involves a combination of surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The primary preferred treatment method is chemotherapy.
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