ACUTE PLASMA CELL LEUKEMIA

Abstract

A case report of plasma cell leukemia is presented in which the clinical course was similar to that of the usual acute leukemia. In this instance the plasma cell was involved. Many of the precursors of this cell resembled closely megaloblasts, erythroblasts, and normo-blasts, which strongly suggested that some plasma cells, at least, are derived from the erythroid series, as advocated by Jordan. A brief summary is made of the various types of plasmacytomas and a condensed outline is presented. The importance of sternal marrow aspiration is stressed, particularly as it applies to the diagnosis of multiple myeloma.