Jaw Mass as Initial Presentation of Multiple Myeloma: a Report of Two Cases

Abstract

Multiple Myeloma (MM) is a monoclonal proliferation of plasma cells in the bone marrow, and secretion of paraprotein into circulation and urine. It  is part of the spectrum of plasma cell dyscrasias. Others included in the spectrum are extramedullary myeloma or plasma cell leukaemia. It may be  complicated by hyperviscosity, renal impairment, anemia and bone disease. Bone disease is the commonest presentation of MM; presents  commonly with usually low back pain. Orofacial presentation is rare. We present a report of 2 cases of MM with uncommon initial presentation as a jaw mass. In  both cases a high index of suspicion was entertained after tissue biopsy was done. Aspiration of the tumor mass showed typical plasmacytosis and we  suggest that this be done just as in cases of Burkitt’s lymphoma.