The multiple oral presentations of multiple myeloma.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this case series is to show the varied oral presentations of multiple myeloma, illustrating the importance of carefully surveying the oral cavity for suspicious lesions that could be indicative of palpable disease and/or recurrence. The diagnostic criteria and prognostic features for multiple myeloma were also reviewed.


METHODS
This report focuses on five patients with myeloma manifestations involving the oral cavity, in which the oral presentation of multiple myeloma was an early indication of disease relapse. Although the clinical presentation may be variable, the majority of patients will develop lytic bone lesions and less commonly, extramedullary involvement during the course of their disease.


CONCLUSIONS
The presentation of myeloma can be varied and the oral presentation, although rare, may be the sole manifestation or part of a group of signs of disease progression. Clinical presentations of patients with myelomatous lesions can mimic common dental pathologies, which then, in turn, can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
As members of an interdisciplinary oncology team, it is essential to be familiar with oral manifestations of multiple myeloma and proper diagnostic/biopsy techniques in order to avoid misdiagnosis and treatment delays.
Section of Oral Oncology, Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas-M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA.
Richard C
RC
Cardoso
Peter J
PJ
Gerngross
Theresa M
TM
Hofstede
Donna M
DM
Weber
Mark S
MS
Chambers
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009062:Mouth Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D009101:Multiple Myeloma / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology; D011379:Prognosis