Multiple myeloma and plasma cell dyscrasia are related but distinct conditions:

- Multiple Myeloma
- Definition: A type of cancer where plasma cells grow uncontrollably in the bone marrow.
- Characteristics: Cancerous plasma cells develop diffusely throughout the bone marrow, causing decreased blood cell counts, Show Full Answer

Multiple myeloma and plasma cell dyscrasia are related but distinct conditions:

- Multiple Myeloma:
- Definition: A type of cancer where plasma cells grow uncontrollably in the bone marrow.
- Characteristics: Cancerous plasma cells develop diffusely throughout the bone marrow, causing decreased blood cell counts, kidney dysfunction, and other organ issues.
- Proteins: Forms an abnormal protein called M spike, monoclonal protein, or M protein.
- Impact: Prevents normal blood cell growth in the bone marrow.

- Plasma Cell Dyscrasia:
- Definition: A broader category of disorders involving abnormal plasma cells.
- Types: Includes conditions like amyloidosis, monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance (MGUS), plasmacytoma, and multiple myeloma.
- Characteristics: Abnormal plasma cells can form masses (plasmacytoma) or spread diffusely (multiple myeloma).

In summary, multiple myeloma is a specific type of plasma cell dyscrasia characterized by widespread cancerous plasma cells in the bone marrow, while plasma cell dyscrasia encompasses a range of disorders involving abnormal plasma cells.

 This AI-generated response comes from MyMyelomaTeam and other selected sources. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Multiple Myeloma (Plasma Cell Myeloma) – An Overview | MyMyelomaTeam

Plasmacytoma: Is It Different From Myeloma? | MyMyelomaTeam