Plasma cell dyscrasia with polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M protein, and skin changes: the POEMS syndrome. Report on two cases and a review of the literature

Medicine (Baltimore). 1980 Jul;59(4):311-22. doi: 10.1097/00005792-198007000-00006.

Abstract

Two patients with plasma cell dyscrasias, manifested by osteosclerotic bone lesions and small amounts of M protein, and a complicating multi-system disorder are described. Their features of severe sensory-motor polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrine dysfunction, anasarca, elevated CSF protein, and skin hyperpigmentation are similar to a clinical syndrome reported primarily in Japanese men. Two previously unrecognized findings--hyperprolactinemia and an unusual radiographic abnormality of fluffy, spiculated bony proliferation--may facilitate recognition of the syndrome. The relationship of these various manifestations to the plasma cell dyscrasia is unknown, but a number of possibilities are discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Endocrine System Diseases / complications*
  • Female
  • Hepatomegaly / complications
  • Humans
  • Lymphatic Diseases / complications
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Myeloma Proteins*
  • Osteosclerosis / complications
  • Paraproteinemias / complications*
  • Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / complications*
  • Skin Diseases / complications*
  • Splenomegaly / complications
  • Syndrome
  • Terminology as Topic*

Substances

  • Myeloma Proteins