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Plasmacytosis

Last edited: 4/23/2026

Overview

Plasmacytosis refers to an increased number of plasma cells in bone marrow, often seen in reactive conditions but can also indicate underlying neoplastic processes like multiple myeloma. Distinguishing between reactive and neoplastic plasmacytosis is crucial for appropriate management 1.

Diagnosis

  • Histological Evaluation: Plasmacytosis typically ranges from 5% to 25% with an interstitial pattern of plasma cell distribution 1.
  • Immunohistochemical Markers:
  • - Polyclonal plasma cells are CD138 positive and lack CD56/NCAM and cyclin D1 expression 1. - Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and reactive plasmacytoses show similar immunohistochemical profiles without CD56/NCAM or cyclin D1 positivity 1. - CD56/NCAM expression is useful in differentiating polyclonal from neoplastic plasma cells, with neoplastic plasma cells often showing strong CD56/NCAM immunoreactivity 1.

    Management

  • Reactive Plasmacytosis: No specific pharmacological treatment is typically required; management focuses on addressing underlying causes 1.
  • Monitoring: Regular follow-up to monitor for progression to more serious conditions like multiple myeloma 1.
  • Special Populations

  • No Specific Data Provided: The abstracts do not provide specific guidance on plasmacytosis in pregnancy, pediatrics, elderly patients, or those with comorbidities 1.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Utilize CD56/NCAM immunohistochemistry to differentiate reactive from neoplastic plasmacytosis (Evidence: Moderate) 1.
  • Regular monitoring is essential in patients with reactive plasmacytosis to detect potential progression to neoplastic disorders (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1.
  • No specific pharmacological treatment is indicated for reactive plasmacytosis; focus on managing underlying causes (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1.
  • References

    1 Ioannou MG, Stathakis E, Lazaris AC, Papathomas T, Tsiambas E, Koukoulis GK. Immunohistochemical evaluation of 95 bone marrow reactive plasmacytoses. Pathology oncology research : POR 2009. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Immunohistochemical evaluation of 95 bone marrow reactive plasmacytoses.Ioannou MG, Stathakis E, Lazaris AC, Papathomas T, Tsiambas E, Koukoulis GK Pathology oncology research : POR (2009)

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