Peripheral neuropathy and multiple myeloma in aging: a case report

A 67-year-old man affected by moderate weight loss, acral paresthesia and plantar burning sensation was admitted to our department. Electromyographic (EMG) and electroneurographic (ENG) studies confirmed a peripheral, asymmetrical, motor-sensorial polyneuropathy (PPN). Hematological data and bone marrow biopsy discovered a non-secerning multiple myeloma (MM). All other probable causes of peripheral neuropathy could be excluded, and the possible relationship between nerve damage and neoplasia was confirmed. Furthermore, all possibilities of association of MM with PPn, namely the osteosclerotic variant, the Crow-Fukase syndrome, and the amyloid one have been evaluated. The only finding of osteolytic bone areas by radiology, the absence of organomegaly, diabetes mellitus, skin alterations, and of amyloid deposition in muscles and nerves, exclude the possible connection of the case to any of the listed possibilities. On the other hand, some clinical aspects differ, in part, to others described in the literature. In conclusion, the association between PPN and MM as the result of multiform clinical variants could be considered.