Pathology · single question
In a patient with multiple myeloma, which cell type would be found in EXCESS in the bone marrow?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Plasma cells
Multiple myeloma = malignant proliferation of plasma cells in the bone marrow producing monoclonal immunoglobulins.
- A. Eosinophils are elevated in allergic reactions and parasitic infections — not the hallmark of multiple myeloma.
- B. Neutrophils are the most common leukocytes, elevated in bacterial infections — not characteristic of multiple myeloma.
- C. CORRECT. Multiple myeloma = malignant plasma cell proliferation (>10% on bone marrow biopsy is diagnostic). These monoclonal plasma cells produce M-protein (paraprotein). Classic dental finding: 'punched-out' radiolucent lesions of the skull and jaws.
- D. Lymphocytes include T and B cells. While myeloma originates from B-cell lineage, the direct malignant cell is the PLASMA cell.