Plasma cell myeloma complicated with hyperviscosity syndrome in a patient with dementia of unknown origin

Abstract

A case of 79-year-old patient with dementia of unknown origin masking the symptoms of hyperviscosity syndrome (HVS), which developed in the course of plasma cell myeloma (PCM), has been reported. The patient responded well to the implemented treatment — plasmapheresis and chemotherapy regimen based on bortezomib, reaching complete response. In the HVS, which occurs in 10–30% of patients with Waldenström macroglobulinemia and in approximately 10% with PCM, a significant dysfunction of microcirculatory flow may lead to life-threatening organ damage.