2Primary versus Secondary Plasma Cell Leukemia
Plasma cell leukemia can be divided into two types:
– Primary plasma cell leukemia: This type accounts for around 60 to 70 percent of reported cases. It starts in the original form instead of spreading to the blood from another form of cancer. Primary plasma cell leukemia has different molecular and genetic markers to secondary form. The average age at diagnosis is around 61.
– Secondary plasma cell leukemia: This form occurs when multiple myeloma transforms and then spreads to the bloodstream. It accounts for around 30 to 40 percent of reported cases. The average age at diagnosis is around 66. Due to modern treatments in multiple myeloma, this form of plasma cell leukemia is becoming more and more prevalent. [3]
