Multiple myeloma (MM) is a clonal proliferation of antibody-producing plasma cells that can precipitate renal injury through multiple mechanisms. Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) is an inflammatory condition that can result in renal failure through mononuclear cell infiltration and consequent destruction of glomeruli. Several case reports have identified clinical situations where differentiating these entities has been challenging. Renal biopsy is an invaluable tool in differentiating between MM and AAV when clinical uncertainty exists. We report the case of an 85-year-old man who presented with a rapid decline in renal function and serologies positive for both MM and AAV. Renal biopsy findings confirmed the diagnosis of myeloma kidney and excluded vasculitis. This case highlights an unusual clinical scenario in which both proteinase-3 (PR-3) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) antibodies are positive. While these antibodies are both individually associated with ANCA vasculitis, they are seldom simultaneously positive. Our case would suggest that positive PR-3 and MPO antibodies should raise concern for an alternative diagnosis. Indeed, ANCA, PR-3, and MPO antibodies can all be positive in patients with monoclonal gammopathy in the absence of vasculitis. Our case underscores the value of renal biopsy in the setting of MM.
Keywords: AAV and MM; PR3 and MPO; PR3 and MPO in multiple myeloma; multiple myeloma; multiple myeloma and ANCA vasculitis.