POEMS syndrome and Castleman′s disease with renal involvement: a case report and review of the literature

A 46-year-old female presented to our hospital with edema of the lower limbs and skin hyperpigmentation. She also complained of chills, low skin temperature, abdominal swelling, poor appetite, and fatigue. Serum protein electrophoresis revealed M protein, and immunofixation assay showed positivity for monoclonal IgA λ. Her VEGF level was elevated. She also had lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, and neuropathy. Left groin lymph node biopsy suggested Castleman′s disease (plasma cell variant). Thus, a diagnosis of Castleman′s disease and POEMS syndrome was confirmed. She was treated with the RCP regimen (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, and dexamethasone), and her symptoms were partially alleviated. We also reviewed the relevant literature to discuss this rare condition. Key words: POEMS syndrome; Castleman′s disease; Renal insufficiency