In vivo confocal microscopy of verticillata-like paraproteinemic keratopathy in a patient with monoclonal gammopathy of uncertain significance evolving into smoldering multiple myeloma

Abstract

Purpose: To highlight the utility of in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) in the microstructural characterization of corneal deposits resembling vortex keratopathy in a case of secondary deposition keratopathy due to an evolving monoclonal gammopathy. Observations: A 56-year-old Caucasian woman previously diagnosed with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), exhibited bilateral diffuse sub-epithelial and anterior stromal opacities distributed in a whorl-shaped pattern. IVCM examination permitted analysis of the microstructural features and distribution of the opacities in different corneal layers. Deposits resembling those reported in multiple myeloma rather than MGUS were detected, and the patient's hematologist was subsequently advised to re-evaluate the earlier diagnosis. Two months later, a bone marrow biopsy led to a diagnosis of plasma cell myeloma. Conclusions and importance: It is suggested that cornea verticillata-like paraproteinemic keratopathy (PPK) in MGUS might be predictive of disease evolution to plasma cell myeloma. Characteristic deposits and morphological features revealed by IVCM may be helpful for non-invasive assessment or screening in patients with hematological disorders. Keywords: Confocal microscopy, Vortex keratopathy, Paraproteinemic keratopathy, Smouldering multiple myeloma