Gelatinous transformation of bone marrow.

We present herein a patient with multiple medical illnesses, marked weight loss, and chronic anemia. Cytologic studies of his bone marrow revealed hypocellularity and gelatinous transformation (GTBM). The latter is a disorder of the hematopoietic system commonly occurring in chronically ill patients and is associated with various hematologic abnormalities. The etiology of GTBM is uncertain. Patients with this disorder may have associated medical problems but malnutrition seems to play a role. Review of the literature implies a significant associated morbidity and mortality, and a possible reversal of gelatinous changes with intense nutritional support. An otherwise dismal prognosis may be avoided by prompt diagnosis of this disorder and intensive nutritional support.