Onkológia 2/2013

Prognostic indicators and significance of response in multiple myeloma

The outcome for patients with multiple myeloma (MM) is highly variable. Although the median overall survival time is 3-4 years, the range is from less than 6 months to greater than 10 years. This variability derives from heterogenity of myeloma cell biology and multiple host factors. Knowledge of tumor and host factors associated with prognosis is critical for identifying risk groups and optimizing patient treatment. The autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) and the introduction of new effective drugs to treatment such as bortezomib, thalidomide and lenalidomide has dramatically improved the outlook for patients with MM. The 5-year survival rate of patients treated with modern therapy and transplant eligible is more than 70% and of elderly patients transplant ineligible is about 50%. Unfortunately, the survival of a subgroup of patients with poor risk factors with certain cytogenetic abnormalities is only 2-3 years. We need to identify strategies to overcome high-risk prognostic factors and improve survival in patient population with MM.

Keywords: multiple myeloma, prognostic factors, chromosomal abnormalities.