Prognostic factors in multiple myeloma in a population-based trial

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Abstract
Prognostic factors have been tested in patients with multiple myeloma treated according to a randomized trial of standard therapy versus 5-drug combination therapy. The following population-based study included 92 patients with a median age of 70 yr. The median survival was 31 months. The Cox regression model was used to search for predictors of survival. The cut-off levels for blood analyses derived in earlier studies tended to select few patients in the high-risk groups, for example only 8% of the patients had hemoglobin (Hb) .ltoreq. 7.5 g/dl. Lytic bone lesions in the pelvis or in the long bones, or spontaneous fractures and age > 70 yr gave prognostic information in addition to anemia and impaired renal function. The MRC staging system was a better prognostic tool than the Durie and Salmon stages. Palliative treatment regimens which take quality of life into account should be considered carefully in multiple myeloma patients > 70 yr.