Interaction between IL-6 and TNF-α genotypes associated with bacteremia in multiple myeloma patients submitted to autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT).

Stem cell transplantation affects patient׳s vulnerability to infections due to immunological changes related to chemotherapy. Multiple myeloma is characterized by susceptibility to infections, and IL-6 and TNF-α increased levels affect immune response (IR). Polymorphisms in promoter region of cytokine genes may alter expression levels and affect IR.