Impact of the lactate dehydrogenase in association with the International Staging System prognostic score in multiple myeloma patients treated in real life.

Introduction: Multiple myeloma is characterized by proliferation of clonal plasma cells. The identification of prognostics factors to identify patient's risk is important. Among the studied factors, it was identified of relevant importance the lactic dehydrogenase.

Effect of thalidomide on bone marrow angiogenesis in multiple myeloma patients.

Background: Bone marrow angiogenesis is increased in multiple myeloma (MM) patients, prompting the rationale for using antiangiogenic drugs in the treatment of these patients.

Objective: To assess angiogenesis in patients with MM at diagnosis and following treatment with an antiangiogenic drug.

Patients And Methods: Twenty-three patients with newly diagnosed MM were treated with thalidomide-based regimens.

Outcomes of autologous transplantation for multiple myeloma according to different induction regimens.

Background: Induction therapy followed by high-dose chemotherapy and autologous transplantation is the standard treatment for suitable patients with multiple myeloma.

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess whether induction therapy with thalidomidecontaining regimens was associated with improved results compared to vincristine, doxorubicin, and dexamethasone, and whether cyclophosphamide, thalidomide, and dexamethasone were associated with better results than thalidomide and dexamethasone.

Methods: The records of 152 patients who underwent autologous transplantation at this institution from August of 2004 to January of 2012 were reviewed, selecting those with at least partial response to a maximum of eight cycles of induction therapy and sufficient follow-up information for analysis.