[The prognostic significance of the beta 2-microglobulin level of the blood serum in multiple myeloma patients].

Pretreatment and treatment content of beta 2-microglobulin in blood serum was measured in 52 patients with multiple myeloma stage IIA, IIB, IIIA and IIIB. The above concentrations before treatment correlated with the disease stage, rose in the exacerbation, remained unchanged in stabilization, fell in effective therapy and returned to normal values in remission. However, in pronounced renal insufficiency (stage IIIB) the remission beta 2-microglobulin levels remained high. A 6 mg/l concentration proved critical for survival. The survival median at pretreatment beta 2-microglobulin content above 6 mg/l was 14 months, under 6 mg/l--49 months. Routine estimation of beta 2-microglobulin levels is necessary for better control over multiple myeloma treatment, timely change of cytostatic drugs.