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The combination of elotuzumab, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (EloRd) enhanced the clinical benefit over Rd with a manageable toxicity profile in the ELOQUENT-2 trial, leading to its approval in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). The present study is a 3-year follow-up update of a previously published Italian real-life RRMM cohort of patients treated with EloRd. This revised analysis entered 319 RRMM patients accrued in 41 Italian centers. After a median follow-up of 36 months (range 6-55), 236 patients experienced disease progression or died. Median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 18.4 and 34 months, respectively. The updated multivariate analyses showed a significant reduction of PFS and OS benefit magnitude only in cases with ISS stage III. Major adverse events included grade 3/4 neutropenia (18.5%), anemia (15.4%), lymphocytopenia (12.5%), and thrombocytopenia (10.7%), while infection rates and pneumonia were 33.9% and 18.9%, respectively. No new safety signals with longer follow-up have been observed. Of 319 patients, 245 (76.7%) reached at least a partial remission. A significantly lower response rate was found in patients previously exposed to lenalidomide. In conclusion, our study confirms that EloRd is a safe and effective regimen for RRMM patients, maintaining benefits across multiple unfavorable subgroups. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Immunoglobulin light chain (AL) amyloidosis is caused by a small, minimally proliferating B-cell/plasma-cell clone secreting a patient-unique, aggregation-prone, toxic light chain (LC). The pathogenicity of LCs is encrypted in their sequence, yet molecular determinants of amyloidogenesis are poorly understood. Higher rates of N-glycosylation among clonal κ LCs from patients with AL amyloidosis compared to other monoclonal gammopathies indicate that this post-translational modification is associated with a higher risk of developing AL amyloidosis. Here, we exploited LC sequence information from previously published amyloidogenic and control clonal LCs and from a series of 220 patients with AL amyloidosis or multiple myeloma followed at our Institutions to define sequence and spatial features of N-glycosylation, combining bioinformatics, biochemical, proteomics, structural and genetic analyses. We found peculiar sequence and spatial pattern of N-glycosylation in amyloidogenic κ LCs, with most of the N-glycosylation sites laying in the framework region 3, particularly within the E strand, and consisting mainly of the NFT sequon, setting them apart with respect to non-amyloidogenic clonal LCs. Our data further support a potential role of N-glycosylation in determining the pathogenic behavior of a subset of amyloidogenic LCs and may help refine current N-glycosylation-based prognostic assessments for patients with monoclonal gammopathies.

Lenalidomide and dexamethasone (Rd)-based triplets, in particular carfilzomib-Rd (KRd) and daratumumab-Rd (DaraRd), represent a standard of care in lenalidomide-sensitive multiple myeloma (MM) patients in first relapse. Meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCT), suggested better outcome with DaraRd. Trying to address this issue in clinical practice, we collected data of 430 consecutive MM patients addressed to Rd-based triplets in first relapse between January 2017 and March 2021. Overall, the most common used regimen was DaraRd, chosen in almost half of the cases (54.4%), followed by KRd (34.6%). Different triplets were used much less commonly. In an attempt to limit the imbalance of a retrospective analysis, we conducted a propensity score matching (PSM) comparison between DaraRd and KRd. After PSM, efficacy of DaraRd versus KRd was similar in terms of overall-response rate (ORR) (OR: 0.9, P=0.685) as well as of very good partial response (VGPR) or better (OR: 0.9, P=0.582). The median progression-free survival (PFS) was significantly longer for DaraRd (29.8 vs. 22.5 months; P=0.028). DaraRd was tolerated better, registering a lower rate of grade 3-4 non-hematological toxicity (OR: 0.4, P

The authors report on the subset of AL amyloidosis patients with nonlymphoplasmacytic lymphoma, emphasizing a predominance of marginal zone lymphoma, frequent delay in diagnosis, and a generally poor prognosis.

SARS-CoV-2 infection has a heterogeneous and largely unpredictable course, ranging from asymptomatic presentation to fatal cases. Several studies have demonstrated that patients with cancer have hi...

IgM monoclonal gammopathies of undetermined significance (IgM MGUS) are associated with a risk of progression to Waldenstrom macroglobulinaemia (WM) or other lymphoproliferative disorders (LPD) of 1-2% per year. We analysed 176 consecutive patients with IgM MGUS to evaluate risk factors for progression. With a median follow-up of 83 months (1214 person-years), 15 patients (8·5%) progressed to WM (n = 14) or marginal zone lymphoma (n = 1). The rate of progression was 1·32% per year (95% confidence interval [CI] 0·80-2·20). The serum monoclonal protein concentration and the MYD88 mutation were independent risk factors for progression (Hazard ratio [HR] 23·3, 95% CI 2·0-273·3, P = 0·012 and HR 24·4, 95% CI 2·2-275·3, P = 0·010, respectively). The cumulative incidence of progression, while considering death as a competing event, was 11·6% at 5 years and 38·0% at 10 years in MYD88-mutated patients with a serum monoclonal protein of 10 g/l or higher, as compared with 0% at 5 years and 1·1% at 10 years for patients with none or one risk factor. This risk-stratification model is able to identify a subset of patients with IgM MGUS at high risk of progression to WM or LPD who deserve a lifelong follow-up.

We explore the predictive role of 2014-updated International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) diagnostic criteria and of some of currently available risk models for progression to symptomatic myeloma when applied in our unselected population of 75 smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) patients observed between 2000 and 2015. Risk scores including routinely used clinical parameters such as bone marrow plasmacell infiltration rate, immunoparesis, serum monoclonal component (sMC) value, and altered free light chain ratio (FLCr), were clinically useful to identify SMM patients at higher risk of progression. Time to myeloma progression in our ultra-high risk SMM according to IMWG diagnostic update criteria was very short (12.4 months). Our analysis identified as independent reliable predictors of progression altered FLCr as well as increasing plasma cell infiltration which are part of most commonly applied risk models. Waiting for new scoring systems, bone marrow evaluation and complete laboratory screening are still milestones for SMM management.

8030 Background: Evaluation of patient (pt)-reported outcomes provides insight into how real-life SOC treatments (tx) affect HRQoL for pts with RRMM. LocoMMotion (NCT04035226) is the first prospective, multinational study of real-life SOC in triple-class exposed pts with RRMM. Here, we present measures of symptoms, functioning, and overall HRQoL. Methods: LocoMMotion is a prospective, noninterventional study across 76 sites (63 European; 13 US). Pts had received ≥3 prior lines of therapy (LOT) or were refractory to PI and IMiD; received PI, IMiD, and anti-CD38 mAb; and had disease progression during/after last LOT. Real-life SOC tx were defined as those used in local clinical practice. The questionnaires were EORTC QLQ-C30, 4 single items from EORTC QLQ-MY20, and EQ 5D-5L. HRQoL was assessed at baseline (BL), day 1 of each tx cycle, end of tx visit, and during the follow-up period (every 4 weeks). Improvement compared to BL health status was evaluated using established thresholds. Within-group change was assessed using mixed models for repeated measures. Results: Questionnaire completion for pts in the LocoMMotion study (N=248; 54.4% male; median age 68 yrs; median 4.0 [range, 1–20] cycles of SOC) was 75.6% during SOC tx. Most pts did not achieve meaningful improvement in PRO scores, defined by a literature-based minimally important difference of 10 points in mean score. This was most pronounced in pain symptoms (62% of pts had no meaningful improvement during the first 3 months of tx; 55% had no improvement during full tx duration). For the overall population, the least square (LS) mean changes from BL during SOC tx and subsequent LOT are described (Table). Pts who achieved very good partial response and better during SOC tx had greater improvement in PRO scores, including in LS mean change for pain score (-14.9 [95% confidence interval (CI): -22.9, -7.0]). Conclusions: In this first prospective study of real-life current SOC in triple-class exposed pts, limited gains in HRQoL were reported, most notably in pain symptoms. There is an urgent need for effective therapies that can help pts achieve deep responses and delay disease progression, as these are associated with improved HRQoL. Clinical trial information: NCT04035226. [Table: see text]

Therapeutic re-challenge is currently a debated issue in the field of multiple myeloma (MM), given the recent availability of several new drugs and combinations. However, very few specific evidences are available about bortezomib re-use at first relapse. This multicenter, observational, retrospective study enrolled 134 MM patients with significant response after bortezomib-based frontline regimens and who had received a first salvage treatment containing bortezomib at relapse. The overall response rate was 71%, including 40% partial responses, 24% very good partial responses, and 7% complete responses. Re-treatment was well-tolerated, with no significant new or unexpected toxicities observed. The median duration of second progression-free survival (PFS) was 15 months, while median PFS2 was 55 months. With a median follow-up of 56 months, overall survival was 94 months for the entire series, without significant differences between patients undergoing or not undergoing transplant procedures. This real-life survey indicates that re-treatment including bortezomib as a first salvage therapy could be still considered in MM patients achieving durable response after initial exposure to bortezomib.

No abstract available

The lack of a randomized trial comparing carfilzomib (K) versus elotuzumab (Elo) associated with lenalidomide and dexamethasone (Rd) prompted us to assess the relative usefulness of one triplet over the other. Five independent retrospective cohorts of 883 relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) patients, including 300 EloRd and 583 KRd cases, outside clinical trials, entered this non-randomized comparison. KRd cohort accounted for a higher incidence of younger patients, cases with ≥3 lines of therapy, already exposed to lenalidomide, International Staging System (ISS) stage III, and abnormal lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) level compared with EloRd cohort. Moreover, cytogenetic risk categories, detected in roughly one-third of cases, were equally distributed between the two therapy arms. The probability of CR+VGPR response was significantly higher in KRd (n = 314, 53.9%) than in EloRd patients (n = 111, 37.0%). Likewise, the cumulative incidence function of CR+VGPR, taking into account the competitive risk of death, was significantly higher in KRd arm patients than those in the EloRd arm (p = .003). Moreover, KRd treatment significantly reduced the progression or death risk by 46% in an adjusted multivariate analysis (HR: 0.54, 95% CI 0.42-0.69, p .0001). Finally, in an adjusted illness-progression/death model, the effect of KRd versus EloRd was of higher magnitude among those who achieved CR+VGPR (-39% hazard ratio reduction, p = .02) than among those who achieved VGPR (-29% hazard ratio reduction, p = .007). With limitations characteristic to any retrospective analysis, this current clinical practice study's overall results demonstrated potential benefits of KRd therapy compared with EloRd. This observation may help the daily clinical practice.

Background: Lenalidomide (R) plus dexamethasone (d) triplet combinations have been indicated by ESMO guidelines as standard of care in first relapse for lenalidomide sensitive multiple myeloma (MM) patients (pts) (Dimopoulos et al, 2021). Meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCT) shows better outcome with the combination of Daratumumab + Rd (DaraRd) over other Rd-based combinations (carfilzomib+Rd (KRd), elotuzumab+Rd (EloRd), Ixazomib+Rd (IxaRd). There are few real-life studies focusing on the pattern of utilization and outcome of different Rd triplets in first relapse MM. Aims: To explore performances of market-approved Rd-based triplets in unselected MM pts in first relapse. Patients and methods: After ethics committee approval, we review data of 366 MM pts in first relapse consecutively addressed to Rd-based triplets according to market-approved schedule after 2017. Rd-based therapies was distributed as follows: DaraRd 51.6% (189 pts), KRd 36.1% (132 pts), EloRd 8.7% (32 pts), IxaRd 3.6% (13 pts). Given the limited number of pts treated with IRd and EloRd, the analysis is focused only on DaraRd and KRd group after further excluding 51 pts (13%) addressed to salvage autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) after daraRd (n=9)/KRd(n=42) fixed induction. Few pts in both groups were previously exposed to R/K/Dara (respectively 12 pts (3%), 8 (2%), 0). Treatment choice was influenced by market approval, with KRD regimen used more commonly in the IQR 2017- 2019, while DaraRd more commonly in the IQR 2018-2020. To limit the bias of a retrospective observation, we calculated a propensity score and we used it (after trimming of 5% of observations) to re-weight the data, according to the Inverse Probability of Treatment method (IPTW analysis). For the estimation of the propensity score, we used: age at Rd-triplet starting, ISS stage, presence of high-risk FISH, previous exposure to Bortezomib, previous ASCT, good response at first-line therapy (≥VGPR), time between diagnosis and relapse, myeloma defining events at diagnosis, type of relapse (symptomatic/biochemical), center. Details of these characteristics are reported in table1. Of note, pts addressed to DaraRd were slightly older (68,7 vs 63,4 years in KRd, p Conclusions: Our real-life study shows that DaraRd represents the most commonly received regimen at first relapse followed by KRd triplet. After propensity score matching, DaraRd and KRd combinations proved to be both effective with similar outcomes when used early in the treatment history, after one line of therapy. This study, in addition, points out the possible gap of outcome between RCT and clinical practice. Figure 1 Figure 1. Disclosures Mangiacavalli: BMS: Honoraria; Janssen: Honoraria; Takeda: Honoraria; GSK: Honoraria. Galli: BMS, Celgene, Janssen, Sanofi, Takeda: Honoraria. Belotti: Janssen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Amgen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Takeda: Consultancy; GSK: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Fazio: Janseen: Honoraria. Petrucci: Celgene: Honoraria, Other: Advisory Board; Janssen-Cilag: Honoraria, Other: Advisory Board; BMS: Honoraria, Other: Advisory Board; Takeda: Honoraria, Other: Advisory Board; Amgen: Honoraria, Other: Advisory Board; GSK: Honoraria, Other: Advisory Board; Karyopharm: Honoraria, Other: Advisory Board.

Background: Treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) commonly encompasses combination of drugs within the three drug classes including proteasome inhibitors (PIs), immunomodulators and (IMiDs), and monoclonal antibodies, both for newly diagnosed and relapsed disease. With increasing appreciation of disease heterogeneity based on underlying genetic abnormality, and demonstration of efficacy of venetoclax in patients with t(11;14) MM, the outcomes with commonly used MM regimens among the different cytogenetic subgroups are of great interest. Venetoclax, a BCL-2 inhibitor, is being studied in t(11;14) positive MM patients who have received at least two prior lines of treatment (NCT03539744; CANOVA). However, outcomes in previously treated t(11;14) MM patients using standard of care approaches in the real-world setting is limited. Patients and methods: This non-interventional, retrospective observational cohort study included patients with t(11;14) MM from the International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) retrospective study of t(11;14) MM. From the overall cohort, patients with t(11;14) MM receiving pomalidomide + dexamethasone (PomDex) in ≥3 rd line were selected, similar to those being enrolled in the ongoing CANOVA trial. Patients were also required to have prior exposure to lenalidomide and a PI without a history of transplant within 16 weeks prior to PomDex initiation. Patients enrolled in a clinical trial were excluded. Overall best response, time to next therapy (TTNT) as a surrogate measure for progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were assessed after initiation of PomDex. All analyses were descriptive in nature and were conducted using SAS 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA). Results: Fifty-two patients who met the inclusion criteria were analyzed. Median age was 63 years, 60% were male. Patients had a median of 3 prior lines at start of PomDex, at a median of 4.3 years from diagnosis; 52% had a prior transplant. A PR or better was observed in 34% of patients with PomDex. The median TTNT for this cohort was 6.1 months and median OS was 19.2 months. Conclusion: This retrospective study of non-trial patients with t(11;14) MM provides a benchmark for newer therapies in this patient population for comparison with both venetoclax dexamethasone in the ongoing CANOVA study as well as combinations using the pomalidomide backbone. Disclosures Karve: AbbVie: Current Employment, Current equity holder in publicly-traded company. Kumar: Roche-Genentech: Consultancy, Research Funding; Bluebird Bio: Consultancy; Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Amgen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding; Takeda: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Astra-Zeneca: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Merck: Research Funding; KITE: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Carsgen: Research Funding; Antengene: Consultancy, Honoraria; Oncopeptides: Consultancy; Beigene: Consultancy; Tenebio: Research Funding; BMS: Consultancy, Research Funding; Abbvie: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Adaptive: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Sanofi: Research Funding. Gonzalez De La Calle: Celgene-BMS, Janssen, Amgen: Honoraria. Mangiacavalli: GSK: Honoraria; Takeda: Honoraria; Janssen: Honoraria; BMS: Honoraria. Kastritis: Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Takeda: Honoraria; Pfizer: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Genesis Pharma: Honoraria; Amgen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding. Esteves: AbbVie: Consultancy; BMS: Consultancy; Amgen: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy. Delforge: Amgen: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Bristol Myers Squibb: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Yee: Karyopharm: Consultancy; Bristol Myers Squibb: Consultancy; Oncopeptides: Consultancy; Adaptive: Consultancy; GSK: Consultancy; Takeda: Consultancy; Amgen: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Sanofi: Consultancy. Arriola: AbbVie: Current Employment, Current holder of individual stocks in a privately-held company, Current holder of stock options in a privately-held company. Ross: AbbVie: Current Employment, Current equity holder in publicly-traded company, Current holder of individual stocks in a privately-held company. Manthena: AbbVie: Current Employment, Current holder of individual stocks in a privately-held company, Current holder of stock options in a privately-held company. Durie: Amgen, Celgene/Bristol-Myers Squibb, Janssen, and Takeda: Consultancy; Amgen: Other: fees from non-CME/CE services .

IgM monoclonal gammopathies of undetermined significance (IgM MGUS) are associated with a risk of progression to Waldenström macroglobulinaemia (WM) or other lymphoproliferative disorders (LPD) of 1-2% per year. We analysed 176 consecutive patients with IgM MGUS to evaluate risk factors for progression. With a median follow-up of 83 months (1214 person-years), 15 patients (8·5%) progressed to WM (n = 14) or marginal zone lymphoma (n = 1). The rate of progression was 1·32% per year (95% confidence interval [CI] 0·80-2·20). The serum monoclonal protein concentration and the MYD88 mutation were independent risk factors for progression (Hazard ratio [HR] 23·3, 95% CI 2·0-273·3, P = 0·012 and HR 24·4, 95% CI 2·2-275·3, P = 0·010, respectively). The cumulative incidence of progression, while considering death as a competing event, was 11·6% at 5 years and 38·0% at 10 years in MYD88-mutated patients with a serum monoclonal protein of 10 g/l or higher, as compared with 0% at 5 years and 1·1% at 10 years for patients with none or one risk factor. This risk-stratification model is able to identify a subset of patients with IgM MGUS at high risk of progression to WM or LPD who deserve a lifelong follow-up.

Bortezomib is still a cornerstone for treatment of patients with multiple myeloma (MM) [1–3]. Following regulatory agency approval obtained after completion of phase III comparing trial [4], there ...

Introduction Lenalidomide (Len) and low-dose Dexamethasone (dex) (Rd) in continuous is a new standard of care for elderly newly-diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) patients (pts), as established by FIRST trial (Facon et al, Blood 2018). Methods and results This is a retrospective, multicentric study conducted in Italy with the aim of evaluating efficacy and tolerability of Rd in a real-life population. Thirty-seven centers were involved and data of 429 pts are available. Pts were considered eligible for the study when completing at least 2 cycles of Rd regimen. Table 1 summarizes the characteristics of pts at time of MM diagnosis. Median age was 78 years (range 57-92), 36.6% had an ECOG PS≥2, creatinine clearance (ClCr) was After a median follow-up of 11 months, most pts are still on treatment (60,4%), the median number of administered cycles was 7 (range 2-33). Overall response rate (ORR, ≥PR) was 74.5% with 34.1% of pts obtaining at least a VGPR. Clinical Benefit Rate (CBR, including minimal responses) was 83.3%. Responses were rapid with median time to first and to best response respectively of 1.8 (range 1-8) and 5 (1-26) months. Median OS and PFS were not reached with a 1-y and 2-y OS of 84.8 and 73.8% and a 1-y and 2-y PFS of 78.6 and 65%. Median EFS was 19.8 months. In univariate analysis, factors significatively impairing ORR were frailty (fit/unfit/frail 91.2/77/55.9%, p2 81.7/61.6%, p upper level of normal (ULN) (65.8 vs 77%, p=0.034). 1-y PFS is significantly shorter in pts with lower ECOG (0-1 vs 2, 66.5 vs 84.8%, pULN (66.4 vs 83.2%, p=0.02), lower ClCr (50 57.2/81.3/80.1%, P=0.01), presence of t(14;16) (42.9 vs 80.4% p=0.01) and amp(1q) (63.5 vs 85.6%, p=0.01); factor impairing OS are ECOG (0-1/>2 93.4 vs 69.4%, pULN (75.1 vs 97.1, p=0004), impaired ClCr (50 64/83.7/88.2%, p2 74.2 vs 47.3%, p In multivariate analysis ORR is significantly correlated with ECOG>2 (p=0.05), LDH >ULN (p=0.005) and presence of amp1q (p=0.006); PFS was significantly affected by R-ISS III (p=0.04), LDH >ULN (P=0.01) and ClCr2 still impact on OS (p Dose reduction of Len or dex was required respectively in 20.7% and 22.1% and 39.2% needed cycle delay for adverse events (AEs). Grade 3-4 (G3-4) AEs occurred in 52% of pts with 30.9 and 36.6% having at least a hematological or extra-hematological G3-4 AE. In particular, 17.9 and 16.6% of pts had severe neutropenia and anemia while the most common non-hematological AEs were infections (25.8%, G3-4 12.2%), mainly involving respiratory tract (71.2%). Gastroenteric and cutaneous AEs were quite common (22.1 and 19.2%), mainly diarrhea and itching, but in the vast majority were mild. G3-4 asthenia was present in 22.8% of pts. Although 99% of pts was given antithrombotic prophylaxis, 8.5% had a thromboembolic event, a third of severe entity. G-CSF and EPO analogs were required in 27.4 and 26% of pts. Conclusion Real-life data confirm efficacy and tolerability of Rd in elderly NDMM pts. Performance status by ECOG and IMWG frailty score and severe renal impairment but not age itself act as limiting factors affecting outcome. These data must be confirmed by longer follow-up. Disclosures Conticello: Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Amgen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding. Mangiacavalli:Janssen cilag: Consultancy; celgene: Consultancy; Amgen: Consultancy. Zambello:Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Janssen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Belotti:Amgen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Janssen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Molteni:Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Aquino:Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Janssen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Amgen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Del Fabro:Janssen: Consultancy. Galli:Leadiant (Sigma-Tau): Honoraria; Janssen: Honoraria; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Honoraria; Takeda: Honoraria; Celgene: Honoraria.

Background: Diffusion-weighted whole body MRI (WB-DWI) is a new functional imaging technique comprising anatomical and functional sequences with an emerging role in the management of multiple myeloma (MM) patients (pts) since it allows highly sensitive detection of diffuse bone marrow (BM) infiltration pattern and focal lesions, avoiding intravenous injections and radiation exposure. The aims of our study were 1) to test the correlation between plasma cells infiltration (BMPC) rate at BM biopsy and the presence of diffuse infiltration pattern at WB-DWI. 2) to compare response according to IMWG criteria and WB-DWI response and to establish the rate of discordancy (WB-DWI progression with increased focal lesions and at least a partial response according to IMWG criteria) Methods: We reviewed data regarding 45 MM patients (pts) observed in our Centre between September 2018 and July 2019 for whom quantification of serum and urine monoclonal component (MC), free light chains value (FLC), BM biopsy, whole body CT scan and WB-DWI data were available at the same time point. Sequential assessment of WB-DWI and laboratory data was available in 20 pts. Patients performed a WB-DWI (Magnetom Area, 1.5T, Siemens Enlarged Germany) for head to knee. The protocol included anatomical sequences T1 and T2 weighted with fat suppression on the sagittal plane specifically for the spine. Coronal T2 weighted fat suppression sequences are performed for the study of femural bone. Axial Dixon T1 weighted sequences of the whole scan region, in breath-old. The functional part is formed by diffusion weighted sequences in the axial plane. MM diagnosis and response were assessed by IMWG criteria. Response were categorized as follows: responsive patients if ≥PR, progressive disease if Results: Table 1 summarizes the clinical and radiological data of the population on study. Median age was 64 years (range 38-86), median number of previous lines of therapy at time of evaluation was 0 (range 0-)2; 47% pts were at the onset, 31% were in follow-up after treatment completion, 22% had progressive disease. WB-DWI showed a diffuse pattern in 22 pts (49%); in 23 patients without a diffuse pattern, 7 (30%) had PBMC >10%; BMPC infiltration rate was significantly higher in pts with presence of diffuse pattern at WB-DWI (p Conclusions: Our study findsa significant correlation between presence of WB-DWI diffuse infiltration patter and BMPC rate, highlighting the possible future use of this radiological technique for monitoring BM residual disease. In addition, this study shows the possible not negligible emergence of discordant pattern of progression, probably deriving from the spatial heterogeneity of MM clones and their different sensitivity to therapy. Disclosures Mangiacavalli: celgene: Consultancy; Janssen cilag: Consultancy; Amgen: Consultancy. Varettoni:Gilead: Other: travel expenses; ABBVIE: Other: travel expenses; Roche: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy. Arcaini:Celgene: Speakers Bureau; Celgene, Roche, Janssen-Cilag, Gilead: Other: Travel expenses; Gilead Sciences: Research Funding; Bayer, Celgene, Gilead Sciences, Roche, Sandoz, Janssen-Cilag, VERASTEM: Consultancy.

There is much evidence demonstrating that psychosocial interventions in caregivers and oncological staff produce an improvement in their patients' quality of life. The aim of this explorative study was to evaluate the effect of a new approach in promoting more functional ways to face stressful situations in the constellation of people around patients: caregivers, physicians and nurses. Thirty-four subjects were divided into three groups: 10 caregivers, 11 physicians, and 13 nurses. A “Balint Group” method modified according to a mindfulness technique was used as the intervention. Three assessment tools were administered to the participants at baseline, during, and after completion of the study: the Response Evaluation Measure (REM-71), the Satisfaction Profile (SAT-P), and the Group Climate Questionnaire (GCQ). Mean values of defense mechanisms determined by the REM-71 were compared with those of the standard population. At baseline, we observed a prevalence of immature defenses in the three groups, with mean values above those in the standard population. After the psychological intervention, a tendency to normalization of the mean values was observed, indicating the development of more adaptive ways of using defense mechanisms and the effectiveness of the intervention. Group climate, assessed through the GCQ, showed an increase in the “Engagement” factor and a decline in the “Conflict” factor in all groups. This study suggests that group treatment focused on changing personal responses to stressful situations can induce more adaptive strategies enabling caregivers, hematologists, and nurses to help patients better and thereby improve their quality of life.

8015 Background: Multiple myeloma (MM) is a heterogeneous disease with varying survival outcomes depending on the presence of certain genetic abnormalities. Common abnormalities include trisomies, translocations involving chromosome 14, and amplifications or deletions of chromosomes 1, 13, and 17. t(11;14), occurring in approx. 15% of patients (pts) with MM, is considered a standard risk abnormality, but recent data suggest that the prognosis may be inferior to what had been expected. This is of particular relevance as new therapeutic options such as the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax has been shown to be effective in t(11;14) pts. Methods: This was a multicenter study designed and conducted by the IMWG, to identify the outcomes of pts with t(11;14) using a retrospective cohort of pts. Pts with MM diagnosed between 2005 and 2015 with t(11;14) identified on FISH performed within six months (mos) of diagnosis, and with treatment details available and if alive, a minimum of 12 mos of follow up, were enrolled. Results: The current analysis includes 848 pts with a median age of 64.4 years; 60.0% are male. The median follow-up from diagnosis for the entire cohort was 45.7 mos; 84.7% of the pts were alive at the last follow up. ISS stage distribution included: Stage 1 (35.3%), Stage II (38.9%) and stage III (25.8%). The distribution of FISH abnormalities included: del 13q (14.5%), 1q amp (12.1%), del 17p or monosomy 17 (6.1%). Pts received initial therapy with different regimens: IMiD-24.3%, PI-41.0%, both-20.8% and 13.8% had no novel agent. The drug classes by line of therapy are shown in table. An early stem cell transplant (SCT) was used in 40.8% of pts. The median time to next treatment (TTNT) after initial treatment was 15.0 (95% CI: 12.2 to 17.7) mos. The median overall survival from diagnosis for the entire cohort was 82.5 (95% CI: 73.5 to 95.8) mos. Conclusions: This is the first study to examine the outcomes of a large group of myeloma pts with t(11;14) abnormality. Pts receiving a combination if a PI and an IMiD appear to have the best survival outcomes and thse receiving an early SCT appear to have excellent survival with median OS approaching 10 years. Additional pts are being accrued to this study and additional analysis examining the variables affecting response duration and survival will be presented. [Table: see text]

8000 Background: The diagnostic criteria for MM were revised in 2014, recategorizing ultra-high risk (i.e., 80% at two years) as active myeloma requiring therapy. The removal of patients at the highest risk of progression from the smoldering group requires reassessment of current risk stratification models. Methods: We designed a multicenter, retrospective study of SMM patients to develop a risk stratification model. Patients diagnosed with SMM on/after January 1, 2004 were included if they had no disease progression within 6 months, had baseline data from diagnosis (+/- 3 months), had a follow up of ≥1 year, and did not participate in a therapeutic trial of SMM. Various clinical and laboratory factors were explored to identify factors that predicted progression at 2 years. Univariate Cox regressions were run for each factor. For factors with p-values ≤ 0.25, optimal cut points were identified using Youden’s index. Binary factors were used in stepwise regression to fit multivariable Cox model and significant risk factors were determined (F-test). Results: Overall, 2004 patients were included (ages 26-93, 51% female). Factors independently associated with progression (optimal cutoffs) included: Serum M protein (2 g/dL), involved to uninvolved serum-free light chain ratio (20), and marrow plasma cell % (20%). Patients were stratified using the risk factors: Low- (0 factors), Intermediate- (1), and High-Risk (≥2). Previously used high risk markers such as Bence Jones proteinuria (≥500 mg/24 hours) and severe immunoparesis (50% decrease in uninvolved immunoglobulin levels) were both significant in univariate analysis, but were eliminated on step wise selection. Compared to the low risk group, intermediate- and high-risk groups had significantly higher rate of progression (Table). Within the high-risk group, having all 3 risk factors (n=61) versus 2 did not add to the model, with insufficient separation between 2 and 3 factors. Conclusions: We have developed a risk stratification model for SMM that incorporates revised cutoffs for previously used parameters (20/2/20) that can be universally applied. Additonal analysis are being conducted to develop models that utilize common cytogenetic abnormalities, as well as those without FLC given lack of availability of all tests across the world. [Table: see text]

Introduction Elotuzumab (Elo), an immunostimulatory monoclonal antibody targeting signaling lymphocytic activation molecule F7 (SLAMF7), received marketing approval in Italy for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM), in combination with lenalidomide (R) and dexamethasone (d) (EloRd) in April 2017. Here we report preliminary data of an Italian real-life experience on EloRd as salvage therapy for RRMM patients treated outside of controlled clinical trials. The primary objectives of this study were to assess the toxicity profile and the efficacy of EloRd administered as salvage therapy in a real-world setting. Methods Retrospective data collection received approval from local ethic committee. The cohort included 180 RRMM patients from 28 Italian centers who received at least one cycle of EloRd as salvage treatment between April 2017 and June 2018. Patients were treated with EloRD according to marketing approval as follows: Elo 10 mg/kg i.v. on days 1, 8, 15, and 22 during the first two cycles and then on days 1 and 15 of each following cycle, R 25 mg on days 1 to 21 of each cycle and d at a dose of 40 mg during the week without Elo, and 36 mg on the day of Elo administration. Responsive patients had to reach at least a partial remission (PR). Results Baseline characteristics are shown in Table 1. Median age of the 180 patients was 72 years (range 48-89 years); 53.9% were males (Table 1). The median number of previous therapy regimens was 1 (range 1-7); 69 patients (38.3%) received a previous autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). One hundred and ten patients (61.1%) showed a symptomatic relapse, 36 (20%) a biochemical relapse, and 34 cases (18.9%) were refractory to the last therapy, including bortezomib in 12.8% of patients. Forty-four patients (24.4%) had creatinine clearance ≤60 mL/min. Among the 138 cases evaluable for International Scoring System (ISS), 54 (39.1%) had stage I, 56 (40.6%) stage II, and 28 (20.3%) stage III. At last data collection (June 2018), 164 cases were evaluable for response. The median number of courses administered so far was 5 (range 1-18). The overall response rate (ORR) was 78%, with 9 complete remissions (CRs) (5.5%) and 49 very good partial remissions (VGPRs) (35.4%). A significant higher ORR was observed in patients who had received only 1 previous line of therapy than those who had received >1 line (64% vs 37.5%; p=0.004). Age ( After a median follow-up of 6 months (range 1-18 months) 33 patients stopped treatment due to disease progression and 4 due to toxicity (2 cases after 1 cycle for pneumonia, 1 after 1 cycle for dexamethasone-related psychosis, and 1 after 2 cycles for lenalidomide-related severe skin rash). A total of 17 patients died (7 patients from progressive disease; 2 from an infection; 1 from a second neoplasia; 7 from causes unrelated to therapy). Follow-up data regarding PFS and overall survival are not sufficiently mature to be analyzed. Common grade 3 or 4 adverse events were fatigue (18.9%), anemia (17%), neutropenia (16.5%), lymphocytopenia (15.9%), and pneumonia (15.9%). Infusion reactions occurred in 13 patients (7.2%) and were always of grade 1 or 2. Infusion reactions resolved in all patients and no case discontinued treatment. Conclusions Our real world preliminary data confirm that EloRd is an effective and safe regimen for RRMM patients, particularly if used as first salvage regimen, basically resembling results obtained in controlled clinical trials. Table 1. Table 1. Disclosures Galli: Celgene: Honoraria; Janssen: Honoraria; Sigma-Tau: Honoraria; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Honoraria. Giuliani:Janssen Pharmaceutica: Other: Avisory Board, Research Funding; Celgene Italy: Other: Avisory Board, Research Funding; Takeda Pharmaceutical Co: Research Funding. Mangiacavalli:Janssen: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy; Cilag: Consultancy. Ballanti:Celgene: Honoraria; Janssen: Honoraria; Amgen: Honoraria; BMS: Honoraria. Montefusco:Celgene: Other: Advisory Board; Amgen: Other: Advisory Board; Janssen: Other: Advisory Board. Bringhen:Bristol-Myers Squibb: Honoraria; Celgene: Honoraria; Amgen: Honoraria, Other: Advisory Board; Janssen: Honoraria, Other: Advisory Board; Takeda: Consultancy. Zamagni:Amgen: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Janssen: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Takeda: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; BMS: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Patriarca:Celgene: Other: Advisory Role; Travel, accommodations, expenses; Janssen: Other: Advisory role; Jazz: Other: Travel, accommodations, expenses; Medac: Other: Travel, accommodations, expenses; MSD Italy: Other: Advisory Role. Di Raimondo:Takeda: Honoraria, Research Funding; Celgene: Honoraria. Petrucci:Takeda Oncology; Amgen; Celgene; BMS; Janssen Cilag: Honoraria, Other: Advisory Board. Offidani:Bristol-Myers Squibb: Honoraria, Other: Advisory Board; Amgen: Honoraria, Other: Advisory Board; Takeda: Honoraria, Other: Advisory Board; Janssen: Honoraria, Other: Advisory Board; Celgene: Honoraria, Other: Advisory Board.

A study has shown that MYD88 (L265P) is a recurring somatic mutation in Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia (WM). We developed an allele-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for this mutation, and analyzed bone marrow or peripheral blood samples from 58 patients with WM, 77 with IgM monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (IgM-MGUS), 84 with splenic marginal zone lymphoma (SMZL), and 52 with B-cell chronic lymphoproliferative disorders (B-CLPD). MYD88 (L265P) was detected in 58/58 (100%) patients with WM, 36/77 (47%) with IgM-MGUS, 5/84 (6%) with SMZL, and 3/52 (4%) with B-CLPD. Compared to IgM-MGUS patients with wild-type MYD88, those carrying MYD88 (L265P) showed significantly higher levels of IgM (P < .0001) and presented Bence-Jones proteinuria more frequently at diagnosis (P = .002). During follow-up, 9 patients with IgM-MGUS progressed to WM or to marginal zone lymphoma. Using a case-control approach, the risk of evolution of patients carrying MYD88 (L265P) was significantly higher than that of patients with wild-type MYD88 (odds ratio 4.7, 95% confidence interval 0.8 to 48.7, P = .047). These findings indicate that the allele-specific PCR we developed is a useful diagnostic tool for patients with WM or IgM-MGUS. In this latter condition, MYD88 (L265P) is associated with greater disease burden and higher risk of disease progression, and the mutation may therefore also represent a useful prognostic marker.

Systemic light chain (AL) amyloidosis is caused by the clonal production of an unstable immunoglobulin light chain (LC), which affects organ function systemically. Although pathogenic LCs have been characterized biochemically, little is known about the biology of amyloidogenic plasma cells (PCs). Intrigued by the unique response rates of AL amyloidosis patients to the first-in-class proteasome inhibitor (PI) bortezomib, we purified and investigated patient-derived AL PCs, in comparison with primary multiple myeloma (MM) PCs, the prototypical PI-responsive cells. Functional, biochemical, and morphological characterization revealed an unprecedented intrinsic sensitivity of AL PCs to PIs, even higher than that of MM PCs, associated with distinctive organellar features and expression patterns indicative of cellular stress. These consisted of expanded endoplasmic reticulum (ER), perinuclear mitochondria, and a higher abundance of stress-related transcripts, and were consistent with reduced autophagic control of organelle homeostasis. To test whether PI sensitivity stems from AL LC production, we engineered PC lines that can be induced to express amyloidogenic and nonamyloidogenic LCs, and found that AL LC expression alters cell growth and proteostasis and confers PI sensitivity. Our study discloses amyloidogenic LC production as an intrinsic PC stressor, and identifies stress-responsive pathways as novel potential therapeutic targets. Moreover, we contribute a cellular disease model to dissect the biology of AL PCs.

A total of 318 consecutive myeloma patients underwent whole-body low-dose CT scan (WBLDCT) at baseline and during follow-up as a radiological assessment of lytic lesions in place of skeletal X-ray survey. After WBLDCT baseline assessment, 60% had bone involvement. The presence of lytic lesions represented the only met CRAB (hyperCalcaemia, Renal insufficiency, Anaemia, Bone lesions) criteria in 29% of patients. Patients presenting with extramedullary masses were 10%. Radiological progression was documented in 9% of the population with available follow-up. Additional pathological incidental findings were detected in 28 patients (14.5%), most located in the chest region (68%). In conclusion, our real-life data shows that WBLDCT scan represents a reliable imaging tool for decision-making process for multiple myeloma management in different disease phases, providing significant additional information on the presence of soft tissues plasmacytomas detection as well as the presence of pathological incidental findings.

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable hematological malignancy. Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (ASCT) represents a possible curative option for a subset of young and fit patients having a HLA...

Complete response (CR) is associated with better outcome in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) treated with autologous transplant even though the progression-free survival (PFS) can be very variable among patients with good response. No simple and reliable prognostic scoring system, able to predict the duration of response, are so far available. Aim of this study was to identify any correlation between baseline clinical findings, response after transplant and the length of PFS, and thus develop a prognostic model. The new prognostic model was developed in a learning cohort of 549 patients with MM transplanted in five Italian hospitals. The prognostic value of this new score was confirmed in a validation cohort of 276 distinct patients with MM transplanted in two different Italian hospital. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed using Cox models. The most important independent baseline predictor of transplant outcome, together with response after transplant, was International Staging System (ISS). We thus incorporated response to transplant and baseline ISS in a new scoring system, named response-adjusted international scoring system (RaISS), that was able to classify patients in three risk groups (low, intermediate, high) with different probabilities of progression after transplant (median PFS 35.9-15.4 months). The prognostic value of this new score was confirmed in the validation cohort. In conclusion, RaISS is a new simple and easily available scoring system that, accurately defining the risk of progression, can allow to identify patients who could deserve further treatment after transplant (consolidation, maintenance).

A total of 303 MM patients were retrospectively reviewed to evaluate long-term efficacy and toxicity of thalidomide alone or in combination with steroids. Overall response rate was 57% (CR/VGPR 12%). Median TTP, PFS and OS were 13.4 months, 20.6 months, and 26.2 months, respectively. PFS and OS were significantly different according to response (p < 0.0001), with better outcome in patients achieving CR/VGPR (PFS and OS 35.4 months and 63 months, respectively). PFS and OS of patients achieving SD or PR were overlapping (p = 0.3). The addition of steroids significantly increased the response rate (p = 0.01). The most clinically relevant complications were neuropathy (40%), constipation (26%), thromboembolic events (7%). Thalidomide was reduced for toxicity in 68 patients (24%) and permanently discontinued in 36 (12%). In conclusion, thalidomide produces high response rate in relapsed/refractory MM. The best outcome is observed in patients with good quality response, but even patients with suboptimal response may obtain durable survival.

Objective Bortezomib is a new chemotherapeutic drug available for the treatment of lymphoid disorders, including multiple myeloma. Although its primary mechanism of action is proteasome inhibition, other mechanisms can contribute to the therapeutic effects, including modulation of inflammatory cytokines and immune response. One of the main toxic effects of bortezomib is peripheral neuropathy, usually occurring in the form of a painful, sensory axonal neuropathy. The mechanisms of peripheral damage, however, are still unclear. We here report a series of patients treated with bortezomib, who developed a peripheral damage possibly related to immuno-mediated, rather than toxic, mechanisms. Methods Five patients who developed a peripheral neuropathy with severe motor involvement under bortezomib treatment underwent CSF, electrophysiological, and spinal cord MRI examinations. Results Peripheral damage was characterized by: demyelinating or mixed axonal-demyelinating neuropathy, with prominent motor involvement; albumin-cytological dissociation; lumbar root enhancement on MRI in 2/5 patients; favourable outcome in 4/5 patients after immune treatments, either steroids (2 patients) or IVIg (2 patients). Conclusions In some instances, the peripheral damage associated with bortezomib may recognize immuno-mediated mechanisms. Significance This form of bortezomib-associated neuropathy needs to be recognized as treatable condition, as it may respond to immune therapies. Unexplained worsening of neurological dysfunction despite bortezomib discontinuation, with prominent motor involvement and CSF signs of inflammation, may be the clues to this complication.

Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is a reported complication of bisphosphonate use. The incidence ranges between 6 and 13% and seems to be higher in people treated with zoledronic acid (ZA) than with pamidronate. We retrospectively evaluated the incidences of ONJ and skeletal-related events (SRE) in 106 patients with multiple myeloma divided in two groups according to the schedule of administration of bisphosphonates: 51 received monthly administrations until tolerated (group A, standard schedule), 55 were treated monthly during the first year and then every 3 months (group B, reduced schedule). The incidence of SRE was similar (15.1 per 100 person years in group A and 17.7 in group B). ONJ occurred in seven patients, six in group A and one in group B (P=0.049). The risk of ONJ was eight-fold lower with the reduced schedule than with the standard schedule. The only significant risk factor for ONJ was the type of bisphosphonate (P=0.006). The incidence of ONJ was significantly higher with ZA than with pamidronate + ZA (9.1 vs 1.6 per 100 person-years). No ONJ was observed in patients treated only with pamidronate. A reduced schedule of ZA may be safer than the standard schedule while maintaining anti-resorptive efficacy.

Painful sensory peripheral neuropathy represents the main Bortezomib dose-limiting toxicity. Although the once-weekly schedule and the sub-cutaneous administration have significantly improved Borte...

Autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) is still considered an effective option for first-line treatment in transplant eligible young patients with multiple myeloma (MM), even in the era of novel ag...

BACKGROUND Myeloma plasma cells interact with the bone marrow microenvironment which, in turn, supports their growth and protects them from apoptosis. In vitro studies have demonstrated the antitumor potential of zoledronic acid (ZOL) on myeloma cell lines, but few data are available on its effects on bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs). The aim of the current study was to evaluate the antiproliferative and apoptotic effect of ZOL on BMSCs, as well as its effect on the expression of adhesion molecules. METHODS BMSCs, obtained from bone marrow mononucleated cells of 8 patients with multiple myeloma, were treated with increasing concentrations of ZOL for 3 days. Cytotoxic effect was analyzed by 3-(4-5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide; thiazolyl blue (MTT) assay whereas the induction of apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometric detection of fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled annexin V, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling assay, and nuclear changes. Moreover, expression of CD106, CD56, CD50, CD49d, CD44, and CD40 was analyzed by flow cytometry. Data were evaluated by the Friedman test. RESULTS After 3 days of exposure at concentrations of 10−4 to 10−5 M, ZOL induced a decrease in proliferation (P < 0.0001) and an increase in apoptosis (P < 0.002). Analysis of culture supernatants showed that myeloma BMSCs expressed interleukin (IL)-6, negligible levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and no IL-1β. In vitro exposure to the lowest concentrations of ZOL decreased IL-6 production by BMSCs. Among the adhesion molecules, CD106, CD54, CD49d, and CD40, which were strongly expressed at baseline, showed a statistically significant reduction compared with controls after exposure to ZOL. CONCLUSIONS ZOL interfered with myeloma BMSCs by reducing proliferation, increasing apoptosis, and modifying the pattern of expression of adhesion molecules, especially those involved in plasma cell binding. These effects on BMSCs might explain the antitumor activity of ZOL. Cancer 2005;. © 2005 American Cancer Society.

Renal failure is one of the worst complications occurring in multiple myeloma (MM) patients. It does not affect survival if reverted by a prompt chemotherapy before the damage becomes irreversible; therefore, the early diagnosis of renal dysfunction is crucial. High and low molecular weight urinary proteins have proved to be helpful in diagnosing initial renal damage since they are more sensitive than urea and creatinine serum levels or creatinine clearance. We studied the renal function of 111 MM patients through serum creatinine, urea, urinary IgG, alpha(1)-microglobulin (alpha(1)-M), and albumin (Alb). Two successive controls were made in a subset of 30 patients, categorized in three groups (improved, stable, worsened) according to the behavior of tumor burden markers (bone marrow plasmacytosis, monoclonal component, and beta(2)-microglobulin). In every group, we evaluated the behavior of urinary proteins. Renal dysfunction evaluated with serum parameters was present in 19 patients (17%), while if studied with urinary proteins was revealed in 71 patients (64.5%). Urinary proteins statistically correlated with each other. They correlated with creatinine, IgG, and alpha(1)-M also with urea. By contrast, they showed a variable correlation with clinical parameters: alpha(1)-M correlated with bone marrow plasmacytosis (BMPC) ( p=0.02) and beta(2)-M ( p=0.000001), IgG with all three disease parameters (MC p=0.0005, BMPC p=0.009, beta(2)-M p=0.007), and Alb only with beta(2)-M ( p=0.0004). In the subset of 30 patients followed with two successive controls, urinary proteins showed a parallel behavior with the indices of tumor burden. In conclusion, IgG, alpha(1)-microglobulin, and albumin are reliable and sensitive to precociously reveal renal damage, and we recommend their routine use for the definition and monitoring of renal function in multiple myeloma patients, mainly those in early stage, to better identify initial signs of progression.