Multiple Myeloma: Beta-2-Microglobulin is not a Useful Follow-Up Parameter

Abstract

Serum beta-2-microglobulin (β₂M) has been suggested as the most powerful prognostic factor in multiple myeloma (MM). This paper investigates its ability to detect remission and relapse in individual patients. A correlation analysis was carried out between β₂M and M component determinations, at diagnosis and monthly during follow-up in 21 consecutive MM patients with normal renal function. A statistically significant correlation was observed in 52.4% only. The lack of correlation in the remaining cases was due to low β₂M production at diagnosis, or independent fluctuation of these 2 parameters. Serum β₂M proved a much less reliable parameter for the detection of tumour variations than simpler M-component determination.

Multiple Myeloma in the Elderly

“…This may reflect the integration of tumor burden (source of β‐2 microglobulin) and renal function (excretion of β‐2 microglobulin) and some have suggested that β‐2 microglobulin can provide an alternative to clinical staging 49 . β‐2 microglobulin levels have been less reliable in follow up of treated patients 54 and in distinguishing between MGUS and myeloma 55…”

Increased serum neopterin concentration as indicator of disease severity and poor survival in multiple myeloma

“…Only p2 microglobulin demonstrated significant prognostic validity (1 1). However, several patients with poor survival display low p2 microglobulin levels at diagnosis and during relapse (12,13).…”