[Autologous stem cell transplantation in the treatment of multiple myeloma--single center experience]

Abstract

Background/aim: In comparison to standard therapy autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) with high doses mel-phalane has improved treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of treatment of MM patients in our center with ASCTconditioning with melphalane or combining busulphane, cyclophosphamide and melphalane.

Methods: We performed 62 ASCT procedures in 47 patients from 1998 till 2008. Single ASCT were performed in 32 patients (68%), after 3-6 cycles of (26% patients.

Results: Median engraftment was on 12th day. In a 50-month follow-up period 64% patients were alive. The overall response rate (ORR), wich was reached in 38 (80%) patients, was better in the group of patients treated in the early phase of MM. Totally 25 (53%) patients were without progression in a 25-month follow-up period. Twenty patients met criteria for CR + VGPR (very good partial remission), that was 5 patients more than in the period before ASCT. Fourteen (30%) patients died and median time till death was 17 months.

Conclusion: The ASCT perfomed in early phase of MM after V A D induction had a significant influence onthe treatment of MM patients. Reaching CR + VGPR before and after the ASCT is predictive factor for overall survival (OS) or prolongation of period till recidive appears, progression, therapy withdrowal or death.