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The relation between bone marrow angiogenesis and the proliferation index Ki-67 in multiple myeloma

M G Alexandrakis1, F H Passam, C Dambaki

  • 1Department of Haematology, University Hospital of Heraklion, PO Box 1352, 71110, Heraklion, Crete, Greece. freda@med.uoc.gr

Journal of Clinical Pathology
|July 29, 2004
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

In multiple myeloma, microvascular density (MVD) and Ki-67 proliferation index (Ki-67 PI) indicate disease progression. These markers correlate with tumor burden and bone marrow angiogenesis, offering insights into multiple myeloma.

Area of Science:

  • Hematology
  • Oncology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Angiogenesis is linked to disease progression in hematological malignancies.
  • Microvascular density (MVD) and proliferation are key factors in cancer development.
  • Understanding these markers in multiple myeloma is crucial for prognosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between MVD and Ki-67 proliferation index (Ki-67 PI) in multiple myeloma.
  • To determine the relationship between MVD, Ki-67 PI, bone marrow infiltration, and C-reactive protein (CRP).
  • To assess the role of these markers in disease progression and tumor burden.

Main Methods:

  • Bone marrow biopsies from 44 patients at diagnosis and 15 in plateau phase were analyzed.
  • Microvascular density (MVD) was assessed using CD34 immunostaining.
  • Ki-67 proliferation index (Ki-67 PI) was evaluated using MIB-1 and CD38 double immunostaining.

Main Results:

  • MVD, Ki-67 PI, bone marrow infiltration, and CRP were significantly elevated in pretreatment multiple myeloma patients.
  • These markers decreased in patients who achieved plateau phase.
  • MVD showed significant correlations with Ki-67 PI and bone marrow infiltration; Ki-67 PI correlated with infiltration.

Conclusions:

  • Ki-67 is a marker of proliferative activity in multiple myeloma.
  • Ki-67 is also associated with bone marrow angiogenesis and tumor burden in multiple myeloma.
  • MVD and Ki-67 PI are valuable indicators of disease activity and progression in multiple myeloma.

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