Influence of thalidomide on megakaryocytes in multiple myeloma

The aim of the study was to assess the influence of thalidomide on megakaryocytes (MK) in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). The study was based on bone marrow trephine biopsies from 12 patients with MM before initiation of thalidomide administration and after three months of its duration. The morphometric examinations were done, using image analysis (DP 12). Quantitative assessment of MK and the analysis of the morphological parameters of MK were performed. MK with features of dysplasia were more frequently observed before the treatment. Additionally, a greater number of the so-called 'naked nuclei' was noticed then. Due to the effect of thalidomide, the mean number of MK increased and so did their area. During the treatment, a more frequent presence of emperipolesis was observed. The observations confirm the fact that thalidomide may cause changes in MK.