Treatment of patients with multiple myeloma complicated by renal failure with bortezomib-based regimens

Maria Roussou1, Efstathios Kastritis, Magdalini Migkou

  • 1Clinical Therapeutics, University of Athens School of Medicine, Alexandra Hospital, Sophias, Greece.

Abstract

Insights

Bortezomib-based regimens show promise for multiple myeloma patients with renal failure. These treatments can improve kidney function and are safe, with similar efficacy and toxicity to patients without renal impairment.

Area of Science:

  • Hematology
  • Nephrology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Renal failure is a significant complication in multiple myeloma, posing management challenges.
  • Limited data exists on the reversibility of renal failure and the safety of novel agents in these patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the safety and efficacy of bortezomib-based regimens in multiple myeloma patients with renal failure.
  • To assess the kinetics of serum creatinine and the reversibility of renal failure.

Main Methods:

  • A study of 20 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed or relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma and renal failure (serum creatinine ≥ 2 mg/dl).
  • Patients received bortezomib in combination with dexamethasone or other agents (thalidomide, doxorubicin, melphalan).

Main Results:

  • Renal failure reversal occurred in 40% of patients within a median of 17 days.
  • A 50% decrease in serum creatinine was observed in 50% of patients (median 35 days), with some creatinine decrease in 85%.
  • Objective response rate was 65%, and toxicities were comparable to patients without renal impairment.

Conclusions:

  • Bortezomib-based regimens are safe and effective for multiple myeloma patients with renal impairment.
  • These regimens can improve serum creatinine levels and reverse renal failure in a significant proportion of patients.

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