[Prognostic value of the ratio of bone marrow plasma cells in multiple myeloma]

The relationship between initial percentage of bone marrow plasma cells and survival was studied in a group of 70 patients affected with multiple myeloma. All patients had a complete follow-up. The initial percentage of plasma cells shows a highly significant correlation with survival. Moreover, the percentage of bone marrow plasma cells is also correlated with the levels of hemoglobinemia and serum or urinary monoclonal component. The patients were divided in three groups according to the percentage of bone marrow plasma cells: group A: less than 20%; group B: 21-40%; group C: greater than 41%. The mean survival times of these three groups are significantly different, as well as their survival curves. The initial percentage of plasma cells in bone marrow is an useful parameter for estimating survival and predicting prognosis, and it can be an additional factor in the clinical staging of multiple myeloma, while the effectiveness of therapy can be monitored by sequential bone marrow aspirates.