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Clinicopathological characteristics of extremely young Korean multiple myeloma patients: therapeutic implications
Junghoon Shin1, Youngil Koh1, Jeonghwan Youk1
1Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
Background/Aims:
Although multiple myeloma (MM) is typically a disease of the elderly, a certain subset of extremely young patients exists. It is necessary to establish clinicopathological characteristics for this population.
Methods:
We reviewed the medical records of MM patients whose age was 40 years or younger at diagnosis.
Results:
A total of 32 patients were analyzed (male to female ratio 19:13, median age 37 years). According to International Staging System, 29%, 48%, and 16% were in stage I, II, and III, respectively. Light chain myeloma accounted for 30%. Clinically significant anemia, hypercalcemia, azotemia, and hypoalbuminemia were present in 29%, 28%, 13%, and 28%, respectively. Three or more lytic bone lesions were detected in 45% of the patients, whereas 13% had no lytic bone lesions. Regarding treatment, 79% of patients received autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. After a median follow-up duration of 64 months, the 1-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival (OS) rates were 84%, 62%, and 54%, respectively. The median OS was 61 months for the entire cohort.
Conclusions:
In our study, MM patients aged 40 years or younger at diagnosis showed no superior survival compared to those of the moderately elderly patients based on historical data.
Insights
Young patients with multiple myeloma (MM) diagnosed under age 40 have similar survival rates to older adults. This study details the clinicopathological features and outcomes for this rare MM demographic.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Oncology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Multiple myeloma (MM) predominantly affects older individuals.
- A small subset of patients are diagnosed at a young age (≤40 years).
- Understanding the characteristics of young MM patients is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish the clinicopathological characteristics of multiple myeloma in patients aged 40 years or younger.
- To analyze treatment patterns and survival outcomes in this specific patient group.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records for MM patients diagnosed at age 40 or younger.
- Analysis of demographic, clinical, staging (International Staging System), and treatment data.
- Evaluation of survival rates, including overall survival (OS).
Main Results:
- 32 patients (median age 37) were analyzed; 30% had light chain myeloma.
- Significant rates of anemia (29%), hypercalcemia (28%), and hypoalbuminemia (28%) were observed.
- Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation was utilized in 79%; median OS was 61 months.
Conclusions:
- Multiple myeloma in patients aged 40 or younger does not confer a survival advantage compared to moderately elderly patients.
- The clinicopathological features and outcomes highlight the need for specific considerations in young MM patients.
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