Incidence, Clinical Features, and Prognostic Value of New-Onset Renal Impairment in Multiple Myeloma

Xiang Liu1,2,3, Qian Hu1,2,3, Yuhuan Zheng1,2,3

  • 1Department of Hematology, Institute of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.

Cancer Medicine
|November 5, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

New-onset renal impairment (RI) affects 16.6% of multiple myeloma (MM) patients and is a significant risk factor for mortality. Early identification and prevention strategies are crucial for improving MM patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Hematology
  • Nephrology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Previous research on multiple myeloma (MM) primarily focused on renal impairment (RI) at diagnosis.
  • Limited studies have investigated the incidence and impact of new-onset RI after MM diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence and clinical characteristics of new-onset RI in MM patients.
  • To evaluate the predictive value of new-onset RI for mortality risk in MM.

Main Methods:

  • A multicenter retrospective cohort study included 1953 newly diagnosed MM patients.
  • RI was defined as serum creatinine >2 mg/dL or creatinine clearance <40 mL/min/1.73m².
  • Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazard models assessed mortality risk.

Main Results:

  • 16.6% of MM patients developed new-onset RI, mostly within 2 years of diagnosis.
  • New-onset RI significantly reduced overall survival (OS) and was an independent mortality risk factor (HR 1.55).
  • Older age, higher ISS stage, and RI at diagnosis were risk factors for new-onset RI; PI and IMiD combination therapy lowered RI risk.

Conclusions:

  • New-onset RI is common in MM patients and significantly increases mortality risk.
  • Early detection of high-risk individuals and prompt intervention are vital for improving MM prognosis.
  • Recovery of renal function was associated with improved OS.

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