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Bone marrow angiogenesis and progression in multiple myeloma
A Vacca1, D Ribatti, L Roncali
1Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Medical School, Italy.
British Journal of Haematology
|July 1, 1994
Summary
Tumour growth relies on new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis). This study found increased bone marrow angiogenesis correlates with higher plasma cell proliferation in multiple myeloma (MM) and monoclonal gammopathies of undetermined significance (MGUS), suggesting it
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Haematology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Tumour growth is dependent on angiogenesis.
- Multiple myeloma (MM) and monoclonal gammopathies of undetermined significance (MGUS) are plasma cell disorders.
- Bone marrow angiogenesis plays a role in disease progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between bone marrow angiogenesis and plasma cell proliferation in MM and MGUS.
- To assess the association of angiogenesis with disease activity and progression.
- To evaluate angiogenesis as a potential prognostic marker.
Main Methods:
- Quantification of bone marrow angiogenesis via microvessel area.
- Assessment of plasma cell proliferation using labelling index (LI).
- Correlation analysis between microvessel area, LI, and disease status (active vs. non-active MM/MGUS).
Main Results:
- High correlation found between bone marrow microvessel area and plasma cell labelling index in MM and MGUS.
- Angiogenesis was significantly associated with active disease.
- Higher microvessel area correlated with rapidly progressive MM and increased risk of active disease.
Conclusions:
- A causal relationship between plasma cell growth, disease activity, and bone marrow angiogenesis is suggested.
- Measurement of bone marrow angiogenesis may serve as a useful prognostic marker for plasma cell proliferative disorders.
- Angiogenesis is a key factor in the progression of multiple myeloma.