Abstract
Background: Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant plasma cell disorder with significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in aging populations. This study aims to evaluate the demographic, clinical, and prognostic characteristics of MM patients at our institute, assess treatment patterns, and analyze survival outcomes to guide risk-adapted therapeutic strategies.
Methodology: This retrospective observational study was conducted on 255 newly diagnosed MM patients between January 2022 and March 2024. Baseline demographics, clinical features, and biochemical markers were analyzed. Patients were staged according to the Revised International Staging System (R-ISS), and treatment regimens, including autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT), were documented. Survival outcomes, including progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), were assessed. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software (version 24.0). For comparisons, a p value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.
Results: The cohort had a mean age of 55.4 years, with a male predominance (67%). The most common CRAB feature was bone disease. R-ISS stage III disease was seen in 65.1% of patients, with significantly higher relapse rates (80.7%) than stages I (0%) and II (12.2%) (p < 0.001). VRd was the most effective induction regimen, with a relapse rate of 26.7% versus 74.7% for CyBorD (p < 0.001). ASCT significantly reduced relapse rates (9% vs. 62.1%, p < 0.001). Median PFS was 15 months, and survival outcomes favored deeper responses and ASCT.
Conclusion: This study highlights the prognostic impact of R-ISS stage, induction regimens, and ASCT on MM outcomes in the setting of a developing country. VRd-based induction and ASCT improved PFS, emphasizing the need for optimal therapy selection in resource-limited settings.