[Role of glucocorticoids in the treatment of multiple myeloma].
Glucocorticoids are frequently used for the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM), more often in association with other cytotoxic drugs than in monotherapy. The aim of our analysis was to appreciate the true interest of these agents and to evaluate their best indications and prescription modalities. For this purpose, we have analysed clinical trials evaluating the anti-tumoral effects of glucocorticoids in MM. It appears that there are no published data demonstrating the usefulness of low-dose corticoids like prednisone or prednisolone in the treatment of MM. However, high-dose steroids like dexamethasone or methylprednisolone had proven their clearcut anti-tumoral action. Nevertheless, controlled studies are necessary to show the real benefit of such treatment on MM patient survival. This study underlines the two potential indications of high-dose glucocorticoids for MM treatment: (i) for previously unresponsive disease (patients who clearly progress with initial therapy), (ii) for previously untreated patients more than 65 years old.
Juge-Morineau
N
N
Service d'Hématologie, Hôtel-Dieu et Institut de Biologie, Nantes.
Harousseau
J L
JL
Bataille
R
R
D018906:Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating; D004351:Drug Resistance; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D009101:Multiple Myeloma / Q000188:drug therapy*
D018906:Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating; D005938:Glucocorticoids