[Effectivity of thalidomide and dexamethasone for the treatment of refractory multiple myeloma: a retrospective study of 36 consecutive cases].
OBJECTIVE
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasm-cell neoplasm characterized by a monoclonal protein in the serum or urine. Thalidomide is effective as second line treatment.


METHODS
We performed a retrospective study of 36 consecutive patients with refractory MM treated with thalidomide and dexamethasone as second line therapy, with the objective of analyzing the rate of response (primary end point), progression-free survival (PFS) and toxicity profiles (second end points).


RESULTS
In our study the overall response rate was 55.6%, with a median of PFS of 12.6 months (95% confidence interval: 4-21 months). PFS at 6, 12 and 18 months was 61.11%, 50% and 22.22% respectively. 30.6% of the patients had neuropathy, 11.11% had rash and 5.55% had deep vein thrombosis.


CONCLUSIONS
The combination of thalidomide and dexamethasone is an effective and safe second line treatment for refractory MM, with a manageable toxicity.
Khosravi Shahi
Parham
P
Servicio de Oncología Médica, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid. España.
Díaz Muñoz de la Espada
Víctor Manuel
VM
Sabin Domínguez
Pilar
P
Encinas García
Sara
S
Arranz Arija
José Angel
JA
Carrión Galindo
José Rafael
JR
Pérez Manga
Gumersindo
G
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003907:Dexamethasone / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009101:Multiple Myeloma / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013792:Thalidomide / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D013792:Thalidomide; D003907:Dexamethasone