Bortezomib: a new therapeutic option for POEMS syndrome.
OBJECTIVE
POEMS syndrome with its classical five findings (Polyneuropathy, Organomegaly, Endocrinopathy, M protein, and Skin changes) is a rare multisystem disease. Proinflammatory and proangiogenic cytokines play important roles in its pathogenesis. Treatment options are still debated.


METHODS
We present a 65-year-old man with POEMS syndrome who was successfully treated with bortezomib.


RESULTS
After seven cycles of this protocol, serum M protein level declined to normal range, and near-to-complete remission was achieved. His symptoms of polyneuropathy improved dramatically.


CONCLUSIONS
Bortezomib may be an effective and safe therapeutic option for patients with POEMS syndrome.
Kaygusuz
Isik
I
Department of Hematology, Marmara University School of Medicine, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey. isikkaygusuz@yahoo.com
Tezcan
Hakan
H
Cetiner
Mustafa
M
Kocakaya
Ozan
O
Uzay
Ant
A
Bayik
Mahmut
M
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D001897:Boronic Acids / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D000069286:Bortezomib; D006023:Glycoproteins / Q000097:blood; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D016878:POEMS Syndrome / Q000097:blood / Q000188:drug therapy*; D011719:Pyrazines / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D012074:Remission Induction
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D001897:Boronic Acids; D006023:Glycoproteins; D011719:Pyrazines; C023587:protein M (glycoprotein); D000069286:Bortezomib