Molecular and biologic markers of progression in monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance to multiple myeloma

Leuk Lymphoma. 2010 Dec;51(12):2159-70. doi: 10.3109/10428194.2010.525725. Epub 2010 Oct 20.

Abstract

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant plasma cell dyscrasia localized in the bone marrow. Recent studies have shown that MM is preceded in virtually all cases by a premalignant state called monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). This review focuses on non-IgM MGUS and its progression to MM. Although certain clinical markers of MGUS progression have been identified, it currently is not possible to accurately determine individual risk of progression. This review focuses on the various biologic and molecular markers that could be used to determine the risk of MM progression. A better understanding of the pathogenesis will allow us to define the biological high-risk precursor disease and, ultimately, to develop early intervention strategies designed to delay and prevent full-blown MM.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor / analysis
  • Biomarkers, Tumor / genetics
  • Biomarkers, Tumor / physiology*
  • Cytogenetic Analysis / methods
  • Disease Progression
  • Genomics / methods
  • Humans
  • Molecular Diagnostic Techniques
  • Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance / diagnosis*
  • Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance / genetics
  • Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance / metabolism
  • Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance / pathology*
  • Multiple Myeloma / diagnosis*
  • Multiple Myeloma / genetics
  • Multiple Myeloma / metabolism
  • Multiple Myeloma / pathology
  • Precancerous Conditions / diagnosis
  • Precancerous Conditions / genetics
  • Precancerous Conditions / metabolism
  • Precancerous Conditions / pathology
  • Prognosis

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor