Prognostic Value of B-2 Microglobulin and Interleukin-6 in Multiple Myeloma

Background: Prognostic markers of multiple myeloma (MM) are still in the process of research, so therapeutic approach is still inadequate for an individual patient. Other prognostic markers for example hemoglobin level, serum calcium, serum creatinine, and severity of bone lesions are of exceeding importance, but are not as simple as standard methods. Worldwide interleukin-6 is known major growth factor for myeloma cells. beta 2-M is present on the surface of plasma cells. It is also found in increased quantities in the serum and in other fluids from individuals with myeloma. Methods: A survival analysis carried out in 244 MM patients at diagnosis, samples were collected from all over Pakistan. Serum IL-6 levels were evaluated on commercially available quantikine ELISA human IL-6 immunoassay (Thermo scientific) (USA). Serum beta 2-M levels were evaluated on commercially available enzyme immunoassay (quantitative) beta 2-M (Bio Check, Inc) (USA). Results: Mean serum beta 2-M level was 4.02 mu g/l (Reference range 0-2.0 mu g/l) and mean IL-6 level was 269.3 (Reference range 0-149pg/ml). According to results and outcome of disease process three groups suggested, patients with beta 2-M ranges in between 1-2 and IL-6 10-100 (Group I), patients with beta 2-M ranges in between 2.1-3 and IL-6 100.1-200 (Group II), patients with beta 2-M ranges in between 3.1-4 or more and IL-6 200.1-300 or more (Group III). Conclusion: beta 2-M correlates with tumor mass and IL-6 correlates with tumor cell growth, their lower serum levels correlates with a better prognosis, with a longer remission and survival, and higher serum level correlates with poor prognosis.