Background and 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.
Patients and method: 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.