Multiple myeloma with deletion of chromosome 13q is characterized by increased bone marrow neovascularization

Anti-angiogenesis therapy with thalidomide has been reported to have marked activity in multiple myeloma (MM). As cytogenetics is an independent progn ostic factor in MM, we analysed bone marrow (BM) angiogenesis and cytogenet ic abnormalities in 34 patients with active MM. BM microvessel density (MVD ), as determined by staining with anti-CD34, was significantly higher in MM (MVD: 221 +/- 94 per mm (2)) than in controls (80 +/- 36; P < 0.0001). In patients with the presence of at least one unfavourable cytogenetic abnorma lity (deletion of 13q14, deletion of 17p13, aberrations of 11q), a signific antly increased BM MVD was observed (254 +/- 93 vs. 160 +/- 60 in patients with absence of these abnormalities; P = 0.0035). Further analyses indicate d that increased BM MVD was significantly correlated with deletion of 13q14 (259 +/- 96 vs. 188 +/- 80; P = 0.026), but not with other cytogenetic, cl inical and laboratory MM parameters. We conclude that BM neovascularization is particularly high in MM with deletion of 13q14, which provides a ration ale for use of anti-angiogenic strategies in the treatment of MM with high- risk cytogenetics.