Correlation between serum lactate dehydrogenase, β₂‐microglobulin, and free light chain levels and prognosis in patients with multiple myeloma

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the correlations between the serum levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), β₂‐microglobulin (β₂‐MG), and free light chains (FLCs) and the prognosis of patients with multiple myeloma (MM).

Method: This retrospective study included 80 patients diagnosed with MM (MM group) at Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University between January 2020 and January 2024, and 100 healthy individuals (control group) undergoing routine physical examinations during the same period. Prognosis was assessed using the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status scale. Patients with a ZPS score > 3 (n = 22) were classified into the poor prognosis (PP) group, while those with a ZPS score ≤ 3 (n = 58) were assigned to the favorable prognosis (FP) group. Serum levels of LDH, β₂‐MG, and FLCs were compared among the three groups, and the relationships between these biomarkers and the clinical characteristics of MM were analyzed.

Results: Of 424 participants the cumulative continuation rates for year 1,2 and 3 were 91.9%, 82.7% and 75% respectively and 106 (25%) removals at the end of year 3. Doctors counselling played role in choosing implant in 177(41.7%) patients. Continuation was higher among women with prior contraceptive knowledge AOR: 3.73; 95% CI (1.20-6.21), previous contraceptive use AOR: 8.1; 95%CI (4.2-31.1), and antenatal counselling AOR: 2.24; 95% CI (1.16-3.54). The most common reasons for discontinuation were side effects in 77(45.2%) and family pressure 55(32.3%) patients. Women with no side effects were 18 times more likely to continue AOR: 18.1; 95% CI (7.5-48).

Conclusion: Elevated serum levels of LDH, β₂‐MG, and FLC are risk factors for poor prognosis in patients with MM. Combined assessment of these three biomarkers may improve clinical evaluation and prognostic stratification.