Comparative genomic hybridisation identifies two variants of smoldering multiple myeloma

Abstract

Two variants of smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) have been recognised: (i) an evolving type, characterised by a progressive increase in the M‐protein size and short time to progression to overt multiple myeloma (MM) and (ii) a non‐evolving type, with a long‐lasting, stable M‐protein and longer time to progression. Comparative genomic hybridisation (CGH) analyses in both subtypes of SMM (seven evolving and eight non‐evolving SMM) were performed. Evolving SMM showed cytogenetic changes consistent with those found in de novo symptomatic MM (1q gains, chromosome 13 deletions) while the non‐evolving variant showed no 1q gains and deletions were uncommon.