Kidney disease and multiple myeloma

Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2013 Nov;8(11):2007-17. doi: 10.2215/CJN.12231212. Epub 2013 Jul 18.

Abstract

Kidney injury is a common complication of multiple myeloma and other plasma cell dyscrasias, and it is associated with increased mortality. Multiple pathogenic mechanisms can contribute to kidney injury in the patient with myeloma, some of which are the result of nephrotoxic monoclonal Ig and some of which are independent of paraprotein deposition. The pathogenic mechanisms that underlie paraprotein-related kidney disease are increasingly well understood. A novel assay allowing the quantification of free light chains in the serum has aided the diagnosis of new onset disease and allowed for the earlier detection of relapse. Novel myeloma agents have shown considerable promise in reversing renal failure in some patients and improving outcomes. Stem cell transplantation remains a mainstay of management for younger patients with myeloma who are suitable candidates for intensive therapy, whereas the role of new drugs, plasma exchange, and kidney transplantation continues to evolve.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acute Kidney Injury / diagnosis
  • Acute Kidney Injury / etiology*
  • Acute Kidney Injury / immunology
  • Acute Kidney Injury / therapy
  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins / blood
  • Kidney Transplantation
  • Multiple Myeloma / complications*
  • Multiple Myeloma / diagnosis
  • Multiple Myeloma / immunology
  • Multiple Myeloma / therapy
  • Plasma Exchange
  • Stem Cell Transplantation
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Immunoglobulins