Prognostic Impact of Bone Marrow Plasma Cell Percentage in Patients With Systemic Light-Chain Amyloidosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Eur J Haematol. 2026 Jun;116(6):826-834. doi: 10.1111/ejh.70138. Epub 2026 Feb 11.

Abstract

The prognostic value of bone marrow plasma cell percentage (BMPC%) in systemic light-chain (AL) amyloidosis remains controversial. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the association between BMPC% ≥ 10% and survival outcomes in patients with AL amyloidosis. We systematically searched multiple databases for studies published through September 2025. Ten studies involving 5322 patients were included. A BMPC% ≥ 10% was significantly associated with poorer OS (pooled HR = 1.35, 95% CI [1.13, 1.62], p = 0.001) and PFS (pooled HR = 1.63, 95% CI [1.29, 2.04], p < 0.001). Consistently, patients with BMPC% ≥10% had significantly shorter mean OS (MD = -31.79 months, 95% CI [-43.22, -20.36], p < 0.0001) and mean PFS (MD = -16.12 months, 95% CI [-40.69, -1.54], p < 0.0001). Significant heterogeneity was observed, for which study design was identified as a major source. Evidence of publication bias was present. This meta-analysis provides robust evidence that a BMPC% ≥ 10% is an independent predictor of inferior OS and PFS in AL amyloidosis. Integrating this readily available biomarker with existing cardiac-based staging systems could enhance risk stratification and inform clinical decision-making.

Keywords: bone marrow plasma cell percentage; meta‐analysis; overall survival; progression‐free survival; systemic light‐chain amyloidosis.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers
  • Bone Marrow Cells* / metabolism
  • Bone Marrow Cells* / pathology
  • Bone Marrow* / pathology
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin Light-chain Amyloidosis* / diagnosis
  • Immunoglobulin Light-chain Amyloidosis* / mortality
  • Immunoglobulin Light-chain Amyloidosis* / pathology
  • Immunoglobulin Light-chain Amyloidosis* / therapy
  • Plasma Cells* / metabolism
  • Plasma Cells* / pathology
  • Prognosis

Substances

  • Biomarkers