Dual Genetic Testing Improves Risk Prediction in Multiple Myeloma Patients

A groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at The Institute of Cancer Research in London has revealed that combining DNA and RNA testing significantly enhances the ability to identify multiple myeloma patients at higher risk of early relapse. This innovative approach could revolutionize how the disease is diagnosed and treated, potentially leading to more personalized care for patients.

Enhanced Risk Prediction Through Combined Genetic Testing

The research team, led by Professor Martin Kaiser, discovered that a dual genetic test is more accurate than traditional methods in predicting which multiple myeloma patients are at an elevated risk of relapsing within 18 months of treatment. The study, published in the journal Blood, analyzed data from 135 patients who participated in the Myeloma XI study and received identical treatment regimens.

Results showed that 18.5% of patients experienced a relapse within 18 months following a stem cell transplant. Remarkably, the combined genetic testing approach accurately predicted 84% of these early relapses, with only two patients having a truly unexpected early relapse.

Professor Kaiser, who serves as a professor in molecular hematology at The Institute of Cancer Research and consultant hematologist at The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, stated, "Our findings show that RNA-based testing can uncover hidden risks in multiple myeloma that DNA tests alone miss. By combining DNA profiling with RNA-based testing, we could change how we diagnose and treat the disease, allowing us to personalize care and intervene earlier for patients at greatest risk."

Advancements in Multiple Myeloma Testing Methodologies

The study compared two distinct genetic testing approaches:

1. Traditional DNA profiling: This method examines specific genetic changes in cancer cells typically associated with worse outcomes.

2. Gene expression profiling: This RNA-based test assesses the activity levels of certain genes and can identify high-risk patients that might be overlooked by other tests.

By combining these two testing methodologies, researchers were able to achieve a more comprehensive and accurate risk assessment for multiple myeloma patients. This dual approach has the potential to significantly improve patient care by enabling earlier interventions and more tailored treatment strategies.

Multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer that primarily affects individuals over 75, impacts approximately 33,000 people in the UK. While the condition is generally not curable, patients often experience periods of remission and stability. However, relapses are common, necessitating ongoing monitoring and management.

The findings from this study represent a significant step forward in the field of multiple myeloma research and treatment. As the pharmaceutical industry continues to advance personalized medicine approaches, innovative diagnostic tools like this dual genetic test may play a crucial role in improving patient outcomes and guiding treatment decisions.