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Genetic research

Dual Genetic Test Improves Risk Prediction for Multiple Myeloma Patients

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— 1 min read

Researchers at The Institute of Cancer Research have identified a more accurate testing method to predict which multiple myeloma patients are at a higher risk of relapse. By combining traditional DNA profiling with RNA gene expression testing, doctors can identify high-risk patients who may relapse within 18 months of treatment. This approach has the potential to personalize care and intervene earlier for patients at greatest risk. The research team analyzed data from 135 patients who participated in the Myeloma XI study and found that 84% of early relapses could have been predicted using the dual genetic test.

Key Takeaways:

  • A dual genetic test, combining DNA profiling with RNA gene expression testing, significantly improves risk prediction for multiple myeloma patients (Source: Blood).
  • The test can identify high-risk patients who may relapse within 18 months of treatment, allowing for earlier intervention (Source: Blood).
  • The researchers analyzed data from 135 patients who participated in the Myeloma XI study and found that 18.5% of patients relapsed within 18 months after a stem cell transplant (Source: Blood).
  • 84% of early relapses could have been predicted using the dual genetic test, while just two patients had a truly unexpected early relapse (Source: Blood).
  • The traditional method for seeking out relapse risk is done via DNA profiling, while the gene expression profiling test checks how active certain genes are (Source: Blood).
  • Professor Martin Kaiser, study leader, stated that RNA-based testing can uncover hidden risks in multiple myeloma that DNA tests alone miss (Source: Blood).
  • The researchers believe that combining DNA profiling with RNA-based testing could change how we diagnose and treat the disease, allowing for personalized care and earlier intervention (Source: Blood).

Statistics:

  • 135 patients participated in the Myeloma XI study (Source: Blood)
  • 18.5% of patients relapsed within 18 months after a stem cell transplant (Source: Blood)
  • 84% of early relapses could have been predicted using the dual genetic test (Source: Blood)
  • 33,000 people are affected by multiple myeloma in the U.K. (Source: Blood)
  • Multiple myeloma typically affects people over 75 (Source: Blood)

Sources:

  • Blood (Journal publication)
  • Professor Martin Kaiser, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, and consultant hematologist at The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust.

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