Prediction of survival by levels of normal and neoplastic plasma cells immediately after transplantation.

Levels of normal and neoplastic plasma cells immediately after transplantation provide a powerful prediction of both progression-free and overall survival. Kaplan-Meier analyses of progression-free and overall survival for 2 groups of patients according to levels of neoplastic and normal plasma cells are shown. Patients who have only normal cells after transplantation and who sustain this recovery have a significantly improved progression-free and overall survival. Those who have neoplastic plasma cells present after transplantation, or who recover normal plasma cells by 3 months after transplantation but who have no normal plasma cells present at 6 to 12 months, have poor progression-free and overall survival. Survival is shown from time of transplantation.