Which protein is commonly linked with the prognosis of multiple myeloma?

Beta2-microglobulin is a small protein that is part of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecule, and it plays a crucial role in immune system function. In the context of multiple myeloma, elevated levels of beta2-microglobulin are associated with a poorer prognosis. This protein is often released into the blood by malignant plasma cells, and its levels correlate with tumor burden and disease activity.

Medical research has shown that higher levels of beta2-microglobulin correlate with more advanced stages of multiple myeloma and can be utilized to predict outcomes. Specifically, it's commonly used in staging systems for multiple myeloma, such as the International Staging System (ISS), which classes patients based on serum levels of beta2-microglobulin among other factors.

In contrast, although other markers like CA 15-3, LDH, and CEA have their own clinical significance in various diseases, they are not specific indicators for prognosis in multiple myeloma. Each of those markers can reflect other pathological processes or types of cancer, but beta2-microglobulin stands out as a key prognostic indicator specifically for multiple myeloma, making it essential for assessing disease progression and treatment response