Correlation of Mast Cell Density With Angiogenic Cytokines in Patients With Active Multiple Myeloma

Abstract Purpose The aim of the study is to estimate whether bone marrow mast cell density (MCD) in multiple myeloma (MM) correlates with circulating levels of various angiogenic factors. Methods In 70 patients with newly diagnosed active MM, we measured MCD using immunohistochemical stain for tryptase and serum levels of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), angiopoietin 2 (ANGIOP-2), and angiogenin (ANG) with ELISA. Findings Levels of MCD, ANGIOP-2, and ANG were significantly higher in MM patients compared with the control group. The MMP-9 level was higher in MM patients compared with the control group but without statistical significance. All values were increasing in parallel with clinical stages. Furthermore, MCD correlated positively with MMP-9, ANGIOP-2, and ANG. Implications MCs participate in the angiogenic processes of MM, with complex implicated mechanisms. This interplay between MCs and the other participants favors angiogenesis and MM growth.