Serum beta-2-microglobulin, TNF-α and interleukins in myeloproliferative disorders

Whereas beta‐2‐microglobulin (β2M) has mainly been used as a prognostic factor in patients with lymphoproliferative disorders, some studies have reported the value of β2M in myeloproliferative disorders (MPD). In order to investigate a potential role in the pathogenesis of MPD and to find a possible value as indicators in monitoring the course of the disease, we measured β2M, TNF‐α, IL‐1α, IL‐1β, IL‐2, sIL‐2R, IL‐6 and IL‐10 in 55 patients with MPD, at diagnosis and during the course of the disease. In progressive disease and particularly when transformation to acute leukemia occurred, high levels of β2M, IL‐2 and sIL‐2R were found in all patients; the elevation was progressive, which suggests a potential prognostic usefulness in the individual patient.