[Clinical Analysis of Listeriosis in Treatment of Multiple Myeloma with Novel Agents].

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the clinical characteristics and outcomes of multiple myeloma (MM) patients infected with Listeria monocytogenes (LM) in novel agent era, so as to improve clinicians' understanding.

Methods: Clinical data of 4 MM patients infected with LM in Beijing Chao-yang Hospital from October 2018 to October 2022 was analyzed retrospectively.

Results: The average age of the 4 patients was (57.5±4.1) years old. All the patients did not reach deep remission from induction therapy or experienced multiple recurrences of MM, with significant decreased immunoglobulin levels and lymphocyte counts. The initial clinical manifestation was all fever. Three patients developed nervous system symptoms 2-3 days after onset and cerebrospinal fluid examination indicated meningitis. The sensitive anti-infection agents were given according to pathogenic test results 4-5 days after onset. After treatment, two patients recovered, one patient gave up treatment and died after discharged from hospital, and one critical patient died despite exposure to sensitive antibiotics.

Conclusion: MM patients, with the application of novel agents, may have increased risk of LM infection, even critical cases. LM prevention and prompt therapy in early stage for suspected patients is key to reducing the risk of severe infection and mortality.