Non-secretory multiple myeloma with unusual TFG-ALK fusion showed dramatic response to ALK inhibition

Non-secretory multiple myeloma (NSMM) constitutes a distinct entity of multiple myeloma characterized by the absence of detectable monoclonal protein and rarely an absence of free light chains in the serum and urine. Given its rarity, the genomic landscape, clinical course, and prognosis of NSSM are not well characterized. Here, we report a case of a patient with relapsed and refractory NSMM with brain metastasis harboring a TFG-ALK fusion showing a dramatic and durable (over two years) response to commercially available anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitors. The case emphasizes the beneficial role of molecular profiling in this target-poor disease.

Automated summary

Non-secretory multiple myeloma (NSMM) is a distinct type of multiple myeloma characterized by the absence of detectable monoclonal protein. A case study reported here showed a relapsed and refractory NSMM patient with TFG-ALK fusion and brain metastasis had a dramatic and durable response to commercially available ALK inhibitors, highlighting the beneficial role of molecular profiling in this target-poor disease.