OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects and safety of the regimen of bortezomib 
combined with dexamethasone (VD) in the treatment of primary systemic (AL) 
amyloidosis.
METHODS: Five newly diagnosed AL amyloidosis patients confirmed by renal biopsy 
with a median of 3 organs involved (3 to 5 organs) were treated by VD regimen 
for 3 (1-4) cycles.
RESULTS: Among 3 evaluable patients, 1 was in stable condition and 2 had 
hematologic response (partial remission and complete remission) and organ 
function improvement. Hematologic responses were rapid (median 1.5 cycles) and 
median time to organ response was 2 cycles. Three cases were survived and the 
periods of follow up were 5, 4 and 4 months respectively. The other 2 died 2 and 
14 months after diagnosis. The side effects were asthenia, diarrhea, 
constipation, edema aggravation and fever, all of which were in I grade. No 
treatment associating death was found.
CONCLUSION: VD regimen might be an efficient, rapid effective and safe regimen 
in the treatment of AL amyloidosis.