Recurrent cytogenetic abnormalities are noted throughout the course of multiple myeloma (MM) from the premalignant stage of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance to end-stage disease. The prospective, observational study evaluated the frequency of structural and numerical chromosomal abnormalities in a cohort of 118 patients diagnosed with MM from south India using conventional cytogenetics. Chromosomal analysis was carried for both fine needle and bone marrow samples and the karyotypes were interpreted as per the International System for Human Cytogenetic Nomenclature. The  study identified 6 hyperdiploidy, 2  hypodiploidy and 3 pseudoploidy. The most common numerical abnormalities noted were gain of chromosomes 3, 5, 6 ,7, 11, 15, 16, 18, 19 and 21, and loss of 10, 12, 14, 17 and 22. The study validated the role of CC in conducting primary screening of MM, especially in the resource-poor settings and in remote areas with limited diagnostic facilities

Keywords: Chromosomes; Cytogenetics; Karyotype; Multiple Myeloma.