PRIOR CONCURRENT THERAPY: Biologic therapy: Not specified Chemotherapy: No prior chemotherapy for multiple myeloma Endocrine therapy: No more than 1 course of prior pulse dexamethasone Prior steroids of less than 1 month duration for emergent indications or life-threatening lesions (e.g., hypercalcemia or spinal cord compromise) allowed Radiotherapy: Prior radiotherapy allowed Surgery: Not specified