While there is no cure, multiple myeloma treatment options are available, with new methods emerging every year. Oncologists use a combination of factors and therapies to create a personalized treatment plan. Each treatment plan is designed to help individuals manage the disease, alleviate symptoms, and improve their quality of life. Knowing what to expect and what options are available can help you work with your oncology team and make informed decisions about your medical care.
Multiple myeloma is a diverse group of diseases. Oncologists need to make an accurate diagnosis and design an appropriate treatment plan. The oncology team will order blood tests, bone marrow biopsies, and detailed imaging scans. These tests help determine the extent of the disease and allow the oncologist to select the most appropriate treatment plan.
Once they confirm the diagnosis, the oncologist will discuss available treatment options and outline a strategy tailored to the patient's condition goals. These goals will often include the following guidelines:
For newly diagnosed patients with multiple myeloma, the oncology team will follow a standard of care called induction therapy. After induction therapy, the oncologist will determine if the patient is eligible for an autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT). Then, treatment will continue through maintenance and supportive care.
Induction therapy is the front-line method that oncologists use in multiple myeloma treatment. According to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, this stage in treatment typically consists of a three-drug or four-drug combination regiment given over three to four cycles. The treatment cycles typically last 3 to 4 weeks.
The initial treatment method depends on a variety of factors. These include the features of the patient's myeloma, the risk of side effects, and personal preferences. The oncologist will also need to determine if the patient is a candidate for high-dose chemotherapy followed by an autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT). If they are eligible and decide to proceed with the transplant, they will undergo induction therapy followed by stem cell collection and storage, high-dose melphalan chemotherapy, and ASCT. The patient will then receive maintenance treatment.
If the patient is not eligible for ASCT, they will go directly from induction therapy to maintenance treatment. However, the timing will depend on their response to induction therapy. The oncology team will help determine which course of treatment is best for them based on their needs and treatment goals.
For eligible patients, oncologists often recommend ASCT after induction therapy. During this procedure, healthy stem cells are collected from the patient for immediate or future use. The oncologist then administers high-dose chemotherapy to eliminate any remaining myeloma cells. Finally, they will reinfuse the harvested stem cells to restore the function of the patient's bone marrow. ASCT, when combined with high-dose chemotherapy, offers a very good opportunity for a long-lasting response.
This stage of multiple myeloma treatment includes lower doses of medications such as immunomodulatory drugs or targeted therapies. The oncologist will monitor the patient's response to maintenance therapy through regular blood tests, bone marrow biopsies, and imaging tests to track the progression of the disease. Long-term monitoring and follow-up care can help patients and their doctors manage their multiple myeloma and detect any signs of recurrence. Patients will have regular follow-up appointments with their oncologist to assess their response to treatment and adjust the plan if necessary.
Some patient's multiple myeloma is resistant to therapy (refractory) or may return after remission (relapsed). Fortunately, there are many effective treatment options for this type of multiple myeloma. These methods are based on the number of prior myeloma treatments already received and that no longer work. Some treatments are used for patients with three or fewer previous treatments (referred to as being in early relapse), while other treatments are used for patients with more than three previous therapies. Certain factors, such as prior ASCT, aggressiveness of relapse, and prior treatments, will determine the type of refractory or relapsed multiple myeloma treatment.
Multiple myeloma treatment can cause side effects that vary from person to person. Common side effects include:
It is important for patients to regularly communicate their concerns and experiences with their oncology team during their treatment to mitigate the effects on their overall quality of life. The oncologist may prescribe supportive medications to alleviate these symptoms and recommend lifestyle adjustments to improve overall well-being.
Multiple myeloma treatment is a multifaceted process that requires careful planning and ongoing professional medical guidance. Do you have questions about Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center 's treatment options? Call our Marlton office to learn more or to schedule a consultation.
Request an appointment here: https://lindenbergcancer.com or call Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center at (856) 475-0876 for an appointment in our Marlton office.
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