Treatment of patients with multiple myeloma who are not eligible for stem cell transplantation: position statement of the myeloma foundation of Australia Medical and Scientific Advisory Group

Intern Med J. 2015 Mar;45(3):335-43. doi: 10.1111/imj.12688.

Abstract

Options for treatment of elderly patients with multiple myeloma have expanded substantially following the development of immunomodulatory drugs (IMiD), proteasome inhibitors and with enhancement in safety of high-dose therapy and autologous stem cell transplant (HDT + ASCT). The recognition of biological heterogeneity among elderly patients has made delivery of therapy more challenging. An individualised approach to treatment selection is recommended in an era in which highly efficacious treatment options are available for transplant-ineligible patients. Here, we summarise recommendations for patients who are considered unsuitable for HDT + ASCT, including pretreatment considerations, and induction, maintenance and supportive care therapies.

Keywords: elderly; multiple myeloma; therapy; transplant ineligible.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Advisory Committees / standards*
  • Australia / epidemiology
  • Foundations / standards*
  • Humans
  • Immunologic Factors / therapeutic use
  • Multiple Myeloma / diagnosis
  • Multiple Myeloma / epidemiology*
  • Multiple Myeloma / therapy*
  • Proteasome Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Stem Cell Transplantation*
  • Transplantation, Autologous
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Immunologic Factors
  • Proteasome Inhibitors