Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma is characterized by the proliferation of malignant plasma cells, a type of lymphocyte normally found in bone marrow. Healthy plasma cells typically produce antibodies and the abnormal M-protein produced in multiple myeloma can contribute to impaired immune function and kidney damage. Myeloma cells also accumulate and form masses in bone marrow and soft tissue.
Treatment for multiple myeloma focuses on decreasing the clonal plasma cell count and remission or stable disease is feasible with high-dose chemotherapy and stem cell transplant. Although current treatments prolong survival, they are not curative, which is where minimal residual disease has proved useful in predicting relapse and monitoring remission status. Minimal residual disease is the small numbers of plasma cells that remain in circulation during treatment or while the patient is in remission. For those where initial treatment is very successful and who achieve undetectable minimal residual disease at a sensitivity of 10-6, the risk of relapse is low and patients have been shown to have longer overall survival.
This Future Oncology collection compiles articles focusing on newly diagnosed multiple myeloma, possible treatment strategies and how minimal residual disease fits into the therapeutic landscape for myeloma and lymphocytic leukemia. Read up on the future of minimal residual disease as a surrogate for cure in multiple myeloma and how this treatment framework, along with more effective later line therapy options, promises to improve outcomes for patients.
