Optimizing Treatment Sequencing for Patients With Relapsed/ Refractory Multiple Myeloma

Discover new developments in sequential treatment and clinical findings, evaluate strategies to manage and monitor adverse events, and initiating therapy for patients with relapsed/refractory Multiple Myeloma, and much more! Leading oncologist Shaji Kumar, Mayo Clinic Cancer Center, presents this in-depth discussion. Start the activity now!

STATEMENT OF NEED

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a B-cell neoplasm characterized by aberrant expansion of plasma cells within the bone marrow and extramedullary sites (eg, cortical bone). Approximately 32,270 new cases of MM are expected to occur in the United States this year, and around 12,830 people are likely to die of the disease (ACS, 2020). Although the tumor cells remain primarily within the bone marrow, they can cause a number of complications, including localized bone destruction, anemia, decreased immunity to infection, and kidney damage. Multiple myeloma is primarily considered a disease of older adults, with a median age at diagnosis of 69 years (NCCN, 2020). The incidence is expected to continue to rise in conjunction with the aging population. Early diagnosis is difficult because symptoms often do not appear until the malignancy is in advanced stages. The 5-year relative survival rate remains only 53.9% (NCI, 2020). For the majority of patients who relapse, treatment is complex, and outcomes worsen with each relapse (Siegel et al, 2020).

TARGET AUDIENCE

Hematologist/oncologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, oncology nurses, and other health care professionals involved in the treatment of patients with MM.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this activity, participants should be able to:

Distinguish criteria for biochemical vs clinical relapse in MM and indications for therapy
Assess recent clinical trial findings on novel sequential treatment approaches for relapsed/refractory MM, including maintenance options
Evaluate strategies to monitor and manage adverse events associated with novel therapies for relapsed/refractory MM