Dr. Larocca on Recent Advancements in R/R Multiple Myeloma

Alessandra Larocca, MD, PhD, hematologist, Division of Hematology, University of Torino, Azienda Ospedaliero‐Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Italy, discusses recent advancements in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma.

The introduction of immunotherapy and anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies have been practice-changing innovations for the elderly relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma patient population, and more monoclonal antibodies are under investigation, Larocca says. These treatments are tolerable in frail patients, and they have achieved improved outcomes in older patients, Larocca explains.

Identifying treatments that do not require a dose adjustment can be a challenge for patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma who present with renal failure, Larocca adds. However, monoclonal antibodies do not need a dose adjustment, making them safer for patients with renal impairment, Larocca says.

Data from clinical trials may be limited for the subgroup of difficult-to-treat patients, making it more difficult to inform treatment decisions, Larocca says. However, it is still helpful to consult these data, in addition to what is seen in clinical practice, Larocca concludes.