Treatment options.

There is no known cures multiple myeloma. However, there are methods to decrease the occurrence and severity of symptoms and prolong life. The therapy is decided based upon the patient's condition and the cancer management team, made with the patient's input. The team will likely involve both a medical specialist in the treatment of myeloma called a medical oncologist, as well as a radiation oncologist and other consultants as appropriate. Oncology trained nurses and other personnel will likely be important members of the treatment team.

The choices for treatment(s) often include combinations drugs, some of which are given as pills and others by intravenous injection. These include drugs which affect or modulate the immune system, steroids, and some oral or injectable chemotherapy drugs. These are usually used in combinations. There may be a role for high-dose chemotherapy followed by the administration of bone marrow stem cells called a stem cell transplant. Numerous factors come into play in determining whether or not to do such a transplant. Further information may be obtained from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guidelines (NCCN.org) which are updated at least yearly.

Painful areas of bone damage may be treated with radiation therapy. Broken bones can be surgically repaired in many cases.

There are many drugs used to treat multiple myeloma. Research is ongoing and newer drugs are being investigated and used for treatment with some frequency. For example, a clinical trial in 2013 reported that lenalidomide (Revlimid) produced a significant increase in the survival of individuals newly diagnosed multiple myeloma. Most doctors who specialize in cancer treatment will be aware of the newest treatments for multiple myeloma.