Multiple myeloma: what's new

With conventional therapy, only 5% of multiple myeloma patients achieve complete response. But in recent clinical trials of high-dose therapy with autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant, complete remission rates of 25-30% can be affected with median survival exceeding 5 years. Newer approaches in clinical trials, including more potent induction regimens utilizing thalidomide, alone or in combination with dexamethasone, are improving treatment outcomes. The authors suggest that potential for a cure now appears to be within reach.