Novel approaches to the management of myeloma

Standard therapy for multiple myeloma, which accounts for 10% of all hematologic malignancies, has been autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT), alkylator-based chemotherapy, and corticosteroids. Several advances have been made in the treatment of multiple myeloma over the past decade, especially the arrival of new, active agents such as thalidomide (Thalomid), bortezomib (Velcade), and lenalidomide (Revlimid). These have shown significant clinical activity as single agents. Trials are ongoing to incorporate these new agents into the various stages of treatment and to combine them with other effective treatment modalities, including ASCT.