Stem cell transplantation for multiple myeloma: current and future status

High-dose melphalan with autologous stem cell support has been an integral part of myeloma therapy for more than 25 years either as salvage therapy or as consolidation of an initial remission. Although multiple phase III trials have demonstrated that this therapy results in higher response rates and longer remission duration than conventional chemotherapy the use of thalidomide, lenalidomide and bortezomib as induction therapy have limited the clinical relevance of these trials. In this manuscript, we will summarize the results of ongoing and recently published clinical trials and describe how they have impacted current transplant recommendations, and their relevance to the treatment of myeloma patients in developing countries.