Allogeneic stem cell transplantation for multiple myeloma

Prospective trials comparing tandem autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) with ASCT followed by allogeneic stem cell transplantation (AlloSCT) have shown mixed results with regard to progression-free and overall survival rates. Thus, AlloSCT, although a potentially curative treatment, is not regarded as a standard treatment for multiple myeloma by most experts in the field. Strategies to improve the therapeutic index of the conditioning regimens have the potential to improve outcomes. Other approaches to modulate graft-versus-host disease while preserving or improving a graft-versus-myeloma effect could elevate AlloSCT to mainstream treatment. These approaches include vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, and adoptive immunotherapies.