Minimal Residual Disease in Multiple Myeloma: an Important Tool in Clinical Trials

Minimal residual disease (MRD) detection represents a great advancement in multiple myeloma. New drugs are now available that increase depth of response. The International Myeloma Working Group recommends using next-generation flow cytometry (NGF) or next-generation sequencing (NGS) to search for MRD in clinical trials. Best sensitivity thresholds have to be confirmed, as well as timing to detect it. MRD has proven as the best prognosticator in many trials and promises to enter also in clinical practice to guide future therapy.