Multiple myeloma (management of newly diagnosed patients): literature review and our on data. Part II

Over the last decades, survival rates for young patients with multiple myeloma markedly increased mainly due to the use of autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) and new highly efficacious rescue therapies. In patients with multiple myeloma over 65 years of age, a combination of melphalan and prednisone (MP) is traditionally used. Introduction of novel agents such as immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) and proteasome inhibitors substantially changed the therapeutic approach to the disease. Many double-, triple-, and quadruple-agent combinations were studied in the patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma. It was established that the achievement of complete response (CR) is an independent predictor of prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). The data from prospective trials completed suggest that the best available strategy to achieve high CR rates and prolong its duration includes an induction therapy with a triple-agent bortezomib- or IMiDs-based regimen followed by ASCT and consolidation/maintenance with IMiDs or proteasome inhibitors. The vast majority of elderly patients with MM are ineligible for ASCT. Introduction of novel agents such as thalidomide, bortezomib, or lenalidomide considerably improved the treatment outcomes. MPT (MP + thalidomide), VMP (MP + bortezomib), and MPR-R (MP + lenalidomide) regimens are currently regarded as the new standards of care for elderly patients with multiple myeloma. The prognosis for multiple myeloma is determined by numerous factors, all of which should be considered when choosing the initial therapy. This review covers the new strategies based on the current studies being conducted that are aimed at optimizing treatment outcomes in the patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma.