The changing landscape of multiple myeloma: implications for oncology nurses.

Scientific advancements relative to diagnostic evaluation, risk-adapted treatment selection, and supportive care strategies for multiple myeloma (MM) have been developed in the past decade, which provides hope for patients living with MM. However, the disease remains incurable for the majority of patients, and continued clinical trials are necessary to refine existing therapeutic strategies and develop new approaches to treatment. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), in particular autologous HSCT, remains an important component in the overall treatment paradigm for MM. This requires a well-organized team approach with ongoing communications and collaboration with community providers and other specialists. The majority of care for patients with MM is provided in the outpatient setting, relying on the active participation of both the patient and caregiver(s) for successful clinical outcomes. This supplement is prepared by members of the International Myeloma Foundation Nurse Leadership Board, which is dedicated to improving the care of patients with MM and their caregivers. The introduction serves to provide an overview of MM today and to summarize the articles included in this supplement.