New prognostic systems for multiple myeloma in the context of contemporary therapies.

Recent clinical trials in both transplant-eligible and -ineligible newly diagnosed multiple myeloma using 3- and 4-drug combinations have demonstrated unprecedented levels of response. However, 2 recently published studies redefining high risk in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma in the context of these newer and more effective treatments demonstrate that a significant minority of patients likely derive little benefit from these newer approaches. These new prognostic systems thus provide an evidence-based framework for the development of much-needed risk-stratified clinical trials.