Targeted therapy and maintenance in myeloma

Abstract

Introduction

Maintenance therapy aims to extend progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), but the convenience of administration, tolerability and toxicity are essentials.

Source of data

A search was conducted to identify published literature and clinical studies about maintenance for multiple myeloma using PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov.

Areas of agreement

There are different drug classes able to ensure durable responses previously achieved after induction followed or not by transplant, translating into a significant benefit in PFS and OS.

Areas of controversy

It is not well established the optimal maintenance approach, what the ideal duration of maintenance is, and whether all patients have to receive maintenance therapy.

Growing points

To define the role of risk factors and minimal residual disease monitoring for tailored maintenance.

Areas timely for developing research

The development of new therapies and monitoring strategies able to individualize the maintenance to prevent both under and overtreatment.

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