Therapeutic advancements in multiple myeloma

Abstract

Multiple myeloma survival has significantly improved in the latest years, due to a broad spectrum of novel agents available for treatment. The introduction of thalidomide, bortezomib and lenalidomide together with autologous stem cell transplantation has considerably increased complete remission rate and progression free survival resulting ultimately in prolonged survival in myeloma patients. Moreover, novel strategies of treatment such as consolidation and maintenance are being used to further implement responses. Finally, a number of new drugs such as carfilzomib and pomalidomide are already in clinical practice, making the future of myeloma patients brighter. © 2014 Gozzetti, Candi, Papini and Bocchia.