Maneuvering the complex web of treatment options for relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma

Abstract

Numerous treatment options are available for patients with early relapsed multiple myeloma. Clinicians should consider using a monoclonal antibody for patients who have not yet received one, or changing either the immunomodulatory drug, the proteasome inhibitor, or both. Clinical trials are another option, or clinicians can refer transplant-naïve patients for autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). For patients with late relapse, a clinical trial is recommended, if possible, but many patients are ineligible due to poor blood cell counts or other factors. Additional treatment options include selinexor combinations, belantamab mafodotin-blmf, melflufen, or CAR T-cell therapy. Salvage ASCT should also be considered for this challenging population.