Dr. Lonial on Emerging Concepts in Multiple Myeloma Treatment

Sagar Lonial, MD, FACP, professor and chair in the Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology of Emory University School of Medicine and chief medical officer of Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, discusses some of the remaining challenges to address in the multiple myeloma space.

Oftentimes, investigators spend as much time as they can analyzing the disease, observing until they obtain CRAB criteria before taking action, explains Lonial. Historically, this has been a common practice; early intervention is a new concept, so many investigators are still awaiting further validation, adds Lonial.

Additionally, it could be beneficial to break out of the mindset that treatment until complete remission in these patients is not always necessary, says Lonial. Rather than eradicating the disease, the goal of treatment might just be to prevent progression, explains Lonial. Interestingly, this strategy requires much less intensity because it allows patients to receive less therapy for a shorter amount of time, explains Lonial. Ultimately, if the development of “full-blown” myeloma can be prevented without eliminating the plasma cell clone, this could be a tremendous step forward, concludes Lonial.