When you are diagnosed with multiple myeloma, the most important initial decision is whether to begin treatment. Baseline testing, staging, and prognostic classification are essential. Treatment is recommended for:
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active, symptomatic myeloma and
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smoldering, asymptomatic myeloma with myeloma-defining events (MDEs). MDEs are biologic markers that indicate progression of the disease.
Depending on the exact health issues a patient faces, the urgency of treatment can be assessed. The IMF strongly recommends consulting with a myeloma specialist who can ascertain when and how to intervene.
In this section, you will learn when and if to treat your multiple myeloma if you are a newly diagnosed patient. Also, if you have undergone an induction therapy, you and your healthcare team will still need to assess if you need maintenance therapy at all or if you need a new intervention. For example, if your disease has progressed despite induction therapies, it may be time to consider treatments for early relapse.
What's Next?
If you have active, symptomatic myeloma or smoldering (asymptomatic) myeloma with one or more myeloma-defining events, you most likely should begin treatment. Learn about your options.
The International Myeloma Foundation medical and editorial content team
Comprised of leading medical researchers, hematologists, oncologists, oncology-certified nurses, medical editors, and medical journalists, our team has extensive knowledge of the multiple myeloma treatment and care landscape. Additionally, Dr. Brian G.M. Durie reviews and approves all medical content on this website.
Last Medical Content Review: July 30, 2021