Role of autologous stem-cell transplantation in multiple myeloma.
Multiple myeloma (MM) is one of the diseases in which the impact of dose intensity has been demonstrated. Consequently, in 2005 MM was the first disease for which autologous stem-cell transplantation (ASCT) was indicated in Europe and the US. However, ASCT is not curative, and most patients relapse in a median of 3 years. The introduction of novel agents such as thalidomide, bortezomib (Velcade) or lenalidomide (Revlimid) was logical to try to improve the high-dose strategy, and promising results have been reported. This article will focus on the current results of ASCT and will discuss the main research area to try to improve this strategy.
Attal
Michel
M
Hematology Department, Centre Hospitalier de Purpan, Place du Dr Baylac, 31059 Toulouse, France.
Harousseau
Jean-Luc
JL
D000367:Age Factors; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D018380:Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D009101:Multiple Myeloma / Q000628:therapy*; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012074:Remission Induction; D019172:Transplantation Conditioning; D014182:Transplantation, Autologous
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents