Treatment of Smoldering Multiple Myeloma: Expectant Observation Should Still Be the Standard. 2020

Rafael Fonseca, and Miguel Gonzalez-Velez
Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ.

Recent clinical trials have addressed the notion of early treatment of smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM). The results evidence improvement in progression-free survival and, in one study, overall survival. Although the treatment of SMM can be considered under specific circumstances, we propose here that careful interpretation of the clinical trials and the patient-specific data are needed before recommending therapy. In particular, many questions remain regarding the best regimen to be used as well as how to adapt based on the underlying disease biology. Hematologists should have a very thorough understanding of models designed to predict the progression from SMM to multiple myeloma, because their correct interpretation is paramount to establish proper care. Although there is no doubt that treatment should be started before overt end-organ damage, we do not believe that the current data support the widespread treatment of all SMM.

UI MeSH Term Description Entries
D011379 Prognosis A prediction of the probable outcome of a disease based on a individual's condition and the usual course of the disease as seen in similar situations. Prognostic Factor,Prognostic Factors,Factor, Prognostic,Factors, Prognostic,Prognoses
D006801 Humans Members of the species Homo sapiens. Homo sapiens,Man (Taxonomy),Human,Man, Modern,Modern Man
D000075122 Smoldering Multiple Myeloma An asymptomatic and slow-growing PLASMA CELL dyscrasia characterized by presence of MYELOMA PROTEINS and clonal bone marrow plasma cells without end-organ damage (e.g., renal impairment). It is distinguished from MONOCLONAL GAMMOPATHY OF UNDETERMINED SIGNIFICANCE by a much higher risk of progression to symptomatic MULTIPLE MYELOMA. Asymptomatic Multiple Myeloma,Smoldering Myeloma,Asymptomatic Multiple Myelomas,Multiple Myeloma, Asymptomatic,Multiple Myeloma, Smoldering,Multiple Myelomas, Asymptomatic,Myeloma, Smoldering,Smoldering Multiple Myelomas,Smoldering Myelomas
D018450 Disease Progression The worsening and general progression of a disease over time. This concept is most often used for chronic and incurable diseases where the stage of the disease is an important determinant of therapy and prognosis. Clinical Course,Clinical Progression,Disease Exacerbation,Exacerbation, Disease,Progression, Clinical,Progression, Disease

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