Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant clonal plasma cell disorder in the bone marrow and the second-most common hematologic malignancy in adults. Despite a moderate life expectancy, MM requires multiple lines of chemotherapy for durable control and long-term survival. This review discusses management strategies for both transplant-eligible and transplant-ineligible patients, as well as for relapsed and refractory disease. It highlights advances in drug therapies that have improved survival rates and addresses the importance of personalized treatment approaches and supportive care for managing disease- and treatment-related complications.

The survival rate for patients with MM has significantly improved over the past 25 years due to advances in drug therapies, with novel drug classes now part of routine care. However, MM remains incurable, necessitating continuous or serial treatments throughout a patient’s life. This review emphasizes the evolving nature of MM treatment, including the roles of immunomodulatory agents, proteasome inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and immunocellular therapies. It underscores the importance of managing side effects and maintaining quality of life, especially for older adults, younger adults, and special populations. A multidisciplinary approach involving primary care providers is essential for the ongoing management of MM and its complications.

Reference: Monteith BE, Sandhu I, Lee AS. Management of Multiple Myeloma: A Review for General Practitioners in Oncology. Curr Oncol. 2023;30(5):4382-4401. doi: 10.3390/curroncol30050334.