Multiple Myeloma Treatment Advancements: Navigating Options Following Therapy Setbacks (Regarding CAR T-cell therapy specifically)
Multiple Myeloma (MM), a type of blood cancer, can be challenging to treat, especially when initial therapies fail. One such therapy is Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, a form of immunotherapy that has shown great success in treating MM that has not responded to other treatments or has come back [1].
However, as of 2022, there is no agreed-upon standard of care if CAR T-cell therapy fails [2]. In such cases, the usual approach involves personalized and targeted therapies, often including clinical trials and novel agents [3]. These therapies are determined by molecular tumor boards and may include chemotherapy with lenalidomide, targeted therapy, chemoimmunotherapy, bispecific antibodies, localized radiation therapy, and other immunotherapies, depending on the patient's specific disease characteristics [3].
Two such immunotherapies recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating MM are Idecabtagene vicleucel (Abecma) and Ciltacabtagene autoleucel (Carvykti) [4]. These therapies target a protein called BCMA, which is found on myeloma cells [5].
It's essential to understand the risks of stopping treatment for MM [6]. Seeking support from loved ones, support groups, mental health professionals, and healthcare team members can be beneficial for managing the psychological aspects of living with MM [7]. Organisations such as The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, CancerCare, Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, and International Myeloma Foundation offer support and resources for those undergoing treatment for MM [8].
Learning about types of maintenance therapy for MM is also useful [9]. In some cases, a second round of CAR T-cell therapy may be suggested after failure [10]. However, most CAR T-cell therapy failures occur within 6 months of treatment [11].
Understanding more about MM treatment and related topics is valuable [12]. If you have questions about MM and its treatment, a healthcare professional can provide answers and guidance [13]. Additionally, learning about whether MM can be cured is also relevant [14].
In conclusion, navigating MM treatment after CAR T-cell therapy failure can be complex, but with the right support, personalized care, and ongoing education, patients can make informed decisions about their treatment journey.
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