What should be the choice between Stem cell transplant and Bortezmib therapy for multiple myeloma patient?

A 53yr,male patient of myeloma has completed 3 months Chemotherapy with Thallidomide and Dexa.PRETREATMENT plasma cells on bone marrow aspi.were 45%,Beta2microglobulin was 2.94,Electrophoresis showed diffuse gamma globulin region,LFTs,RFTs were normal.AFERreceiving chemotherapy,bone marrow Plasma cells are 4%,diffuse g-globulin region(serum antibodies within normal range),Haemogram,LFTs,RFTs are normal.So now what should be choosen between AutologousBMT and Continuing CHEMO. adding Bortezomib(Velcade),for better Prognostic and Survival Benefit?

Velcade has shown very promising results. I am currently in a trial testing velcade for use with non hodgkins lymphoma. (actually getting chemo as I type!) Stem cell is a big thing. Very. Usually a last option. And they also due high dose chemo prior, to essentially kill everything, good and bad, and then do the stem cell.Its like a big reboot. It requires a month or more of hospitalization on isolation and can be VERY expensive. I personally elected to run out the chemo option before stem cell. Good luck, but lalk to your doctor. There are also a lot of good web sites with a lot of info on transplants. Velcade also has its own site...the drug itself is very well tolerated.

Hi,

that's a hard one - the IMF has a treatment option matrix; check it out at

www.myeloma.org

3 months is not very long before going for SCT; other questions

bone invlovement?, how's the kidney function? there are so many other factors besides BMB and M spike; cones down to a discussion with your MM specialist.

Good luck,

Jewells
34 months and still here