What treatment options are available after becoming MRD positive following a second bone marrow transplant, when CAR-T is not available?
First, becoming MRD positive after achieving MRD-negative status is understandably concerning, but it doesn't mean all options are exhausted β far from it. This is exactly the moment to Show Full Answer
What treatment options are available after becoming MRD positive following a second bone marrow transplant, when CAR-T is not available?
First, becoming MRD positive after achieving MRD-negative status is understandably concerning, but it doesn't mean all options are exhausted β far from it. This is exactly the moment to have a detailed conversation with your hematologist-oncologist about switching strategies.
Since CAR-T is not yet available in India, the bispecific T-cell engagers you mentioned are very relevant options to explore. Both work by bringing your immune system's T-cells close to myeloma cells to destroy them. Here's a quick overview of the two bispecifics available to you:
- Teclistamab (Tecvayli) β Targets BCMA on myeloma cells. It has shown meaningful response rates in relapsed/refractory myeloma and is FDA-approved. Key side effects include cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and infection risk.
- Elranatamab (Elrexfio) β Also targets BCMA. Similarly approved and has shown strong responses. Side effects are comparable to teclistamab.
Both are given as injections and require step-up dosing to reduce CRS risk. Other options your doctor may consider alongside or instead of bispecifics include:
- Daratumumab-based combinations (if not previously used)
- Carfilzomib (Kyprolis)-based regimens
- Clinical trials, which may offer access to newer therapies
Since you've already been on Pomalidomide-Dexamethasone maintenance, your doctor will factor that into the decision.
No one can say which is "best" without knowing your full history, organ function, and prior treatments β that's truly a conversation for your specialist. But both bispecifics are genuinely promising options worth discussing urgently.
June 27