MyMyelomaTeam

After achieving remission through induction therapy, a stem cell transplant is a common next step for eligible people with myeloma. The most recommended type is an autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT), which uses your own stem cells collected before high-dose chemotherapy.

Here's a general overview of the process:

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After achieving remission through induction therapy, a stem cell transplant is a common next step for eligible people with myeloma. The most recommended type is an autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT), which uses your own stem cells collected before high-dose chemotherapy.

Here's a general overview of the process:

- Stem cell collection — Growth factor medicines help move stem cells from your bone marrow into your blood, where they're collected and stored
- High-dose chemotherapy (conditioning) — This kills as many remaining myeloma cells as possible and prepares your bone marrow for new cells
- Stem cell infusion — Your stored stem cells are returned to your bloodstream, where they travel to the bone marrow and begin producing healthy blood cells
- Maintenance therapy — After transplant, ongoing treatment helps keep myeloma under control for as long as possible Research shows that people who had an early transplant stayed in remission for around 5.5 years on average, compared to about 4 years for those who used triplet drug therapy alone without a transplant. Importantly, overall survival was similar between both groups.

A few important things to keep in mind:

- An ASCT can lead to deeper, longer remissions but cannot cure myeloma
- There is a small risk that collected stem cells may carry myeloma cells, which could contribute to relapse
- Recovery involves a period of immune suppression, increasing infection risk
- Some high-risk individuals may be considered for two transplants in a row (tandem transplants)

It's always worth having a detailed conversation with your hematologist-oncologist about timing and whether transplant is the right next step for your specific situation.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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