Not everyone needs a stem cell transplant (SCT) after their first treatment — it really depends on individual factors. Some people choose to delay it until a relapse, while others may not be eligible at all due to the intensity of the process.
For those who aren't candidates or choose not to have a transplant, doctors often Show Full Answer
Not everyone needs a stem cell transplant (SCT) after their first treatment — it really depends on individual factors. Some people choose to delay it until a relapse, while others may not be eligible at all due to the intensity of the process.
For those who aren't candidates or choose not to have a transplant, doctors often recommend extended cycles of combination drug therapy instead. Here are some key things to know:
- Eligibility matters — not everyone is a candidate for a stem cell transplant, based on overall health and other factors
- Timing is flexible — some people have the transplant early, while others wait until relapse
- Alternatives exist — eight to twelve cycles of multi-drug induction therapy are commonly recommended for those who don't have a transplant
- Maintenance therapy follows — whether or not a transplant is done, maintenance therapy (like lenalidomide) is typically used afterward to keep myeloma under control
The best path really comes down to a personal conversation with a hematologist-oncologist who knows the full picture of someone's health and treatment history.
October 6
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