The greatest excess mortality in multiple myeloma (MM) is in older patients, Prof Graham Jackson, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals, Newcastle, UK, told the Haematology Association of Ireland 2024 Annual Meeting. Prof Jackson gave an insightful talk about controversial issues in the initial therapy of MM, with a focus on risk factors for poorer treatment outcomes. Describing “other things to think about when assessing risk”, Prof Jackson said that beta-2 microglobulin “remains consistently important”, alongside lactate dehydrogenase, albumin, and cytogenetics. “It [elevated beta-2 microglobulin] is still one of the highest driving factors of poorer outcomes,” he said. He demonstrated poorer outcomes associated with those over 65 and discussed alternative options for transplant ineligible patients, such as quadruple therapy.

Source: Irish Independent November 19, 2024 23:01 UTC