[gumps2003]

How long take CyBorD / VCD for relapsed myeloma?

by gumps2003 on Sat Oct 29, 2016 8:31 am

Hello group,

I am currently aged 43 years male and I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, Grade 4 (93% plasma cells) in 2011 with severe renal impairment (with dialysis). I was given 20 cycles of Velcade and dexamethasone. After this, I had a complete response and was given thalidomide as maintenance for 2 months. I had developed severe peripheral neuropathy (also causing some permanent damage to nerve cells). My renal health improved but is still impaired with CrCl 60 ml/min.

Now, after 5 years, my multiple myeloma has relapsed. My kappa / lambda ratio is 55 (with the significant kappa light chain at 970 mg/dl) and plasma cells are around 7 to 8%. I do not see any other CRAB features except the renal impairment that I am carrying from last 5 years.

I have started on Velcade, Endoxan (cyclophosphamide), and dexamethasone (CyBorD, VCD) again on weekly schedule. I am taking Velcade in subcutaneous mode to reduce neuropathy impact. Since I had a complete response last time, I am hoping that it will be the same case this time around as well. However, I am unsure as to how long I need to go on. I have already had 4 weeks of treatment, so I am thinking to check my kappa / lambda ratio and M-spike now before the 5th week. In the case I get to see CR with this 4 weeks of treatment itself, can I stop taking Velcade?

Any advice from the forum is highly appreciated.

Thank you so much,
Pradeep

[cdnirene]

Re: How long take CyBorD / VCD for relapsed myeloma?

by cdnirene on Mon Oct 31, 2016 8:38 pm

Even with a complete response (CR) after one cycle, I suspect your doctor would want to continue with the Velcade for awhile to deepen the response.