[Multibilly]

Type of pneumococal vaccine for smoldering patients?

by Multibilly on Tue Oct 21, 2014 1:42 pm

I had my routine physical exam today and was discussing getting a pneumonia vaccine with my GP, based on my smoldering condition. However, he wasn't completely sure which vaccine (PCV13 or PPSV23) I should get, given my age, smoldering condition, and some recent changes in the FDA guidelines. Also, he wasn't sure which booster I would then ask for 5-10 years later.

I am 58 years old, smoldering and in very good health.

Does anybody have some up-to-date guidance on this?

We left it that I should discuss with my onc, but I won't see him for 3-4 weeks.

Last edited by Multibilly on Tue Oct 21, 2014 5:31 pm, edited 1 time in total.

[Dr. James Hoffman]

Re: Type of pneumococal vaccine for smoldering patients?

by Dr. James Hoffman on Tue Oct 21, 2014 4:33 pm

If you have never received either, I would err on the side of caution, and consider smoldering myeloma an 'immunocompromising condition', though this is not certainly the case. As such, you should receive both. The consensus (as I am aware of it) is to receive the PCV13 first, and then, after waiting at least 8 weeks, receive the PPSV23.

This would be my advice, but I would ultimately defer to your oncologist who has the best handle on your smoldering myeloma.

[Multibilly]

Re: Type of pneumococal vaccine for smoldering patients?

by Multibilly on Tue Oct 21, 2014 5:29 pm

Thank you Dr. Hoffman!