Indian researchers recently identified several factors linked to improved survival among multiple myeloma patients who have undergone stem cell transplantation.

These factors included albumin levels at diagnosis and the achievement of a response – particularly a complete response – after transplantation.

Patients who achieved a complete response after transplantation, for example, had a median overall survival of 17 years.

The use of novel agents as initial treatment was also associated with improved overall survival.

Based on their findings, the study investigators recommend …

I mentioned in a recent column how the topics for my columns crop up from a variety of sources.  This month's topic formed in my head (as you might expect, during a dex-day) due to the convergence of three separate, but related items and events:

A recent posting to one of the Beacon columns or forums indicating the site is not much more than a place for everyone to come and drown their sorrows.

A conversation I had with one …

Results from an Italian Phase 1/2 trial show that a combination therapy consisting of lower doses of Velcade, melphalan, and prednisone may be an effective and safe salvage therapy for older multiple myeloma patients.

Over half of the patients in the trial responded to the treatment, and according to the study investigators, the treatment was well tolerated, making it a viable treatment option for older myeloma patients.

In Europe, the combination treatment of Velcade (bortezomib), melphalan (Alkeran), and …

Last week, I had the pleasure of taking a quick jaunt from my home in the rural Ozarks of southwest Missouri to the big city of San Francisco.

As an enthusiastic traveler before my diagnosis of multiple myeloma, I had always enjoyed venturing out to far locales by rail, sail, wing, or wandering highway.

Having flown several times since my furious tango with myeloma began in November of 2008, I know well the importance of heeding my doctor’s (and my …

Since my sister Deana was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in April 2011, participating on charity teams to raise awareness and money for research has become an important activity for me.  Two weeks ago, as Hurricane Sandy was making news, I was en route to Washington, D.C., to participate in my second charity marathon, the Marine Corps Marathon.

While not a Marine, I am moved by their motto, “Semper Fi” – always faithful. Until my sister is cured, I will remain …

Researchers from the United Kingdom recently published a review in which they assess the role of kidney transplantation in multiple myeloma.

The authors conclude that, for certain multiple myeloma patients with kidney damage, kidney transplants should be considered more frequently than currently is the case.

Specifically, the researchers identify younger myeloma patients with end-stage kidney disease who require dialysis as the best candidates for a kidney transplant.

They point out that major improvements have been made in the treatment of …

An international piano competition, which is held here in Calgary every three years and is near and dear to my heart, took place again at the end of last month. 

As in 2009, I had the chance to attend some of the concerts. My state of mind, however, was much better this time around.

In 2009, I was starting induction chemotherapy and was in a very worried state of mind.  My husband Dilip and I had volunteered with this event …