This article is the first in a five-part series about emerging vaccines for multiple myeloma.  It provides an introduction to the concept of a myeloma vaccine.  The second article provides an introduction to the various types of vaccines that are currently under development for myeloma, the third article describes vaccines for which clinical trials have been completed, the fourth article focuses on ongoing vaccine research, and the fifth article tells the story of a patient who …

The media often does stories about people who have lived at least one hundred years.  What is their secret?  Are these centenarians—as they are called—simply lucky, or do they share commonalities that might help others live longer?

The answer is yes.  Yes they are lucky.  And yes, many have certain things in common.

These common traits include staying active, a family history of longevity, commitment to family, friends and/or their community, and a positive attitude or innate ability to deal …

An international group of myeloma researchers has recently identified five genetic variations that may be associated with an increased risk of developing thalidomide-related peripheral neuropathy.  Several of these genes are involved in repairing nerves or controlling inflammation in the peripheral nervous system.

The researchers indicated that these genetic variations may be a tool to help identify patients who are at a greater risk of developing thalidomide-related peripheral neuropathy.

However, the researchers pointed out that their findings were based on data …

After a week of discussions about the potential link between Revlimid maintenance therapy and second cancers, the members of the International Myeloma Working Group have decided that more information is needed before they can issue unified recommendations.

A number of myeloma specialists have voiced differing opinions on whether this potential link to second cancers should affect the use of Revlimid (lenalidomide) as a myeloma therapy (see related Beacon news).  The latest decision from the International Myeloma Working Group …

Results of a recent French study show that multiple myeloma patients with the chromosomal abnormality t(4;14) have a high response rate after stem cell transplantation, but continue to have poor overall survival and short remission times.

Compared to conventional chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation helped the patients with t(4;14) achieve higher-quality responses. However, most patients continued to experience quick and aggressive relapses after stem cell transplantation.

The study authors indicated the need for investigation into consolidation and maintenance strategies that would …

This week I’d like to discuss two questions that patients often have: Is it OK to suggest a change in a treatment plan due to side effects, trends in numbers, or having learned about a better therapy regimen? If a patient’s doctor suggests a treatment option that they don’t really like, should the patient suggest another one?

The answer to both questions is YES!

Treating multiple myeloma is definitely a work in progress. There's no one right answer. Setting goals …

A split may be developing in the multiple myeloma research community regarding the treatment implications of a possible link between long-term Revlimid use and secondary cancers.

Many researchers are going on record saying the current controversy does not justify any change in the use of Revlimid (lenalidomide) as a myeloma therapy.  Other researchers, however, believe the controversy raises important questions that justify more cautious use of the drug.

Concerns about a potential Revlimid-secondary cancer link first emerged at the …