Follow-up of patients with refractory or relapsed multiple myeloma after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation

BACKGROUND: The role of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) for the treatment of multiple myeloma is controversial. However, the introduction of proteasome inhibitors and immunomodulatory drugs might influence outcomes in case of relapse or refractory disease after allogeneic HCT.

METHODS: We report 41 consecutive patients that underwent allogeneic HCT for the treatment of relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma.

RESULTS: Three-year event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) of the whole cohort were 15% and 51%, respectively. In a subgroup analysis, allogeneic HCT after a second high-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell support was associated with a decreased 3-year EFS (6% vs 24%, P=.04) and OS (35% vs 64%, P=.09). In case of relapse or refractory disease after allogeneic HCT, the treatment with proteasome inhibitors or immunomodulatory drugs significantly improved survival (1-year OS 79% vs 29%, P=.001).

CONCLUSION: The incorporation of proteasome inhibitors and immunomodulatory drugs into transplant protocols has the potential to improve outcomes and refine the role of allogeneic HCT for the treatment of multiple myeloma as a platform for long-term disease control.