Opinion
Video
Navigating Impact of RRMM Treatment on Patient Quality of Life
Dr Fonesca highlights key factors in multiple myeloma treatment affecting patient quality of life.
This is a video synopsis/summary of a Post Conference Perspectives featuring Rafael Fonseca, MD.
Preserving quality of life is paramount when treating relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). Beyond managing acute toxicities from newer treatments like chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy and bispecific antibodies, preventing long-term adverse events is crucial. Peripheral neuropathy, largely from bortezomib, remains highly problematic despite weekly subcutaneous dosing. Neuropathy harms day-to-day functioning, requires added medications, increases fall/fracture risks, etc. More vigilance is needed even for grade 1 neuropathy. Encouragingly, more trials now include quality of life and patient-reported outcomes to capture patient perspectives and drive change, like the shift from 12 days of high-dose dexamethasone to just 4 days.
Recent updates with idecabtagene vicleucel and CAR T-cell therapy also suggest quality of life benefits compared to other regimens with less frequent health care contact. As measures become more standardized, quality of life differences may further influence treatment selections. Anecdotally, patients report feeling better on CAR T-cell therapy with reduced trips, injections, and dexamethasone exposure. While balancing efficacy remains vital, optimizing quality of life is a key goal in myeloma.
Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by AJMC® editorial staff.
