Dr. Richter on Study of Symptom Management in Multiple Myeloma

Joshua Richter, MD, a hematologist/oncologist specializing in multiple myeloma at the John Theurer Cancer Center discusses symptom management in patients with multiple myeloma.

The management of multiple myeloma has advanced greatly in recent years, extending survival and reducing the instances of skeletal-related events. As the treatment paradigm shifts, increased attention must be brought to symptom and psychological impact on patients, says Richter.

The Living with Cancer patient reported outcome instrument is a tool used by patients to evaluate distress during treatment. In a recent study presented at the 2017 ASH Annual Meeting, investigators sought to determine the incidence of self-reported pain and depression, as well as financial and personal burden. This information was used to evaluate whether these factors impair performance status in patients with multiple myeloma who are receiving outpatient care at a tertiary cancer center.