Dr. Weitzman on Challenges of Treating Penta-Refractory Multiple Myeloma

James Weitzman, MD, medical oncologist, Emerson Hospital and Waltham Cancer Center of Massachusetts General Cancer Center, discusses the challenges of treating patients with penta-refractory multiple myeloma.

Patients with penta-refractory myeloma typically progress on 2 immunomodulatory agents such as lenalidomide (Revlimid) and pomalidomide (Pomalyst), 2 proteasome inhibitors such as carfilzomib (Kyprolis) and bortezomib (Velcade), and daratumumab (Darzalex).

There are limited options for these patients, explains Weitzman. While patients with penta-refractory disease are often considered for clinical trials, utilizing past therapies in new combinations or implementing novel agents such as selinexor (Xpovio) may be of benefit.

With improved laboratory technology, healthcare providers are better able to catch relapses earlier before the patient becomes symptomatic, explains Weitzman.

Despite these advances, treating patients with penta-refractory disease remains an unmet clinical need, concludes Weitzman.