Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells in the bone marrow. The goal of treatment for multiple myeloma is to put the cancer into remission. Remission is when you have no symptoms of cancer and the level of cancer markers in your body is very low.
To know if a person has achieved remission from multiple myeloma, the doctor will use a combination of medical tests and physical examinations to determine if the disease is in fact in remission.
First, the doctor will check the levels of serum protein electrophoresis (SPE). SPE measures the levels of immunoglobulin and tells the doctor how much of the antibody and light chain proteins, the two main blood proteins of multiple myeloma, remain and how high they are.
If a patient’s SPE is normal and their levels are near the expected range, it is a good indication that the cancer is in remission.
The doctor will also order a bone marrow biopsy. This test looks closely at a sample of the person’s bone marrow to determine if any cancer cells remain. If the biopsy shows very few or no cancer cells, it is a good indication that the cancer is in remission.
In addition, doctors will also use an imaging test such as a CT or MRI scan to detect any tumors in the body.
Finally, the doctor will check the individual’s calcium and creatinine levels. High values for either can indicate multiple myeloma or other complications, but low values are a good sign that the individual is in remission.
If the patient has normal SPE values, no cancer cells in the bone marrow biopsy, no signs of the cancer on an imaging test, and low calcium and creatinine levels, then the doctor may consider the patient in complete remission from multiple myeloma.
How many times can you go into remission with multiple myeloma?
While there is no limitation on how many times someone might experience remission, the rate of recurrence typically increases with each remission. Therefore, it is likely that the number of remissions a patient experiences may differ depending on the particular case.
Generally speaking, remission can be achieved with a variety of treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, stem cell transplant or medications like thalidomide and lenalidomide. However, remission usually only lasts a few months, and patients typically have to undergo regular check-ups and scans to monitor the progress and have their treatments adjusted as required.
While it is possible to experience multiple remissions, it is important to bear in mind that each case is different and the number of remissions possible can vary.
Can multiple myeloma go into permanent remission?
Yes, it is possible for multiple myeloma to go into permanent remission. While it is not very common, it is possible for some individuals who have multiple myeloma to achieve a cure or long-lasting remission, often referred to as “complete or very good partial response” (VGPR).
For example, the European Myeloma Network (EMN) reported that in 2006, out of 1,143 patients in the study, 7% of them achieved complete remission.
In order to achieve permanent remission, it is important to discuss all available treatment options with your doctor. Treatment options can include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplant, immunotherapy, and other newly developed drugs.
Depending on your particular condition, your doctor may suggest a combination of treatment options and therapies.
Generally, individuals who are able to remain in remission for three years are considered to be in permanent remission. While there is no guarantee of the outcome and these treatments do have side effects and risks, there is a chance of long-term remission or even a cure with careful monitoring and appropriate treatment.
If you have multiple myeloma and would like to explore your options, it is highly recommended to visit your doctor to discuss the best possible treatment plan for you.
How long can you live with relapsed multiple myeloma?
The answer to this question is highly individualized and depends upon a variety of factors related to the patient’s health and treatment plan. Generally, the prognosis for relapsed multiple myeloma is not as good as for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma.
According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for patients with relapsed multiple myeloma is 7%.
With modern treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplant, and the new oral therapies, patients with relapsed multiple myeloma can achieve remission. This remission can be either partial or complete, and some patients may even become long-term survivors.
The length of time that a person with relapsed multiple myeloma can live largely depends on the patients’ overall health, the aggressiveness and stage of the disease, response to treatment, and whether they have any other medical conditions.
Patients who have a partial or complete remission, or have a low or no detectable myeloma in the bone marrow, usually have a better prognosis.
The prognosis for multiple myeloma also depends on the type of treatment the patient is receiving. Treatment for relapsed multiple myeloma can include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplant.
Novel therapies, such as the use of monoclonal antibodies and targeted therapies, can also be used. These treatments can improve the prognosis, but the long-term outcome is highly variable.
In conclusion, while there is not one definitive answer to the question of how long a person with relapsed multiple myeloma can live, the prognosis tends to be better than with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma and depends on factors such as the aggressiveness of the disease and the type of treatment a patient is receiving.
With treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy and stem cell transplant, it is possible for patients with relapsed multiple myeloma to achieve remission and become long-term survivors.
Does multiple myeloma always relapse?
No, not always. Multiple myeloma does not always relapse. While the disease does have a high rate of recurrence and is considered incurable, this does not mean that every person with multiple myeloma will have a relapse.
The risk of recurrence depends on many factors, such as the type and stage of the disease, the health of the patient, and how the disease has been treated. For example, studies have shown that 40-50% of those with stage 1 multiple myeloma will experience a recurrence of the disease.
Conversely, the risk of relapse is much higher in patients with stage 3 multiple myeloma, with around 80% of them likely to have a relapse. The risk of relapse also increases if the patient has undergone only a single cycle of chemotherapy or has failed to adhere to their treatment plan.
Therefore, while recurrence is common, not all patients with multiple myeloma will experience a relapse of the disease.
What is considered complete remission for multiple myeloma?
Complete remission for multiple myeloma is defined as the absence of any evidence of cancer. This includes the disappearance of any myeloma plasma cells from the bone marrow and no detectable levels of M-protein or free light chains in the blood.
Tests such as imaging scans (e. g. X-rays, PET scans or MRI scans), bone marrow biopsy or other tests such as a quantitative immunofixation electrophoresis/serum protein electrophoresis (QIFE/SPE) and urine protein electrophoresis (UPE) are conducted to evaluate for the presence or absence of these markers in the blood or marrow.
Additionally, any signs or symptoms of the condition (e. g. bone pain, anemia, infections, kidney problems, etc. ) should also be absent. The goal of treatment is to achieve complete remission, which typically is followed by close monitoring to ensure that the remission is sustained.
What is the difference between remission and complete remission?
Remission and complete remission are both terms used to describe a decrease in, or absence of, cancer symptoms. Remission typically means that some cancer activity is still present, but it’s not enough to cause symptoms or need treatment.
Complete remission, on the other hand, means that all signs of cancer have disappeared and tests can no longer detect any cancer in the body. Complete remission is often referred to as a “cure”, although cancer can return, oftentimes years later.
When in remission, continuous monitoring is typically conducted by the medical professional handling the patient’s condition. This is done to make sure cancer isn’t growing and spreading or causing symptoms to return.
If the cancer does come back or cancer signs become present again, that’s referred to as a recurrence. Recurrence can be difficult both emotionally and physically, but most people experiencing recurrence can still be treated for it.
How often does multiple myeloma return?
The frequency at which multiple myeloma can return depends on numerous factors, including the extent of treatment, type of treatment received, and a person’s individual response to treatment. Generally speaking, after successful initial treatment, the cancer can remain in remission for months or even years.
However, multiple myeloma is considered a chronic illness and typically, most people will eventually experience relapse.
Most studies have found that about 40-50% of people with multiple myeloma experience relapse within three to five years after their initial diagnosis. If a person does experience relapse, it’s important to start treatment as soon as possible to help maintain a longer remission period.
There are also a few factors that may make a person more likely to experience relapse. These include older age, advanced stage at diagnosis, poor response to initial treatment, or certain genetic abnormalities.
While relapse is common, there are a range of treatments available to help manage and increase the length of remission.
Can multiple myeloma be cured completely?
No; unfortunately, multiple myeloma is a chronic and incurable cancer. While advances in treatment have allowed for greater control and lifespans, the disease is still not able to be cured completely.
In the majority of cases, multiple myeloma will eventually return, and treatment will need to be restarted. Current treatment aims to help maintain the patient’s quality of life and manage the symptoms, as well as remission and expectation of long-term survival.
New therapies, medicines, and drugs are being developed and tested to further improve the outlook and course of the disease, and research continues in order to better understand and combat it.
How quickly does myeloma relapse?
The rate at which myeloma relapses can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the type of treatment you undergo, and your individual response to said treatment. Generally speaking, myeloma is a chronic, progressive disease and can relapse at any time.
Research has shown that in patients who underwent an autologous stem cell transplant, the median time to first relapse ranged between 16 to 24 months. In patients who underwent non-transplant approaches, the median time to first relapse ranged between 10 to 14 months.
It is also important to note that relapse of myeloma is a very individualized process, and outcomes can differ greatly from person to person. Some people can remain in remission for years, while others may relapse within months of their initial treatment.
Additionally, the speed at which myeloma relapses can vary depending on the type of myeloma that has been diagnosed. Generally speaking, patients with more aggressive types of myeloma may relapse faster than those with less aggressive disease.
For those living with myeloma, it is important to be aware of their individual risk factors and to understand their particular prognosis. Regularly visiting your doctor and keeping up with treatments and medication schedules are essential for avoiding a relapse.
Is multiple myeloma a lifelong condition?
Unfortunately, multiple myeloma is considered a lifelong condition, as there is no known cure yet. Multiple myeloma is an incurable type of cancer, and treatment options such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell and blood transfusions, and medications may help to treat and manage the symptoms of the disease.
While some treatments may be able to keep the cancer in check for a period of time, progression and recurrences are common with multiple myeloma. As a result, ongoing medical care is necessary with multiple myeloma, which often involves regular monitoring and tests to detect any changes in the cancer.
What is the average length of time before myeloma returns after stem cell transplant?
The average amount of time before myeloma returns (or relapse) after a stem cell transplant is highly variable and depends on many factors such as the type of transplant, type of myeloma, patient age, and other treatments given at the same time.
According to one study, the median time to relapse was 8 months for autologous transplants (using the patient’s own cells) and 24 months for allogeneic transplants (using donor cells). However, it is important to note that outcomes can vary and range from less than a year to more than five years.
It is also important to note that a relapse does not necessarily mean that the myeloma is not being successfully treated and managed.
Can you live longer than 5 years with multiple myeloma?
Yes, it is possible to live longer than 5 years with multiple myeloma. According to the National Cancer Institute, the estimated 5-year relative survival rate for multiple myeloma is 45%. This means that 45% of people who have been diagnosed with multiple myeloma are still alive 5 years after diagnosis.
There are currently more than 25,000 people living with multiple myeloma, some of whom have lived with the condition for more than a decade.
Advances in medical research and treatments have resulted in improved survival rates for multiple myeloma. Research has been conducted on new treatments that can help prolong life in some cases, including the use of stem cell and immunotherapies.
Additional developments in the field of personalized medicine are also helping to improve outcomes for those with the condition. Clinical trials are also ongoing across the country with the hopes of discovering even more effective treatment options.
With the right treatments, lifestyle changes, and doctor’s appointments, living with multiple myeloma can be done. People with multiple myeloma have gone on to lead full, active lives and have even participated in activities they enjoy.
Everyone’s path with multiple myeloma is different, so it is important to discuss questions and concerns with your healthcare provider to determine the best way to manage the condition.
What is the most frequent cause of death in a patient with multiple myeloma?
The most frequent cause of death in a patient with multiple myeloma is complications from the disease itself. As the cancer progresses, it can cause a number of medical complications that can be serious and life-threatening.
These include infection, kidney failure, anemia, and bone fractures due to weakened bones. In addition, some patients may develop secondary cancers or acute myeloid leukemia. The weakened immune system can also increase the risk of infections and other illnesses.
Thus, the inability of the body to fight off infection or other medical complications is the most frequent and common cause of death in patients with multiple myeloma.
How close are we to a cure for multiple myeloma?
At this point in time, it is difficult to determine how close we are to a cure for multiple myeloma. While there have been a number of positive developments in the field, progress continues to be slow and ongoing.
A number of therapies exist to help treat multiple myeloma and improve remissions, including high-dose chemotherapy and stem cell transplants. These treatments can help improve quality of life and sometimes even extend life expectancy.
But due to the multiple potential complications that can arise from these treatments, as well as the fact that multiple myeloma is often resistant to treatment, complete remission or cure remains elusive for most people diagnosed with the condition.
New and innovative treatments are being and have been developed, with ongoing clinical trials looking at new drugs and cell and gene therapies. These treatments have the potential to greatly increase our ability to target and treat multiple myeloma more effectively.
Over the course of the last decade, there have been a number of positive developments in the field of multiple myeloma research. However, it is difficult to know exactly how close we are to a cure until there is further research and more evidence available.
That said, with the increasing number of new treatments and clinical trials just getting underway, it is encouraging to know that there is hope for a cure in the future.