[Multiple myeloma: current therapeutic approaches]

Bull Cancer. 1992;79(3):231-42.
[Article in French]

Abstract

The therapeutic strategy in multiple myeloma depends on age and tumor mass. Stage I must not be treated. The Melphalan Prednisone regimen is the reference for induction therapy because polychemotherapies are generally not superior. At this phase, the addition of Interferon alpha seems to be interesting. This drug has an important role during the steady-state phase. VAD represents the most efficient chemotherapy. Body hemi-irradiation is also useful. The analgesic effect and the decrease in the tumoral mass are the striking effects of this treatment. In young patients, high dose chemotherapy with bone marrow transplantation is proposed. Verapamil and anti-IL6 antibodies are currently being evaluated. Symptomatic treatment is essential in this non curable disease.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use
  • Bone Marrow Transplantation
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Cytokines / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Interferon-alpha / therapeutic use
  • Multiple Myeloma / drug therapy
  • Multiple Myeloma / pathology
  • Multiple Myeloma / radiotherapy
  • Multiple Myeloma / therapy*
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Radiotherapy Dosage

Substances

  • Cytokines
  • Interferon-alpha