Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma: First Treatment Decision, Risk & Transplant

Description

Dr. William Matsui of MD Anderson Cancer Center walks patients and caregivers through the first steps after a multiple myeloma diagnosis at the HealthTree Houston Myeloma Roundtable (October 24, 2026). He explains who needs treatment (MGUS vs. smoldering vs. active myeloma, CRAB and SLiM criteria), how doctors assess risk with the ISS, R-ISS and newer high-risk genetic definitions, and how transplant eligibility and the IMWG frailty index shape the plan. He then reviews the DETERMINATION trial of autologous stem cell transplant vs. no transplant, the risks and benefits of transplant, treatment for transplant-ineligible patients, and how CAR-T and bispecific antibodies may move into newly diagnosed myeloma.