Robert Z. Orlowski, MD
MD Anderson Cancer Center
Interview Date: January 5, 2018

Much is happening in the world of myeloma. Where are we headed in 2018? Dr. Robert Z. Orlowski of the MD Anderson Cancer Center joins us to share the latest. He reviews a variety of treatment options for smoldering myeloma, emphasizes the expanded use of daratumumab for all patient settings, reminds us that cyclophosphamide (an older drug) can still be used effectively and reviews the importance of maintenance therapy. He notes the progress of minimal residual disease MRD) testing. He shares the up-and-coming immunotherapies like isatuximab, the new Glaxo-Smith-Klein antibody and the use of venetoclax for patients with the 11;14 translocation. 

Most importantly he shares the importance of being treated by a myeloma specialist. Newly diagnosed patients who see a myeloma specialist can have 40% better overall survival. And in general,  those who are treated by myeloma specialists can live 22% longer than those who don't. To find a myeloma specialist, click here. 

Thanks to our episode sponsor, Takeda Oncology