
The 2026 Multiple Myeloma Landscape with Robert Orlowski, MD, PhD, MD Anderson Cancer Center
The year 2026 brings new promise in multiple myeloma with a wide variety of treatment options available for both newly diagnosed and relapsed/refractory patients. Learn about the progress being made and the very latest in determining risk at diagnosis, strategies for smoldering myeloma patients, optimal treatments for newly diagnosed patients, things to consider at first relapse and beyond. Dr. Robert Orlowski will review advances in CAR T therapies, bispecific antibodies, targeted therapies, combination approaches and clinical trials to watch as the research continues advancing at a rapid pace in myeloma.
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In this episode of the HealthTree Podcast, host Jenny Ahlstrom welcomes Dr. Robert Orlowski from MD Anderson Cancer Center to review groundbreaking developments from the ASH (American Society of Hematology) 2025 meeting and what to look forward to in 2026.
The conversation includes a discussion of smoldering myeloma and the use of teclistamab and daratumumab in the high-risk smoldering setting. Dr. Orlowski shares the 2/20/20 risk criteria, the addition of genetic testing into risk stratification and the impact of plant-based diets and exercise to slow progression.
Dr. Orlowski shares approaches for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma therapy with the standard being quad-based therapy that includes a CD38 monoclonal antibody. Studies are now using CAR T and bispecific antibody therapy into the newly diagnosed setting.
For relapsed or refractory myeloma patients, celmods are in development with iberdomide and mezigdomide helping to restore T cell function. CAR Ts continue to evolve with an upcoming anticipated approval of anito-cel, faster CAR T technology and in vivo CAR Ts, allowing the cells to grow up inside of the patient instead of being sent out for manufacturing. Bispecific antibodies continue to expand with studies including elranatamab and linvoseltamab and a bispecific with a new target called cevostamab. Additionally, a trispecific antibody called ramantamig is in development.
MRD testing is being used more regularly to determine when patients can stop maintenance therapy and bespoke (or personalized) therapy is becoming more advanced for high-risk features. The show concludes with a view towards a cure in myeloma and answers to caller questions.

Jenny Ahlstrom

Robert Orlowski, MD, PhD