Myeloma relapse.

[MargaretG]

Diagnosed with MM in 2006. My symptoms where only foggy vision. After 9 months and multiple tests it was a diagnoses of Multiple Myeloma. three years of quarterly blood work checks I was prepared for a stem cell transplant. Fortunately I used my own stem cells. Hospitalized for 3 weeks, full remission. Treated with thalidomide for approximately 10 months. I decided to stop the treatment. My feet and lower legs have neuropathy from the thalidomide. It has been 6 years of healthy remission and my blood work is showing signs of increased protein again. Still being followed every 3 months with blood work. Now I am starting to look at current treatments as I have been oblivious of new drugs or treatments (2nd stem cell transplant) is new for my area. I would like to hear from anyone that has had a second stem cell or anyone that

has relapsed and is on treatment now."

[JohnHallyburton]

Margaret, there was a triad of drugs approved by the FDA last Fall, 2015. Personally, with the novel drug therapies available, I wouldn't subject myself to a second stem cell transplant. Are you on Revlimid maintenance therapy now?

[worlundj in reply to JohnHallyburton]

Multiple Myeloma seems to be a different disease for everyone who has it. I had 4 high risk genetic factors indicating resistance to treatment with a high probability relapse. I was diagnosed two years ago. I did three, 28 day cycles of Revlimid, Valcade and Dexamethisone followed by an Auto transplant followed four months later by a Allo transplant using my brother's stem cells. Wonderful to have many drug and transplant options, but best approach is dependent on your genetic factors and other factors. This is where knowledge gained from Oncologists and survivors is helpful in formulating your best approach.

[MargaretG in reply to JohnHallyburton]

Thx for your reply. No, as of right now, I am just doing bloodworm every 3 months. The doctors havin mentioned me going on revlimed and deb.

[JohnHallyburton]

Here's a write-up on the newest approved drugs:

cancer.gov/news-events/canc...

[MargaretG]

Hi John, I am not on any treatment at the moment. They are doing blood work every three months.

[JohnHallyburton]

Well, as your protein count is rising, it may be time to discuss maintenance therapy with your hematologist. I'm on 25 mg of Revlimid for each 28-day period. That may be a possibility for you.

[JohnHallyburton in reply to JohnHallyburton]

21 days for each 28-day period

[JohnHallyburton]

If the doctor does put you on Revlimid, talk to your insurance company about coverage. If they don't cover it, you may need to ask for an exception. Also, PAN Foundation can help with the co-pay (which is considerable).

[JohnHallyburton in reply to JohnHallyburton]

Work with your pre-authorization nurse in your hematologist's office to get approval of the drug from the insurance company. Also, Celgene, the manufacturer, has a support system for those unable to pay the full price.

[JohnHallyburton]

If your protein count is rising rapidly, you may wish to go on monthly blood draws to keep better track of it.

[MargaretG in reply to JohnHallyburton]

Thanks John for your info.

[JohnHallyburton in reply to MargaretG]

We're all in this together....

[Abinet1]

Is there any updates ? I notice this is 2 years ago !!