In a nutshell
This study evaluated the safety and effectiveness of consolidation and maintenance regimens containing bortezomib (Velcade) for multiple myeloma (MM). This study concluded that consolidation therapy with bortezomib improved survival without tumor growth or spread.
Some background
Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer of the bone marrow that can lead to abnormal immune cells. High-dose chemotherapy followed by a stem cell transplant (SCT) remains a key part of treatment for patients with MM.
After the transplant, consolidation therapy can be given to boost the patient’s response to treatment. Maintenance therapy is given to help delay relapse (cancer recurrence). While consolidation therapy is a short course of treatment, maintenance therapy is given over a longer period. The role of bortezomib as consolidation or maintenance therapy in patients with MM is still unknown.
Methods & findings
This study looked at the results of 10 studies. These studies included a total of 3147 patients with MM. 1506 patients received treatment containing bortezomib. 1641 patients received treatment that did not contain bortezomib.
Overall, consolidation therapy with bortezomib was significantly associated with a 23% lower risk of tumor growth or spread. However, consolidation therapy with bortezomib did not significantly improve overall survival.
Maintenance therapy with bortezomib was significantly associated with a 28% lower risk of tumor growth or spread. Maintenance therapy with bortezomib also significantly decreased mortality risk by 29%. This was compared to non-bortezomib maintenance regimens.
Treatment with bortezomib was associated with a higher risk of serious side effects. This included numbness or tingling in the hands or feet (1.59-fold) and side effects to the digestive system (1.66-fold). Bortezomib was also associated with a higher risk of fatigue (2.10-fold).
The bottom line
This study concluded that consolidation therapy with bortezomib improved survival without tumor growth or spread.
The fine print
The studies analyzed here had different patient populations and treatment regimens. More studies are needed to confirm these results.
Published By :
Blood cancer journal
Date :
Mar 06, 2020
