Clinical trials for Myeloma
Understand Myeloma, explore how clinical trials are advancing treatment for Myeloma and how you can get involved.
What is Myeloma?
Myeloma, also known as Multiple Myeloma, is a type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells—white blood cells that produce antibodies to help fight infection.
In people with Myeloma, these abnormal plasma cells multiply uncontrollably in the bone marrow, crowding out healthy cells and leading to a range of health problems.
Myeloma is most common in older adults and is considered a chronic but treatable cancer. Research into new treatments is ongoing, and clinical trials play a crucial role in offering patients access to innovative therapies.
What are clinical trials?
Clinical trials, also known as clinical studies or medical studies, are research investigations involving people. They are designed to evaluate new treatments, drugs, medical procedures, or interventions to determine whether they are safe, effective, and better than existing options.
Clinical trial studies play a key role in the development of new cancer therapies, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments that are not yet widely available. Participation in a clinical trial often means contributing to progress in medicine while potentially gaining early access to innovative care.
Diagnosis of Myeloma
Diagnosing Myeloma involves several tests and procedures, including blood tests, urine tests, bone marrow biopsies, and imaging scans. Blood tests check for abnormal proteins such as monoclonal (M) protein, which is produced by myeloma cells. Urine tests can detect light chains known as Bence Jones proteins. Imaging techniques like MRI or CT scans may be used to identify bone lesions, and bone marrow biopsies confirm the presence of cancerous plasma cells. Diagnosis is often made based on the combination of test results, symptoms, and evidence of organ damage.
Survival for Myeloma
Survival rates for Myeloma have improved significantly over the past two decades, largely due to advancements in treatment and the development of targeted therapies. The overall 5-year survival rate in the U.S. is currently around 55%, though this varies based on factors such as age, general health, stage at diagnosis, and response to treatment. Patients who respond well to treatment or who are eligible for newer therapies through clinical trials often see more favorable outcomes. Early diagnosis and access to personalized care remain key factors in improving survival.
Treatment for Myeloma
Myeloma treatment typically involves a combination of therapies aimed at controlling the disease, managing symptoms, and improving quality of life. Common treatment approaches include:
Chemotherapy
Targeted therapy (e.g., proteasome inhibitors like bortezomib)
Immunomodulatory drugs (e.g., lenalidomide)
Monoclonal antibodies (e.g., daratumumab)
Steroids
Autologous stem cell transplant
Supportive treatments (e.g., bone-strengthening drugs, antibiotics)
The treatment plan is often tailored to the patient’s disease stage, age, fitness, and overall health. Clinical trials offer access to the newest therapies not yet available as standard care.
Types of Myeloma
There are several types of Myeloma, which can influence treatment decisions:
Smoldering (asymptomatic) Myeloma: An early stage of the disease that doesn’t yet cause symptoms or organ damage.
Active Myeloma: Characterized by symptoms and evidence of organ involvement.
Relapsed/refractory Myeloma: Myeloma that has returned after treatment or is not responding to standard therapies.
High-risk Myeloma: A more aggressive form with specific genetic abnormalities.
Understanding the type and stage of Myeloma helps doctors determine the most appropriate treatment strategy.
Clinical trials for Myeloma
Clinical trials for Myeloma are a key part of advancing treatment and improving outcomes for patients. These studies investigate new drugs, drug combinations, immunotherapies, CAR T-cell therapies, and other innovative approaches. Many trials focus on patients with relapsed or refractory Myeloma, but others are designed for those newly diagnosed or living with smoldering Myeloma.
Participating in a clinical trial can offer access to cutting-edge therapies before they become widely available. Trials also help researchers understand how to better manage side effects, delay disease progression, and improve quality of life.
With CancerBot, you can easily find Myeloma clinical trials that match your diagnosis, treatment history, and location. Our AI tool simplifies the process and connects you with the most relevant options—so you can explore every possible path in your care journey.
How CancerBot finds the right trials for you
CancerBot uses AI to match patients with clinical trials that fit their unique cancer profile. Unlike traditional search platforms that require medical knowledge, CancerBot asks a few simple questions about your condition and treatment history, then analyzes thousands of trial listings to find the most relevant options.
After you answer a few questions about your disease we present you with a list of eligible trials that you meet the criteria for. We also show you a list of potential trials that you might be eligible for with a bit more information from you. If you want to participate in a trial of interest, just click on participate when viewing the trial.
Whether you're newly diagnosed or exploring new options after treatment, CancerBot makes it easier to participate in clinical trials and explore all available care paths.
