Dr. Kumar on the Role of Stem Cell Mobilization in Multiple Myeloma

Shaji K. Kumar, MD, professor of medicine, Mayo Clinic, discusses the role of stem cell mobilization in multiple myeloma. This is important in patients with myeloma who are eligible for stem cell transplantation.

Patients who are eligible may be up to age 75 years old with good performance status and good organ function, Kumar says. The ability to collect stem cells, however, is important. There are different factors that can play a role, such as what type of prior therapy a patient received, the duration of therapy, and disease control.

It is important to collect adequate stem cells for transplant. There are a number of different approaches to do so, such as granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), risk-adapted strategies, or chemomobilization. These strategies depend on the clinical context, Kumar concludes.