Dr. Kumar on Utility of ASCT in Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma

Shaji Kumar, MD, a consultant in hematology at the Mayo Clinic, advises physicians on the use of autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma.

Kumar says his key message is that, for patients with newly diagnosed disease, they should always be considered for ASCT. Additionally, in scenarios with an older patient with multiple myeloma who is in good physical health and no significant comorbidities, ASCT should be discussed and considered.

Even if a physician is in doubt of whether a patient is a good candidate for ASCT, the patient should always be referred to a transplant center where they can be assessed and the procedure can be discussed in greater detail. This will allow a patient to make an informed decision on their treatment, Kumar says.

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