Multiple myeloma - current issues and controversies

The outcome of patients with multiple myeloma has dramatically improved in the past decade, due to the introduction of new, more effective treatments, wider use of high-dose therapy, and better appreciation of potential complications and their management. Increasing treatment options have also raised several important questions regarding the optimal use of novel therapies such as thalidomide, lenalidomide, and bortezomib to realise their full potential and to maximise the survival of patients with myeloma. The high response rates seen with the new regimens have led to increasing debate about the goal of therapy for this disease, including the concept of cure. While we still lack definitive data answering some of these questions, we have attempted to interpret the current state of knowledge, and provide a perspective on the current issues and controversies in this disease.