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Multiple myeloma

Few cancers have seen more progress in the last decade than myeloma.

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow — and a diagnosis whose outlook has improved dramatically. A steady stream of new medications has turned myeloma, for many patients, into a condition managed over years. We provide that management here: modern combination therapy, supportive care for bones and kidneys, and coordination with transplant centers when appropriate.

How we approach it

Modern combination therapy

Today’s standard regimens combine targeted drugs delivered right here in our infusion center

Protecting bones and kidneys

Myeloma care is also supportive care — we actively manage the complications that affect daily life

Transplant coordination

When stem-cell transplant fits your situation, we coordinate with the transplant center and manage your care before and after

What the workup looks like

The full picture

Blood and urine studies, marrow evaluation, and imaging together define your disease and its risk profile.

Your regimen

Modern myeloma treatment is built from combinations matched to your situation, age, and overall health — we’ll explain each piece’s job.

The long game

Myeloma care continues over years — treatment phases, maintenance, and monitoring, with one team throughout.

Radiation therapy for multiple myeloma

Radiation therapy is one of the tools we may use in treating multiple myeloma — often to relieve pain and strengthen bone in areas affected by the disease. When it’s part of your plan, it’s delivered with the advanced TrueBeam® system and planned by our board-certified radiation oncologist, Dr. Dan Ishihara, working hand-in-hand with your medical oncologist so radiation, drug therapy, and surgery come together as one plan rather than three.

Common questions

Is multiple myeloma curable?

It’s generally considered controllable rather than curable — but control increasingly means years of good quality of life, and the toolbox keeps growing.

What is MGUS — do I have cancer?

MGUS is a common, benign finding that needs monitoring because a small fraction progress to myeloma. Most people with MGUS never develop it — we’ll watch yours so nothing is missed.

Will I need a stem-cell transplant?

Many patients benefit from one; many others are treated very effectively without. It depends on your situation, and we’ll discuss it openly from the start.

Why does myeloma cause bone pain?

Myeloma cells disrupt normal bone maintenance, which can weaken bone. Treating the myeloma — and protecting bone directly with supportive medications — addresses it from both sides.

This page is general information, not medical advice for your specific situation. Every cancer — and every patient — is different. Bring your questions to your care team.