Myeloma Nurse Learning Programme Module 6 – Stem cell transplantation in myeloma Key points

Key points

  • Stem cell transplantation provides a means of giving high doses of chemotherapy safely to consolidate previous anti-myeloma treatment
  • HDT with autologous SCT is recommended as a part of first-line treatment for all newly diagnosed younger and/or fitter patients with symptomatic myeloma. There is no rigid age cut-off
  • HDT with autologous SCT may be used as a salvage treatment when patients relapse
  • Tandem autologous transplantation is most often used for high-risk myeloma patients
  • Allogeneic SCT is only considered for selected groups of patients because of the risk of significant mortality. Mini, or reduced-intensity, allogeneic SCT is now the predominant type of allogeneic transplant performed in myeloma patients
  • The nurse plays a critical role in coordinating care, providing patient education, and managing and treating symptoms before, during, and after stem cell transplantation. They monitor for complications, support emotional well-being, and help to guide self-management once discharged home.
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