Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (auto-HCT) is a safe and effective option in patients with refractory multiple myeloma, according to a study involving 233 individuals. This includes those refractory to immunomodulatory agents and proteasome inhibitors.

Participants all had multiple myeloma and underwent first auto-HCT between 2000 and 2015. They had either primary refractory or relapsed and refractory disease. Some were considered double-refractory because they were refractory to at least 1 immunomodulatory agent or proteasome inhibitor. Among the results:

• At a median follow-up of 42 months in survivors, 8 in every 10 achieved partial response.
• Partial response was 79% in the double-refractory group and 83% in the remaining contingent.
• 22% achieved near complete response or better (24% and 21%, respectively).
• Median progression-free survival was 17.6 months (14.4 and 18.2 months, respectively).
• 2-year progression-free survival rate was 38% (35% and 40%, respectively).
• Median overall survival was 48 months (38.9 months and 56.6 months, respectively).
• 2-year overall survival rate was 74% (71% and 76%, respectively).