Patient-Reported Outcomes and Assessment of Quality of Life: A Focus on Multiple Myeloma

Abstract

Patients with multiple myeloma are living longer, yet the chronicity of newer treatment modalities has led to increased symptom burden and a notable effect on quality of life (QOL). The assessment of QOL and evaluation of patient-reported outcomes is an essential element to the care of this population. Patients with MM may experience unwanted side effects or disease-related symptoms that create a burden in everyday living. Subjective patient-reported information has become an important dimension to the overall care and treatment of these patients. Symptoms that negatively affect health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and their impact on future treatments should be assessed using patient-reported tools. Many patients’ treatment decisions are guided by their perception of their HRQoL. It is important for advanced practitioners to explore which factors are most impactful to the patient. Improved understanding of this can further enhance the management of symptoms and adjustments in treatment to avoid further reduction in HRQoL.

Efficacy and Safety of Anti-CD38 Monoclonal Antibodies in Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials

“…For patients with MM undergoing chemotherapy, treatment-related adverse events can significantly impact their well-being and quality of life, affecting their daily routines and emotional state [67,68]. Our meta-analysis suggests that while anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies may be associated with an increased risk of severe lymphopenia, neutropenic infections, and thrombocytopenia, they also offer improved clinical efficacy in MM treatment.…”

Vitamin D and Multiple Myeloma: A Scoping Review

“…Beyond survival, as patients with MM are living longer with an incurable hematological disease, increased symptom and disease burden is often reported which notably can deteriorate quality of life (QOL) [ 30 ]. Observed in up to 54% of patients with MM, peripheral neuropathy due to disease activity and/or treatment is a common issue that has the potential to cause pain and debilitation [ 31 ].…”

Impact of elranatamab on quality of life: Patient‐reported outcomes from MagnetisMM‐3

“…4 Advances in anti-myeloma treatments have improved disease response rates and patient life expectancy; however, they are accompanied by multiple side effects, most commonly infections and neurological, haematopoietic and cardiac toxicities, which can impact patient QOL. [4][5][6][7] Moreover, health-related QOL deteriorates with each subsequent relapse and line of therapy. 5 Thus, treatment goals for patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) should also include managing disease and treatmentrelated symptoms to maintain or potentially improve their QOL in addition to extending their survival.…”

“…Bone lesions, bone marrow and renal failure, and immunodeficiency contribute to many complications of the disease 4 . Advances in anti‐myeloma treatments have improved disease response rates and patient life expectancy; however, they are accompanied by multiple side effects, most commonly infections and neurological, haematopoietic and cardiac toxicities, which can impact patient QOL 4–7 . Moreover, health‐related QOL deteriorates with each subsequent relapse and line of therapy 5 .…”