Multiple Myeloma Program

The Multiple Myeloma Program of the OHSU Center for Hematologic Malignancies is organized to perform a comprehensive analysis of the state of your disease as well as providing you with insightful information about the ever-changing treatments and expectations regarding long-term control. Multiple myeloma is a cancer involving the cell type, the B lymphocyte, which produces antibodies. This disease can be indolent or can have a very aggressive behavior. It typically is found in elderly individuals although approximately 20% of the patients on diagnosis are under the age of 60. Over the past 10 years, there have been multiple successes in the treatment of this disorder, which have translated to improved life span with maintenance of high levels of quality of life. This disease in the past had only limited therapies available but now, multiple options ranging from biologic therapy to bone marrow transplant are available. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to learn about your disease as well as the news of the most promising treatments. We have multiple clinical trials investigating new agents as well as in using blood or marrow transplants after high dose chemotherapy for its control. Our team of experts is actively pursuing new treatments for multiple myeloma with a plan that these therapies will lead to improvement in expected survival.

In providing you the comprehensive consultation required, we work closely with collaborators within our Division of Hematopathology, six individuals whose entire focus is to evaluate bone marrow disorders. We have the support of a leading laboratory in Cytogenetics, which provides further insights to your physicians regarding your disease. Importantly, we have a strong collaboration with our colleagues in the Neurosurgery and Orthopedic departments who are available to provide up-to-date and timely interventions to reduce the bone complications of this disease.

In summary, at the Center for Hematologic Malignancies Multiple Myeloma Clinic, we work closely with you to provide you the understanding of your disease and will work with you into the future for its control and for improvement in your life.

Treating Physicians:
Farnoush Abar, M.D.
Tibor Kovacsovics, M.D.
Richard T. Maziarz, M.D.

Collaborating physicians:
Jung Yoo, M.D., Department of Orthopedics
Robert Hart, M.D., Department of Orthopedics
Stanley Barnwell, M.D., Department of Neurosurgery

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Clinical Trials Related to this Disease