Infection risks and prevention in patients with multiple myeloma

Abstract

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematological malignancy characterized by aberrant clonal plasma cells in the bone marrow. Despite significant advances in the treatment of MM, infection remains a main cause of death. MM patients have an increased risk of infection compared to their healthy counterparts due to several factors related to underlying disease, advanced age, comorbidities, and MM treatment. MM patients are at high risk of infection during the first 3 months after diagnosis and during relapse. Anti-myeloma drugs frequently result in severe immunosuppression and increased risk of infection. Proteasome inhibitors deplete T cells, lenalidomide and pomalidomide induce neutropenia, and CD38 antibodies reduce B cell function. To prevent infection in MM patients, we should take appropriate action by medical prophylaxis and vaccination.