From the Research
Urticaria myeloma is not a recognized medical condition in standard medical literature, and patients with multiple myeloma and urticaria should have each condition treated separately according to standard protocols. Multiple myeloma is a blood cancer affecting plasma cells in the bone marrow, while urticaria refers to hives, an allergic skin reaction causing itchy welts. These are separate conditions that can occasionally coexist but do not constitute a single disease entity.
Treatment of Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma treatment typically involves chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunomodulatory drugs, and possibly stem cell transplantation, as seen in a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) in 2022 1.
Management of Urticaria
Urticaria, on the other hand, is managed with antihistamines, corticosteroids, and identifying and avoiding triggers. Some cancer treatments can cause skin reactions including urticaria as a side effect, so any skin manifestations in a myeloma patient should be evaluated to determine if they're treatment-related or a separate condition requiring specific management, as noted in a study on lenalidomide desensitization published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice in 2023 2.
Importance of Coordinated Care
Patients with multiple myeloma experiencing skin symptoms should consult their hematologist-oncologist and possibly a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and coordinated care. The treatment of multiple myeloma has evolved with the introduction of new therapies such as monoclonal antibodies, as discussed in an expert review published in Expert Review of Anticancer Therapy in 2021 3.
Recent Studies
A recent study published in the Lancet in 2017 highlighted the efficacy of bortezomib with lenalidomide and dexamethasone in patients with newly diagnosed myeloma without intent for immediate autologous stem-cell transplant 4. Another study from 2016 discussed the management of lenalidomide-associated rash in patients with multiple myeloma, emphasizing the importance of rash evaluation and treatment adjustment to ensure continued therapy tolerance 5.
Key Considerations
In summary, the management of multiple myeloma and urticaria requires a comprehensive approach, considering the latest treatment options for multiple myeloma and the appropriate management of urticaria, whether it be a separate condition or a side effect of cancer treatment. The most recent and highest quality evidence supports the use of a combination of therapies for multiple myeloma, including immunomodulatory drugs, proteasome inhibitors, and corticosteroids, while urticaria management focuses on symptom relief and trigger avoidance.