Imaging scans and blood tests to predict treatment response in newly diagnosed myeloma

This research study follows newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients as they receive standard treatment (chemotherapy, stem cell transplant, and lenalidomide maintenance therapy). Researchers will use two advanced techniques—special imaging scans called PET scans and blood tests that detect minimal residual disease—to better predict how well the treatment is working and whether the cancer might come back early.

Current ways of measuring treatment success don't always predict which patients will relapse soon after treatment ends. By combining imaging scans with sensitive blood tests, doctors hope to identify patients at higher risk of early relapse and eventually tailor treatment to each person's specific needs.