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Real members of MyMyelomaTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Remission ,maintenance Are The Same Or Difference And What About The Medication Any Difference ?

A MyMyelomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Singapore
November 13
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A MyMyelomaTeam Member

I am on maintenance which the doctor describes as the cancer being stable, close to normal. Remission is when no cancer cells can be detected.

November 14
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

The AI generated response is very accurate. 🥰
I got full remission with my SCT in July 2022 and am taking Lenalidomide as maintenance to keep the cancer cells at bay. 🩷

November 13
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Remission and maintenance therapy are different concepts in the context of multiple myeloma:

- Remission: This refers to a period during which the signs and symptoms of multiple myeloma are reduced or disappear. It indicates that the disease is under control, but it does not mean the disease is cured.

- Maintenance Show Full Answer

Remission and maintenance therapy are different concepts in the context of multiple myeloma:

- Remission: This refers to a period during which the signs and symptoms of multiple myeloma are reduced or disappear. It indicates that the disease is under control, but it does not mean the disease is cured.

- Maintenance Therapy: This is ongoing treatment given after initial successful therapy (such as a stem cell transplant) to prolong remission and prevent relapse. The goal is to keep the disease from progressing and to support quality of life by minimizing toxicity and side effects.

Medication Differences:
- Remission: Achieved through various treatments, including chemotherapy, stem cell transplants, and other aggressive therapies.
- Maintenance Therapy: Typically involves drugs like lenalidomide (Revlimid), which is used to maintain remission and is considered well-tolerated with manageable side effects.

For the best outcomes, it is crucial to adhere to the maintenance therapy plan as prescribed by your oncologist.

November 13
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Hi MAD,
Multiple Myeloma can be an insidious disease that can change relatively quickly. When I was diagnosed I had few symptoms other than fatigue , yet I had Bence Jones proteins detected that indicated that the disease was present. Early detection and treatment is very effective in preventing symptoms from spreading. The risk of disease progression is motivation to take maintenance Revlimid at 15 mg 21 days on, 7 days off. Every decision should be based upon risk/ reward. I fully understand your concerns. You should consult your oncologist to discuss your concerns. First take some time to review the Resource Articles on this website. I also am attaching a guide for your reference.

https://themmrf.org/diagnosis-and-treatment/

https://www.myeloma.org/resource-library/patien...

Navigating a Myeloma Diagnosis, Tests, & Treatment Options
Navigating a Myeloma Diagnosis, Tests, & Treatment Options
https://themmrf.org/diagnosis-and-treatment/
https://www.myeloma.org/resource-library/patient-handbook
https://www.myeloma.org/resource-library/patient-handbook
November 14 (edited)
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Thanks to everyone for that great information pertaining to Remission.

November 14

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Hello MM Family What Is The Difference Between Remission And Cancer Free? Are They Consider The Same. Please Give Feedback.

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I’m In Partial Remission And Yet My Haematologist Hasn’t Got Me On Any Medication At All. Some Of You Appear Tobe On Maintenance Medication

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