Multiple myeloma in Latin America

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction Multiple myeloma in Latin America (LATAM) face multiple challenges related to the lack of resources according to low- and middle-income in the region. Areas covered in this narrative review, several aspects of myeloma multiple epidemiology, diagnostic methods and risk stratification, medication commonly employed, and treatment results in LATAM are discussed. Conclusion Patients usually are diagnosed in an advanced stage of the disease, and routine and risk evaluations are usually not ideal due to lack of access to different studies. Treatment is limited in many cases to the use of thalidomide and dexamethasone with and without cyclophosphamide. Access to autologous stem cell transplantation is far from ideal. Efforts must be made at the national health system level in our countries to offer our vast majority of MM patients a real chance to improve results in the diagnostic, risk stratification, and treatment. Currently, several groups in our region are working to make an impact in the field of MM.