Bone Disease in Multiple Myeloma
Myeloma Skeletal Clinic
Approximately 70 percent of all multiple myeloma patients develop some type of bone impairment, such as kyphosis, lytic lesions and compression fractures. The Cleveland Clinic's Myeloma Skeletal Clinic, the only one of its kind in the world, was established because of the crucial role the skeletal system plays in this disease.
The clinic combines the multidisciplinary expertise of medical oncologists, orthopedic surgeons, radiation oncologists, palliative medicine specialists, radiologists, neuro-radiologists, cardiologists, nephrologists and other specialists.
The latest medical therapy currently being investigated is Zoledronate “Zometa®,” a cyclic, third-generation bisphosphonate that may serve as an alternative to pamidronate.
Bisphosphonates, a mainstay of skeletal supportive care, have had a tremendous impact on myeloma patients' well being. Zoledronate is reported to be at least 100 times more potent than pamidronate. These studies will evaluate whether that potency translates into increased efficacy. If so, Zometa® will simplify treatment and improve the quality of care.
Advances in the area the minimally invasive surgeries are currently being utilized at the Cleveland Clinic Myeloma program in collaboration with the surgeons from the Spine Center. A procedure called Kyphoplasty has been utilized, and developed by the group.
