Community hematologist/oncologist perspectives on minimal residual disease testing in patients with multiple myeloma.

Abstract

Aim: To explore community hematologist/oncologist perspectives on the patterns, drivers, and barriers of use of minimal residual disease (MRD) testing in patients with multiple myeloma (MM), and gain understanding on the use of these test results in clinical decision-making and response-adapted treatment approaches.

Methods: A survey was conducted among hematologists/oncologists from a large community oncology practice network in the US who use MRD testing in the management of patients with MM.

Results: Of 22 hematologists/oncologists included, 72.7% reported being comfortable/very comfortable with MRD testing but prescribed a median of only 2.5 tests between September 2019 and October 2023. The most frequently reported driver for MRD testing was to monitor patient remission status. The logistics of sending samples to MRD testing facilities was the most frequently reported perceived barrier for MRD testing. The use of MRD test results to guide treatment decisions and further MRD monitoring varied.

Conclusion: There are opportunities to reduce the barriers for the use of MRD testing and for generation of additional data on the clinical impact of these test results to support the development of guidelines and provide further education on the implementation of MRD test results in clinical practice and aid clinical decision-making.