A critical evaluation of pembrolizumab in addition to lenalidomide and dexamethasone for the treatment of multiple myeloma.

: Several modalities of immunotherapy have proved successful in multiple myeloma, including immunomodulatory agents, monoclonal antibodies directed to plasma cell surface antigens and chimeric antigen receptor T cells. The PD-1 pathway is implicated in the progression of multiple myeloma. Several properties of lenalidomide are potentially synergistic with PD-1/PD-L1 blockade.

Limited treatment options in refractory multiple myeloma: promising therapeutic developments.

: Combinations of proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulators, and monoclonal antibodies are highly active against multiple myeloma. Consequently, several combinations have moved from the relapsed to the front-line setting. In the context of lenalidomide and bortezomib being used upfront, salvage options need to be evaluated.