Home Immunotherapy Trial Offers Hope to Myeloma Patients

A new clinical trial, the TOPICAL trial, is underway with the goal of enabling patients to receive life-saving immunotherapy treatments for multiple myeloma in their own homes. Currently, the risk of cytokine release syndrome (CRS), a dangerous side effect, restricts the use of these advanced therapies to specialist hospitals, often requiring patients to travel long distances.

Decorator Jason Walker, 45, from Longridge, Lancashire, was the first patient to join the trial after being diagnosed with stage 3 multiple myeloma in February 2014. He shared his optimism that the trial will not only benefit him but also many other "myeloma warriors" by improving treatment delivery and reducing the need for hospitalization.

Dr. Emma Searle, a consultant haematologist at The Christie, highlighted that if the new therapy can safely reduce CRS risk, it could transform treatment accessibility. Bob Munro, 66, from Windsor, who previously benefited from an immunotherapy drug called teclistamab, attested to the potential of such advancements. He believes the anti-inflammatory drug POLB 001, being evaluated in the TOPICAL trial, could significantly reduce side effects and hospital stays for patients.

The TOPICAL trial plans to recruit approximately 30 patients with relapsed or treatment-resistant multiple myeloma. Participants will receive POLB 001 alongside an approved bispecific antibody therapy. Dr. Rakesh Popat, co-chief investigator, noted that an oral preventative treatment for CRS could make treatment easier for patients and reduce the burden on hospital resources.