The challenge of relapsed/refractory myeloma: An emerging role of bortezomib

The treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) has undergone significant developments in recent years. The availability of the novel agents includes thalidomide and its analogs, proteasome inhibitors, arsenic trioxide, farnesyltransferase inhibitors 2-methoxyestradiol and lenalidomide has extended treatment options and has improved the outcome and quality of life of patients with MM. This review presents the totality of evidence through a systematic review that assessed the efficacy, safety or toxicity of bortezomib in patients with relapsed/refractory myeloma with or without concomitant complications. This review has precisely covered the role of bortezomib in patients with relapsed/refractory myeloma and not the newly detected populace.