Journal of Patient-Centered Research and Reviews
Volume 4, Issue 2 (2017)
http://digitalrepository.aurorahealthcare.org/jpcrr/

Original Research
Multiple Myeloma Vaccination Patterns in a Large Health System: A Pilot Study
Andinet Alemu, Maharaj Singh, Chris Blumberg, John O. Richards, Martin K. Oaks, and Michael A. Thompson
Abstract
Purpose
Common reasons for hospitalization and death in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) are infections. As patients with MM are living longer and are treated with immunomodulatory drugs, there is a need to immunize against vaccine-preventable diseases and ultimately determine the efficacy of these vaccines. We evaluated vaccination practice patterns in MM patients at our health system using electronic medical records and data analytics.
Conclusion
Despite recommendations of vaccination in multiple myeloma, our cohort had low rates of influenza and pneumonia vaccination. FV and PV status did not show any significant association with additional hospitalization or overall survival in this pilot study. Future prospective studies are needed to ascertain the immunological and clinical efficacy and effectiveness of these vaccines in immunosuppressed patients.