Multiple myeloma is the second most common hematologic malignancy in the US. 
Treatments utilizing alkylating agents, corticosteroids, proteasome inhibitors, 
and immunomodulatory drugs have resulted in significant survival benefits, 
however, despite the advances, relapse is inevitable. Decreased depth and 
duration of response obtained with each successive relapse of disease is typical 
of the disease course, thereby highlighting a continuing need for new treatment 
options. With the introduction of monoclonal antibodies for multiple myeloma, 
new options for treatment in the relapsed setting are on the horizon. Among the 
new immunologic agents is daratumumab (DARA), a humanized antibody to CD38 with 
potent multifaceted antitumor activity. Phase I and II clinical trials have 
demonstrated significant reduction in serum M-protein and bone marrow plasma 
cell percentage in refractory patients, with an acceptable toxicity profile. 
Moreover, ex vivo studies have shown that DARA may be particularly useful in 
combination with currently used anti-myeloma agents. With a recent breakthrough 
drug designation by the US Food and Drug Administration, DARA shows promise as 
mono- and combination therapy for the treatment of relapsed/refractory multiple 
myeloma.