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Wolanskyj, Alexandra P.

Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic

Citations 46

FLT3 Mutation Predicts Worse Clinical Outcome of Relapsed Acute Myeloid Leukemia (rAML) Patients (Pts): Mayo Clinic Experience.
Keane, Niamh , Wolanskyj, Alexandra P., Elliott, Michelle A. , Litzow, Mark R. , Al‐Kali, Aref , Elkhanany, Ahmed , Hogan, William J.

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 120 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 2525-2525

10.1182/blood.v120.21.2525.2525 Get It

Abstract Abstract 2525 Background: Patients with relapsed AML have a very poor outcome. The molecular signature at diagnosis has emerged as a significant marker for prognostic, and possibly therapeutic, values in newly-diagnosed AML. FLT3 mutations are found in about 25–30% of AML pts. In the absence of FDA-approved agents for FLT3, the prognostic value of FLT3 mutation on clinical outcome for relapsed AML (rAML) is not well documented. Aim: To study clinical implications of FLT3 status on rAML. Methods: All adult pts with AML diagnosed and treated at Mayo Clinic between 2003–2011were studied. Retrospective data collection included pts' demographics, laboratory tests, bone marrow biopsies, FLT3 mutation (internal tandem duplication (ITD) and tyrosine kinase domain (TKD) mutation), and survival information. IRB approval was obtained in accordance with Helsinki declaration. Chi-Square and T-test were used for comparatives between groups and Kaplan-Meier test was applied for survival estimates using JMP 9.0 software. Results: A total of 192 pts with newly-diagnosed with AML were identified. Sixty percent (115) were males, 88% (168) were Caucasians, 26% (49) had antecedent hematological disease (AHD), and 13% (25) had previous exposure to chemo- or radiotherapy. Forty-seven percent had a normal chromosomal analysis, and 18% (35) had FLT3 mutation (28 ITD, 7 TKD). In FLT3-mutated pts, median WBC was 70 x109/L (p=0.0016), hemoglobin 9.5 g /dL, and platelets 48 x109/L, compared to 8.8 x109/L, 9.1 g/dL, 50 x109/L in the rest of pts, respectively. Peripheral blood blasts were elevated in FLT3-mutated group compared to rest of pts (p 0.0059). A total of 128 pts achieved complete remission (CR), with 79 (62%) subsequently relapsed. Of the relapsed patients, 93% (74) were Caucasians, 54% (43) males, 22% (17) had AHD, and 8% (6) had prior chemo- or radiotherapy. Cytogenetics were diploid in 49% (39) and complex in 15% (12). Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation was performed in 30% (24) of pts. Eleven of 79 (14%) pts were FLT3-mutated at relapse (Group 1); with 1 pt having TKD-mutation. Forty-eight percent (38) of pts had unmutated-FLT3 (Group 2), and 38% (30) pts were FLT3-unknown (Group 3). In group 1, median WBC was 9.9 x109/L, hemoglobin 10.55 g /dL, platelets 55 x109/L, compared to 3.2 x109/L (p=0.0034), 10.55 g/dL, and 58 x109/L in group 2, respectively. Peripheral blasts were significantly elevated in group 1 compared to group 2 (38% vs 4%, p <0.0001). Surprisingly, 3/11 pts (27%) with FLT3 mutation at relapse were unmutated at diagnosis. CR was achieved in 2/11 (18%) pts in group 1 compared to 15/38 (39%) in group 2 (p=0.19). Median overall survival in rAML was significantly lower in group 1 compared to group 2 (90 days vs 229 days, p 0.0076). This survival difference was statistically more significant in pts with diploid cytogenetics at relapse compared to the rest (p 0.0009 vs 0.48, respectively). Within 1.5 years, all pts in group 1 died, compared to 21% survived in group 2. Conclusion: FLT3-mutated AML pts had a significantly higher peripheral WBC and blasts at both diagnosis and relapse. Importantly, FLT3 at relapse was found to be mutated in one quarter of pts who were wild-type FLT3 at diagnosis; raising the importance of assessing FLT3 gene on all relapses. FLT3 mutation significantly predicted worse median overall survival in rAML raising the need for novel agents, such as FLT3 inhibitors, in this population. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Survival Trends in Essential Thrombocythemia in the Face of Changing Treatment Practices
Hussein, Ahmed Kamel Abou, Gangat, Naseema , Elala, Yoseph, Wolanskyj, Alexandra P., Hanson, Curtis A. , Pardanani, Animesh , Tefferi, Ayalew , Ketterling, Rhett P.

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 2805-2805

10.1182/blood.v126.23.2805.2805 Get It

Abstract Background : Hydroxyurea has been the mainstay of cytoreductive therapy in essential thrombocythemia (ET) for over four decades. In 1988, anagrelide was first reported as an effective drug in ET (Silverstein et al. NEJM 1988;318:1292) and hundreds of patients were enrolled in clinical trials, which subsequently led to FDA approval in 1997. As a result, an increasing number of patients with ET were being treated with anagrelide until a subsequent controlled study suggested an inferior treatment outcome with anagrelide compared to hydroxyurea (Harrison et al. NEJM 2005;353:33). In the current study, we examined the impact of the corresponding practice changes on overall, myelofibrosis-free and leukemia-free survival, by comparing patients with ET diagnosed before 1988, between 1988 and 1997, and between 1998 and 2005 Methods: More than 45,000 patient charts with "thrombocytosis" were reviewed to identify those who met either PVSG (older patient cohort) or WHO criteria for diagnosis of ET. Survival was calculated from time of initial diagnosis to the time of last follow-up or death. For leukemia- or fibrosis-free survival, the time of the transformation events was considered as the uncensored variable. Conventional statistics was utilized for all analyses. Patients were divided into three groups commensurate with changes in treatment practices, corresponding to the aforementioned publications; Group 1 patients were diagnosed prior to 1988 (n =222), Group 2 1988 to 1997 (n =253), and Group 3 1998 to 2005 (n =264). Results : A total of 739 patients met the above-stipulated criteria (median age 57 years; 65% females). At a median follow-up of 12.2 years (range: 0.01-43.6 years), 368 (50%) deaths, 48 (6.5%) fibrotic transformations and 23 (3%) leukemic transformations were documented. Median overall survival (OS) was 18.6 years. On multivariable analysis, older age (P <0.001), increased leukocyte count (P <0.001), thrombosis history (P =0.04), and male sex (P<0.0001) were identified as predictors of inferior OS. Myelofibrosis-free survival (MFS) was predicted by platelet count <100 x 10(9)/L and lower hemoglobin level (multivariate P values 0.03 and <0.001, respectively). Leukemia-free survival (LFS) was predicted by increased leukocyte count, on multivariable analysis (P =0.002). Comparison of presenting features and outcome by period of diagnosis: Significant differences, in presenting features, between groups 1, 2, and 3 included age (median 55, 56, and 59 years, respectively; P =0.003), female preponderance (68, 69, and 58%, respectively; P =0.02), platelet count (1080, 995, and 890 x 10(9)/L, respectively; P <0.001), and leukocyte count (10, 9.6, and 8.4 x 10(9)/L, respectively; P <0.001). Median survival was 20.7 years, 19 years and 14.3 years, in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively (P =0.02) (Figure 1). However, the difference in survival was no longer apparent during multivariable analysis that included age as a covariate (P=0.88). In univariate analysis, MFS was significantly shorter in group 3 patients (P=0.02; Figure 2); borderline significance was retained during multivariable analysis (p=0.13). LFS was similar among the three groups (P = 0.27). Conclusions : The results from the current retrospective study suggest increased rate of progression to myelofibrosis in ET patients diagnosed in the anagrelide era, an observation that is consistent with the results from a previous controlled study (Harrison et al. NEJM 2005;353:33). Regardless, survival in ET in the last four decades remains unchanged. Figure 1. Figure 1. Figure 2. Figure 2. Disclosures Pardanani: Stemline: Research Funding.
Lack of Efficacy of Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) Treatment In Acquired Idiopathic Sideroblastic Anemia, Including Refractory Anemia with Ring Sideroblasts
Kreuziger, Lisa M. Baumann, Wolanskyj, Alexandra P., Steensma, David P.

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 116 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 2919-2919

10.1182/blood.v116.21.2919.2919 Get It

Abstract Abstract 2919 Background: Sideroblastic anemias can be either hereditary due to congenital mutations in factors critical for iron processing or heme biosynthesis, or acquired; acquired sideroblastic anemias may be induced by alcohol or medications, but are usually idiopathic. Pyridoxine, a form of vitamin B6, plays a critical role in heme synthesis as a cofactor for δ-aminolevulinic acid synthetase (ALAS). Some subtypes of congenital sideroblastic anemia, such as those associated with mutations in the ALAS2 gene encoding the erythrocyte-expressed isoform of ALAS, may respond to pyridoxine therapy at doses ranging from 5–500 mg/day. Anecdotal reports of improvement with pyridoxine therapy in cases of acquired idiopathic sideroblastic anemia (AISA) have led to widespread clinical use of this agent in patients with refractory anemia with ring(ed) sideroblasts (RARS) and refractory cytopenia with multilineage dysplasia associated with ring sideroblasts (RCMD-RS). However, there are no systematic studies of the effectiveness of pyridoxine in AISA. Methods: We reviewed clinical and laboratory data from 231 adult patients with marrow aspirate-proven AISA (i.e., RARS or RCMD-RS, based on 2001 WHO criteria) evaluated at our institution between 1994 and 2007. Responses to pyridoxine were assessed using 2006 International Working Group (IWG) standardized criteria for MDS (erythroid response with hemoglobin increase by '1.5 mg/dl). The relationship between response to pyridoxine and disease subtype or International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS) stratification was assessed using χ2 test, using a p-value limit of <0.05 for statistical significance. Results: 86 of the 231 patients (42%) were treated with pyridoxine for an average of 19 months (range 1–114 months) at a mean dose of 167 mg/day (range 50–600 mg/day). Sufficient follow-up data to allow response evaluation were available from 74 (86%) of the 86 patients who received pyridoxine. Only 5/86 patients (6.8%) receiving pyridoxine met IWG response criteria for hematological improvement, but 3 of these 5 patients also received erythropoetin and 1 also received prednisone concomitantly with pyridoxine therapy. Therefore, only 1/86 (1.4%) patient's improvement in hemoglobin could be attributed to pyridoxine monotherapy. ALAS2 genotype data were not available from these 5 patients. The dose of pyridoxine was not associated with response to therapy (187.5 mg daily in responders vs. 157 mg daily in non-responders (p=0.60). Patients with RCMD-RS were more likely to be treated with vitamin B6 compared to patients with RARS (p=<0.001), possibly because of more severe anemia, but response to pyridoxine did not differ significantly between subtypes (3/49 vs. 2/25, response in RARS vs. RCMD-RS; p=0.76). Among the 74 evaluable patients, 3/46 patients in the low IPSS risk group responded to pyridoxine, compared to 2/24 of patients in the Intermediate-1 risk group and 0/4 in the Intermediate-2 risk group (p=0.82). Adverse effects associated with pyridoxine included new onset of irreversible symptomatic peripheral neuropathy in 2/86 patients (2.3%). Conclusions: Pyridoxine is commonly prescribed to patients with AISA in clinical practice, and this agent is often continued for a long period of time despite lack of evidence of objective response. Pyridoxine is an ineffective therapy in AISA that induces symptomatic peripheral neuropathy in some patients. Therefore, pyridoxine therapy should be limited to patients with known or suspected congenital mutations that confer pyridoxine responsiveness, and therapeutic trials should be brief to avoid adverse effects. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Management Of PICC-Associated Thrombosis In Patients Receiving Chemotherapy For Hematologic Malignancies
Al‐Kali, Aref , Ashrani, Aneel A. , Begna, Kebede H. , Elliott, Michelle A. , Hook, Carl C., Letendre, Louis, Litzow, Mark R. , Patnaik, Mrinal M. , Pardanani, Animesh , Tefferi, Ayalew , Wolanskyj, Alexandra P., Pruthi, Rajiv K. , Sridharan, Meera , Hogan, William J. , Kaufmann, Scott H.

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 122 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 5000-5000

10.1182/blood.v122.21.5000.5000 Get It

Abstract Background Tunneled central venous catheters have traditionally been used for administration of chemotherapy (chemo) for acute leukemia treatment. Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) are increasingly being used, but there is an increased risk of PICC-associated thrombosis (PAT). There is limited information on management of PAT in this subgroup of patients (pt). Methods In this retrospective cohort study we investigated the primary management of PICC related upper extremity venous thrombosis (TB) in pt with hematologic malignancy undergoing chemo at Mayo Clinic Rochester. Eligible pt were 18 years and older, had documentation of PICC placement at our institution, initiation of chemo within a week of PICC placement, and the TB was objectively documented by compression venous ultrasound (CVU). Superficial venous TB (SVT) was defined as TB of subcutaneous veins (basilic and cephalic) and deep venous TB (DVT) defined as TB of brachial, axillary, subclavian, or innominate superior vena cava and internal jugular veins. We retrospectively stratified initial management (IM) into 1) PICC removal alone (PR), 2) PR and therapeutic anticoagulation (AC), 3) AC alone, and 4) conservative management (CM) consisting of symptomatic care and observation. We also investigated factors influencing IM of PAT. Long term outcomes including incidence of pulmonary embolism (PE), post phlebitic syndrome and recurrence of TB were noted. Results Between 2006 and 2012, 190 pt with AML (n=160), MDS or MDS/MF (n=10), or ALL (n=20) met our study criteria. Overall, 40/190 (21.6%) developed PAT: AML n=38, ALL n=1, MDS/MF n=1. SVT occurred in 16/40 (40%) pt and DVT occurred in 24/40 (60%) pt. IM is shown in Table 1. One pt with SVT received AC for 6 weeks as well as PR. In this pt, IM included AC because of proximity of TB to deep veins. 7 pt had a follow up (f/u) CVU within 3 months demonstrating: TB progression (prog, n=1, IM with PR alone but with prog AC was started); TB stability (stab, n=2, both IM with PR alone) and TB resolution/improvement (R/I, n= 4, 2 IM with PR and 2 IM with CM) In the 5 pt with CM, 2 pt had f/u CVU demonstrating improvement, one pt had charted clinical improvement , and 2 pt had no charted clinical f/u. Of DVT pt on AC (n=14), 5 pt completed at least 2 months of AC. Reasons for early cessation (n=9) of AC included thrombocytopenia (tcp, n=4), hematoma (n=1), hematuria (n=1), subarachnoid hemorrhage (n=1), and unknown (n=1). One pt died 2 days after presence of DVT was noted. Two pt initially treated with PR alone developed a second TB with placement of a new PICC on contralateral arm and AC was subsequently initiated (duration: 3 months (n=1), and 8 days (n=1)). 14 pt with DVT had f/u CVU within 3 months which demonstrated prog (n=2), stab (n= 8), or R/I ( n=4) of TB (Table 2). The 2 pt with TB prog subsequently received longer term AC guided by platelet count. In 5 pt with PICC not initially removed, 3 pt had PR after completion of chemo. (1-4 days), one pt had PR at discharge (27 days from TB), and one pt had PICC in place on discharge. One pt with DVT experienced a PE within one year f/u. This pt had initially completed 3 days of AC which was stopped because of tcp. Conclusion In this cohort of patients with PAT, the most common IM consisted of PR, which appeared to result in a low recurrence rate among pt with SVT. In pt with DVT, the role of AC remains to be defined given the abbreviated course of AC in most pt. Though, the lack of CVU followup in all pt limits conclusions, there appeared to be a low rate of symptomatic prog. Initiation of AC was largely guided by platelet count and degree of occlusive symptoms. Thrombocytopenia was also the most commonly cited reason for discontinuing AC. Close clinical follow up aided by the use of CVU was integral to ensure that PAT did not lead to further adverse events. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Risk Stratification for Survival and Leukemic Transformation in Essential Thrombocythemia: A Single Institutional Study of 605 Patients.
Gangat, Naseema , Wolanskyj, Alexandra P., McClure, Rebecca F., Li, Chin Y., Schwager, Susan M., Tefferi, Ayalew , Wu, Wenting

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 108 | Issue: 11 | Pages: 3599-3599

10.1182/blood.v108.11.3599.3599 Get It

Abstract Background It is widely recognized that advanced age and prior thrombosis predict recurrent thrombosis in essential thrombocythemia (ET) and are used to risk-stratify patients. However, the paucity of large sample size and long-term follow-up has limited the development of similar prognostic models for survival and leukemic transformation (LT). Methods Data was abstracted from the medical records of a consecutive cohort of patients with WHO-defined ET seen at the Mayo Clinic. Cox proportional hazards was used to determine the impact of clinical and laboratory variables on survival and LT. Overall survival and leukemia-free survival was estimated by Kaplan-Meier plots. Results i. Patient characteristics and outcome The study cohort included 605 patients of which 399 (66%) were females (median age, 57 years; range 5–91). Median follow-up was 84 months (range; 0–424). During this period, 155 patients (26%) have died and LT was documented in 20 patients (3.3%) occurring at a median of 138 months (range; 23–422) from ET diagnosis. ii. Prognostic variables for overall survival Univariate analysis of parameters at diagnosis identified age ≥ 60 years, hemoglobin less than normal (defined as < 12 g/dL in females and < 13.5 g/dL in males), leukocyte count ≥ 15 x 109/L, tobacco use, diabetes mellitus, thrombosis, male sex, and the absence of microvascular symptoms as independent predictors of inferior survival. All of the above except the last two (i.e. male sex and the absence of microvascular symptoms) sustained their prognostic significance on multivariate analysis. Based on the first three prognostic variables: age, hemoglobin level, and leukocyte count, we constructed a prognostic model for survival: low-risk (none of the risk factors), intermediate-risk (1of 3 risk factors), and high-risk (≥ 2 risk factors). The respective median survivals were 278, 200, and 111 months (p<0.0001; Figure 1) iii. Prognostic variables for leukemic transformation On univariate analysis of parameters at ET diagnosis, LT was significantly associated with platelet count ≥ 1000 x 109/L, hemoglobin less than normal, and exposure to P-32. However, on multivariate analysis, only hemoglobin less than normal and platelet count ≥ 1000 x 109/L maintained independent prognostic value. Accordingly, we utilized these two variables, to construct a prognostic model for LT: low-risk (none of the risk factors), intermediate-risk (1 risk factor), and high-risk (both risk factors). Only 1 of the 239 patients (0.4%) in the low-risk group vs. 14 of the 289 (4.8%) in the intermediate-risk and 5 of the 77 (6.5%) in the high-risk group underwent LT (p=0.0009; Figure 2). Conclusion The current study provides clinician-friendly prognostic models for both survival and LT in ET. Figure 1 Figure 1. Figure 2 Figure 2.
Analysis of Serum Ferritin Levels As a Diagnostic Criteria for Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) in Hospitalized Adult Patients
Pham, Anthony , O’Byrne, Megan M., Kapoor, Prashant , Abraham, Roshini S. , Wolanskyj, Alexandra P., Shah, Meera , Go, Ronald S. , Parikh, Sameer A.

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 1014-1014

10.1182/blood.v126.23.1014.1014 Get It

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare disorder caused by the pathologic activation of the immune system. In children, either a molecular diagnosis consistent with HLH or five out of the following eight criteria are considered necessary for a diagnosis of HLH (HLH-04 criteria): 1) fever; 2) splenomegaly; 3) cytopenia in two or more cell lines; 4) hypertriglyceridemia (≥265 mg/dL) or hypofibrinogenemia (≤150 mg/dL); 5) hemophagocytosis in the bone marrow, spleen, or lymph nodes; 6) hyperferritinemia (≥500 mcg/L); 7) impaired NK cell function; and 8) elevated soluble CD25 (sCD25). These criteria have been extrapolated to diagnose HLH in adults; however, it's unclear if these same criteria are applicable in the adult population. METHODS: We reviewed the Mayo Clinic electronic medical record for all adult (≥18 years) hospitalized patients with an admission serum ferritin of ≥500 mcg/L from January 2012 through December 2014. Patients' charts were reviewed and those who met the HLH-04 criteria were considered to have HLH. For the remainder of the patients, the etiology for hyperferritinemia was determined based on chart review and discharge diagnoses. Logistic regression models were used to assess the ability of these values in predicting a diagnosis of HLH. The Mayo Clinic IRB approved this study. RESULTS: We identified 1,329 patients with a serum ferritin ≥500 mcg/L. Of these, HLH was diagnosed in 28 (2.1%) patients (malignancy-associated HLH in 11 patients, infection-associated HLH in 4 patients, autoimmune-associated HLH in 7 patients, and idiopathic HLH in 6 patients). Table 1 describes the etiology of hyperferritinemia in the remaining 1,301 patients. In contrast to pediatric hospitalized patients (Allen, Pediatr Blood Cancer, 2008), adults are more likely to have malignancy (28.1% vs 7%; p<0.05); bacterial infection (21% vs. 13%; p=0.001); liver disease (9.9% vs. 2.7%; p<0.05); and cardiac disease (7.2% vs. 1.5%; p=0.0001) as the etiology of hyperferritinemia during their hospitalization. Among all patients in the study, the following variables were associated with higher odds of having HLH compared to hyperferritinemia due to an alternate cause: elevated ferritin (odds ratio [OR] 35.97, p<0.01); thrombocytopenia (OR 15.22, p<0.01), cytopenias defined by HLH-04 criteria (OR 8.04, p<0.01); elevated admission serum bilirubin (OR 1.05, p=0.02); and peak serum bilirubin (OR 1.05, p<0.01). After stepwise selection in multivariate analysis, serum ferritin ≥2,600 mcg/L and platelets ≤100 x 109/L were independently associated with HLH diagnosis (OR 24.9 and 7.8 respectively; p<0.01 for both). The area under the curve (AUC or c-statistic) ranges from 0.5 for no ability to discriminate, to 1.0 for perfect discrimination; this model has an AUC of 0.91, which shows very good discrimination between cases and controls. An adult hospitalized patient with a combination of serum ferritin ≥2,600 mcg/L and platelets ≤100x109/L predicts a ~200 fold increased likelihood of being diagnosed with HLH as compared to hospitalized adult meeting neither of these criteria (Figures 1 and 2). CONCLUSION: In contrast to hospitalized pediatric patients, the etiology of hyperferritinemia in adults is more likely to be malignancy, bacterial infection, liver disease, and cardiac disease. We conclude that a combination of serum ferritin ≥2,600 mcg/L and platelet count ≤100 x 109/L can be used as screening criteria to help identify adult patients most likely to have HLH. The traditional 5/8 criteria to diagnose HLH in pediatric patients do not appear necessary for establishing a diagnosis of HLH in adult patients. These observations need replication in an independent data set prior to broader applicability. Table 1.Patients with ferritin > 500 mcg/L with underlying cause for elevation.Number Diagnosed (%)Cardiac Disease95 (7.2%)Liver Disease131 (9.9%)Renal Disease87 (6.6%)Infectious343 (25.8%)Malignancy373 (28.1%)Autoimmune118 (8.9%)Solid Organ Transplant34 (2.6%)Stem Cell Transplant16 (1.2%)Bone Marrow Failure9 (0.7%)Shock39 (2.9%)Idiopathic53 (4.0%)Hemoglobinopathies3 (0.2%) Figure 1. ROC curve for the multivariable model with ferritin > 2,600 (yes/no) and platelets below 100,000 (yes/no) in the model with a very good discrimination c-statistic of 0.91. Figure 1. ROC curve for the multivariable model with ferritin > 2,600 (yes/no) and platelets below 100,000 (yes/no) in the model with a very good discrimination c-statistic of 0.91. Figure 2. Figure 2. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
NPM1+/FLT3- Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) Have Excellent Clinical Outcome Independent of Age When Treated with Cytotoxic Chemotherapy: Mayo Clinic Experience
Torghabeh, Mehrdad Hefazi, Patnaik, Mrinal M. , Wolanskyj, Alexandra P., Zblewski, Darci, Elliott, Michelle A. , Litzow, Mark R. , Al‐Kali, Aref , Hefazi, Mehrdad , Siddiqui, Mustaqeem , Hogan, William J.

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 124 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 5331-5331

10.1182/blood.v124.21.5331.5331 Get It

Abstract Background: Molecular profiling has revolutionized the field of hematology, and in particular myeloid neoplasms. NPM1+/FLT3- mutational status has been shown to have a favorable prognostic impact in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, little is known about its interaction with age. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the overall survival (OS) in newly diagnosed AML patients, whose FLT3 and NPM1 data were available, and were treated with cytotoxic chemotherapy at our institution between 2003 and 2013. Patients 18 to 60 years of age were categorized as adult, and those above 60 years were classified as elderly. Each of the elderly or adult groups were further divided according to the presence or absence of combined NPM1+/FLT3- mutational status. Estimated probabilities of overall survival were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method, with the log-rank test to compare groups. Demographics and continuous variables were compared using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. Appropriate IRB approval was obtained. Results: Out of 835 patients with AML, 86 patients with both known FLT3/NPM1 mutation status and receiving induction chemotherapy were found. NPM1+/FLT3- mutational status was present in 11 elderly (median age 68 yr, hemoglobin (Hb) 8.7 g/dL, white blood cells (WBC) 9.6 x109/L, platelets (PLT) 100 x109/L, peripheral blood blasts percentage (PB%) 31), and in 11 adult patients (median age 49 years, Hb 9.1 g/dL, WBC 14 x109/L, PLT 67 x109/L, and PB% 21). Twenty-eight elderly patients (median age 66 yr, Hb 9.4 g/dl, WBC 15.7 x109/L, PLT 66 x109/L, and PB% 33), and 36 adult patients (median age 49 years, Hb 9.1 g/dL, WBC 14 x109/L, PLT 67 x109/L, and PB% 21) were carrying genotypes other than NPM1+/FlT3-. There was no statistical significant difference in the median age, Hb, WBC, PLT, and PB% at the time of diagnosis. Out of 86 patients, 79 had intermediate, 6 had adverse, and 1 had favorable cytogenetic risk. All elderly and adult patients with NPM1+/FLT3- genotype had intermediate risk cytogenetics. When treated with cytotoxic chemotherapy, elderly patients with NPM1+/FLT3- genotype demonstrated a significantly better overall survival compared to elderly patients without this genotypes (p=0.015), and interestingly also to adult AML carrying other genotypes (p=0.028). Surprisingly, there was not an improved survival in adults with NPM1+/FLT3- genotype compared to adults carrying other genotypes (p=0.14), but this may have been related to the small numbers in each group. No significant difference in the overall survival was observed between elderly and adult patients who were carrying NPM1+/FLT3- mutational status (p=0.4). The estimated 5-year survival rates for elderly with and without NPM1+/FLT3- status were 71% vs. 14%, and for adults with and without this genotype were 49% vs. 19%, respectively. Conclusion: Age does not have an impact on the OS in AML patients with NPM1+/FLT3- mutational status, arguing strongly for intense chemotherapy in this group. Elderly AML patients with NPM1+/FLT3- genotype have a superior OS compared to both adult and elderly patients carrying other genotypes, when treated with cytotoxic chemotherapy. Further validation in large prospective studies is warranted. Figure 1 Figure 1. Figure 2 Figure 2. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Outcome of Adult Patients with Hemophagocytic Syndrome: A Tertiary Care Center Experience
Kapoor, Prashant , Kumar, Shaji , Letendre, Louis, Wolanskyj, Alexandra P., Parikh, Sameer A.

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 120 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 1040-1040

10.1182/blood.v120.21.1040.1040 Get It

Abstract Abstract 1040 Introduction: Hemophagocytic syndrome (HPS) is a rare disorder characterized by fever, splenomegaly, cytopenias, hypofibrinogenemia, hyperferritinemia and hemophagocytosis in the bone marrow or lymph nodes. It is caused by pathologic activation of the immune system, and manifests clinically with signs and symptoms related to extreme inflammation. Primary HPS or familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) occurs predominantly in children (<18 years) due to inherited defects in natural killer and cytotoxic T-cell function. Secondary HPS generally occurs in adults (>18 years) and is precipitated by autoimmune disorders, malignancy and a variety of infections. The results of HLH-94 trial, the largest prospective study in pediatric patients with HLH, reported an estimated 5-year survival of 54%. There is a paucity of information about HPS in adult patients. Methods: Records of all adult (≥ 18 years) patients with a diagnosis of “hemophagocytosis“ or “hemophagocytic syndrome” presenting from January 1996 through December 2011 at Mayo Clinic were reviewed. Our hematopathology database was also analyzed for patients bearing a diagnosis of HPS. Out of a total of 127 patients identified in the database, 50 adult patients were diagnosed to have HPS as per the diagnostic criteria of the HLH-1994 trial (for patients seen prior to 2004), and HLH-2004 trial (for patients seen after 2004). This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board at Mayo Clinic. Results: Baseline characteristics of all patients are shown in Table 1. The median time to diagnosis from the onset of symptoms was 38 days (4–158 days). Secondary HPS was diagnosed in 46 (92%) patients. The causes of secondary HPS are shown in Table 2. Twenty (40%) patients were treated with etoposide containing regimen, 26 (52%) were treated with therapeutic agents directed specifically to the underlying precipitating disease, and 4 (8%) patients did not receive any treatment. No patient in our study underwent a stem cell transplant (SCT). After a median follow-up of 43 months, 36 (72%) patients have died. The causes of death were infection (47%), malignancy (42%), bleeding (8%) and unknown (3%). The median overall survival (OS) for the entire cohort was 1.5 months (95% CI, 0.7–4.5 months). The median OS for patients with malignancy- related HPS was 0.8 months (95% CI, 0.4–2.4 months) compared to 11 months (95% CI, 0.7-not reached) for patients with non-malignancy related HPS (p-value:0.006; Figure). On univariableanalysis, factors associated with a worse survival were serum albumin <2 g/dL (hazard ratio, 8.3), malignancy-related HPS (hazard ratio, 7.3) and serum creatinine >1.3 mg/dL (hazard ratio, 3.8). Conclusion: In this large series of adult HPS patients treated at a single tertiary care center, most cases are secondary, and are associated with a worse survival compared to historical outcomes reported for children enrolled on the HLH-94 trial. This is likely related to a marked delay in referral to our institution, and high early mortality precluding consideration of SCT. Adult patients with malignancy- related HPS in this study had a markedly inferior outcome compared to patients with non-malignancy related HPS. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Clinico-Pathological Features and Outcomes in Patients with Congenital Sideroblastic Anemias
Schmelkin, Leah A., Howard, Matthew T., Rodriguez, Vilmarie , Khan, Shakila P. , Gangat, Naseema , Wolanskyj, Alexandra P., Patnaik, Mrinal M. , Steensma, David P. , Fleming, Mark D.

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 3355-3355

10.1182/blood.v126.23.3355.3355 Get It

Abstract Background: Ring sideroblasts (RS) are erythroid precursors with perinuclear mitochondrial iron accumulation seen in clonal disorders, such as myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), and non-clonal conditions, including copper deficiency, lead poisoning, and congenital sideroblastic anemias (CSAs). CSAs involve a broad clinical and pathological spectrum related to mutations in ALAS2, ABCB7, etc. or mitochondrial aberrations (Pearson Syndrome; Myopathy, Lactic Acidosis and Sideroblastic Anemia (MLASA); etc.). MDS-RS is often associated with SF3B1 mutations, which have not been reported in other SAs. This study sought to further describe the characteristics and outcomes of patients with CSAs. Methods: After due IRB approval, we retrospectively identified all patients with a CSA diagnosis seen at our institution from 1990-2014. All bone marrow (BM) slides were re-reviewed to confirm the presence of RS. Secondary causes of SA were excluded. Genetic testing on the BM specimen was carried out when possible through research collaborations with the Boston Children's Hospital. Data was retrospectively extracted and is reported in Table 1. Data was analyzed based on the presence or absence of mitochondrial inheritance. Results: Seventeen patients with CSA were identified, 3 (17.6%) with mitochondrial inheritance. In the non-mitochondrial inheritance group, the median age at diagnosis was 29 years (range, 1-61 years). Six (42.9%) were males. At a median follow-up of 119 months (range, 1-401 months), 1 (7.1%) death was documented. The median overall survival (OS) has not been reached. Six of 14 (42.9%) underwent genetic testing, and a mutation was identified in 4 (ALAS -2, FECH -1, and a novel mutation, currently being validated). Six of 6 (100%) samples analyzed for SF3B1 mutations were negative. Median laboratory values at diagnosis included hemoglobin 9.5 g/dL, MCV 85.8, WBC 6.4, and platelets 297,000. Three (21.4%) patients had splenomegaly. Nine (64.3%) had iron overload; 3 (33%) were treated with iron chelation therapy, with only 1 documented response (≥ 500 µg/L reduction in serum ferritin). Twelve (85.7%) were treated with pyridoxine. Outcomes of pyridoxine treatment are described in Table 1. Three of 14 (21.4%) received red blood cell transfusions, and 3 (21.4%) received erythropoiesis stimulating agents (ESA). One (7.1%) patient underwent allogeneic stem cell transplant. Three patients had SAs of mitochondrial inheritance; aberrations were identified in 2 (YARS2 and a 4 kilobase mitochondrial deletion). In this group, the median age at diagnosis was 2 years (range, 1-13 years), and all were males. At a median follow-up of 173 months (range, 119-329 months), 2 (66.7%) deaths were documented. Median laboratory values at diagnosis included hemoglobin 9.0 g/dL, MCV 97.0, WBC 5.2, and platelets 175,000. Conclusions: Congenital SAs are rare, and the majority are of non-mitochondrial inheritance. The molecular basis for disease can be ascertained in less than 50% of patients. Unlike MDS with RS, CSAs are not characterized by the SF3B1 mutation, which may be used to establish clonality. With appropriate supportive care measures, survival for non-mitochondrially inherited CSA remains favorable. Table 1. Demographics and Outcomes for 17 Patients with CSA Age at Diagnosis (Years) Gender Molecular Mutation Additional Features Pyridoxine Response Iron Overload Survival (Months) Outcomes Non-Mitochondrial Inheritance 5 M R452H in ALAS2 N Y2 Y 173 Alive3 3 M Mutation being validated Splenomegaly Y2 Y 254 Alive3 6 M Unknown, PTPN11, ALAS 2, ABCB7 negative Splenomegaly N Y 137 Alive, status-post transplant 29 F Unknown1 N N/A N 131 Alive3 41 F Unknown1 N Y2 N 83 Alive4 40 M Promoter mutation in ALAS2 Splenomegaly N N 106 Alive4 31 F Unknown1 N N Y 401 Deceased 54 M Unknown1 N Lost to follow-up Y 1 Alive3 3 M FECH N N/A N 189 Alive3 1 F SCAD -VUS N Lost to follow-up Y 13 Alive3 29 F Unknown1 N N Y 205 Alive3 58 F Unknown1 N N Y 47 Alive, unknown transfusion status 61 F Unknown1 N Y2 Y 58 Alive3 23 F Unknown1 Alpha-thalassemia-2-trait Y2 N 37 Alive3 Mitochondrial Inheritance 13 M YARS2 MLASA N Y 329 Alive4 2 M Unknown, mitochondrial deletions and ABCB7 negative Myopathy, Ataxia N/A N 173 Deceased 1 M 4 kilobase mitochondrial deletion Pearson Syndrome, B cell lymphoma Y2 N 119 Deceased 1No molecular testing performed 2Sustained hemoglobin response of ≥ 1 g/dL over baseline for ≥ 12 weeks 3Transfusion-independent 4Transfusion-dependent Disclosures Steensma: Incyte: Consultancy; Onconova: Consultancy; Amgen: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy.
A Phase II Study of CC-5013 Treatment for Myelofibrosis with Myeloid Metaplasia: A Preliminary Report.
Tefferi, Ayalew , Wolanskyj, Alexandra P., Shaw, Trudy A., Reyes, Gayle E., Hoering, Antje , McClure, Rebecca F., Hogan, William J. , Mesa, Ruben A.

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 104 | Issue: 11 | Pages: 1505-1505

10.1182/blood.v104.11.1505.1505 Get It

Abstract Background : CC-5013 (Revlimid™) is an immunomodulatory analog of thalidomide that is substantially more potent than the parent drug in terms of both anti-angiogenic and anti-TNF-α activity. CC-5013 has shown therapeutic activity in thalidomide-responsive hematological malignancies including relapsed multiple myeloma (Blood2002;100:3063) and myelodysplastic syndrome (Blood2002;100:96a). Myelofibrosis with myeloid metaplasia (MMM) has also been shown to respond to thalidomide (BJH2002;117:288). Furthermore, both angiogenesis and altered TNF-α activity have been pathogenetically implicated in MMM. Methods : The current report considers the first 15 patients in an ongoing phase II treatment trial of single agent CC-5013 in MMM based on a minimum of 3 month follow-up from day 1 of protocol treatment. Study eligibility criteria included no concomitant MMM-directed therapy, a hemoglobin (Hgb) level of < 10 g/dL, an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of ≥ 1 x 109/L, and a platelet count of ≥ 100 x 109/L. Previous thalidomide therapy in the absence of high-grade skin toxicity was allowed. All patients were started with daily oral CC-5013 (10 mg/day) to be taken for three 28-day treatment cycles. Three additional treament cycles were planned in case of anemia response. Results : Median age was 64 years (range, 40–75) and 10 pts were males. Twelve of the 15 study pts (80%) were red cell transfusion-dependent, 14 (93%) were previously treated including 12 with cytoreductive and 4 with thalidomide therapy. The spleen was palpably enlarged in 13 pts (median 18 cm, range 7–23). Eight of the 15 pts (53%) successfully completed 3 months of protocol treatment. Treatment was discontinued in the remaining 7 pts because of drug toxicity (2 pts), disease progression (1 pt), other co-morbid condition (3 pts), or patient discretion (1 pt). Treatment response data : Clinically relevant responses were documented in 4 patients (27%) and consisted of measurable improvements in anemia (2 pts), splenomegaly (2 pts), and/or constitutional symptoms (3 pts). One pt experienced an increase in Hgb level from 8.3 to 13.4 g/dL, a decrease in leukocyte count from 66.2 to 7.7 x 109/L, and complete resolution of myelophthisis including disapperance of circulating blasts that measured 9% before treatment. Another pt became transfusion-independent (Hgb level increased to > 10 g/dL) as well as enjoyed a profound improvement in constitutional symptoms. Interestingly, serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level decreased in 11 pts (73%) to either within the normal ramge (5 pts) or by more than 30 % (6 pts). Treatment toxicity data : Grade 3 or 4 adverse events that were possibly, probably, or definitely attributed to CC-5013 included rash (2 pts), neutropenia (5 pts), thrombocytopenia (3 pts), and fatigue (2 pts). In addition, 3 patients experienced drug-associated extreme thrombocytosis while a histologically-proven disseminated extramedullary hematopoiesis was documented in one patient after one month of CC-5013 treatment. Conclusion : The current preliminary report suggests a substantial biological activity of CC-5013 in MMM with a therapeutic potential for a subset of patients. Additional studies with a longer duration of therapy, different dose schedules, and combinations of CC-5013 and corticosteroids are warranted.