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Mıkhael, Joseph

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9670-2864

Mayo Clinic

Translational Genomics Research Institute

Citations 130

Phase I-II Trial of Oral Cyclophosphamide, Prednisone and Lenalidomide (Revlimid®) (CPR) for the Treatment of Patients with Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma.
Reece, Donna , Khan, Arooj , Dean, Saima, Anglin, Peter, Chen, Christine , Kukreti, Vishal , Trudel, Suzanne , Masih‐Khan, Esther , Mıkhael, Joseph

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 114 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 1874-1874

10.1182/blood.v114.22.1874.1874 Get It

Abstract Abstract 1874 Poster Board I-899 Lenalidomide (Revlimid®) and dexamethasone is an effective regimen in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (MM) patients (pts), with an overall response rate of 60.6% and median time to progression (TTP) of 13.4 months (Dimopoulos MA, et al, Leukemia 2009 Jul 23 [Epub ahead of print]). Oral cyclophosphamide and prednisone is an older regimen with excellent patient tolerance, and we sought to enhance the efficacy of lenalidomide by adding oral cyclophosphamide and prednisone in this phase I-II trial. The CPR regimen consisted of cyclophosphamide on days 1, 8 and 15; lenalidomide on days 1–21; and prednisone 100 mg every other day in a 28 day cycle. ASA 81 mg/day was given to all pts as DVT prophylaxis. Three dose levels were evaluated using a 3 by 3 dose escalation design. Between 11/2007–07/2009, 31 pts with relapsed/refractory MM who had not previously received lenalidomide were entered onto study. Median age was 61 (40–78) years and 61% were male. Immunoglobulin subtype was IgG in 19 pts (61%), IgA in 8 pts (26%) and light chain only in 4 pts (13%). Median number of prior regimens was 2 (1–5) and 28 pts had undergone previous ASCT, including double transplants in 6 pts. Prior therapy included thalidomide in 9 (29%) and bortezomib in 15 (48%). FISH cytogenetics were available in 13 pts; one had 13q deletion but none had t(4;14) or p53 deletion. At the time of protocol entry, median β 2-microglobulin level was 246 (92–767) nm/L, albumin 39 (34–48) g/L, creatinine 83 (50–126) μmol/L, platelet count 230 (75–337) × 109/L and ANC 2.5 (1.1–6.1) x 109/L. Protocol treatment is summarized in Table 1. Dose limiting toxicity was not observed during cycle 1 at any dose level. Grade 3–4 toxicities included thrombocytopenia in 5 pts (16%) and neutropenia in 9 pts (29%). These were managed with dose reduction and/or growth factor support. Four episodes of febrile neutropenia occurred. Other grade 3–4 non-hematologic toxicities included abdominal pain/bacteremia in 1 pt in cohort 1; hypokalemia in 1 pt in cohort 2; and DVT in 2 pts, dizziness in 2 pts and fatigue in 1 pt in cohort 3. Using the International uniform response criteria (Durie BG, et al, Leukemia 2006; 20:1467–1473), the best response was documented at a median of 6 (1–5) cycles and included the following: dose level 1 (1 CR, 2 PR); dose level 2 (1 VGPR, 2 PR); dose level 3 (5 CR, 9 VGPR, 9 PR, 1 MR and 1 stable disease). At a median follow-up (F/U) of 12 (8–21) months, 20 pts remain on study, 2 have withdrawn and 9 pts have progressed at a median of 9 (4–13) months; only 1 one has died (due to MM). We conclude: 1) the combination of full doses of the agents in CPR can be given in a 28 day cycle with minimal toxicity; 2) the overall response rate (CR + VGPR + PR) in 31 pts to date is 93%; 3) at a median F/U of 1 year, only 9 pts (29%) have progressed; 4) longer follow-up is required to assess the TTP and survival of the CPR regimen. Disclosures: Reece: Celgene: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Off Label Use: Lenalidomide in combination with drugs other than dexamethasone. Anglin:Celgene: Honoraria. Chen:Celgene: Honoraria, Research Funding. Kukreti:Celgene: Honoraria. Mikhael:Celgene: Honoraria. Trudel:Celgene: Honoraria.
Increased Incidence of Extramedullary Plasmacytomas In Patients with Multiple Myeloma In the Era of Novel Therapy and Effect of Pomalidomide on Extramedullary Disease
Short, Kristen Detweiler, Hayman, Suzanne R. , Kumar, Shaji , Kyle, Robert A. , Lacy, Martha Q. , Rajkumar, S. Vincent , Buadi, Francis K. , Larson, Dirk R. , Dispenzieri, Angela , Gertz, Morie A. , Mıkhael, Joseph , Roy, Vivek

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 116 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 3047-3047

10.1182/blood.v116.21.3047.3047 Get It

Abstract Abstract 3047 Background: There is concern about the increased incidence of extramedullary plasmacytomas among patients with multiple myeloma (MM) in recent years (Varettoni et al Annals of Oncology 21: 325–330, 2010). There is controversy about whether novel agents increase the risk of extramedullary disease (EMD). EMD may be associated with decreased overall survival in MM. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of true, treatment-emergent EMD in MM among a cohort of patients who have been previously exposed to novel agent (thalidomide, lenalidomide, or bortezomib) therapy, and to evaluate the activity of pomalidomide in patients with EMD. Methods: We examined 174 consecutive patients with relapsed refractory multiple myeloma that were enrolled on a phase II clinical trial of pomalidomide plus low-dose dexamethasone. The study cohort was chosen since all patients had previously been exposed to novel agents, and were followed systematically. We adopted a strict definition of EMD which required that in order to be considered extramedullary, plasmacytomas must not have risen from any bone. Thus, masses arising from the bone with a soft tissue component were not considered extramedullary. Results: Of 174 patients studied, 16 patients (9.2%) had EMD prior to enrollment. In 3 of the 16 patients, EMD was present at time of diagnosis and was therefore not considered as treatment-emergent disease for this analysis. In 13 of 174 patients (7.5%) EMD developed during the course of MM, after starting therapy. All 13 patients by inclusion criteria were exposed to novel agents prior to the onset of EMD, including 100% to immunomodulatory agents (thalidomide or lenalidomide); and 78% (10 patients) were exposed to bortezomib prior to developing EMD. The median number of lines of prior therapy in these patients was 6, range 1–12). EMD occurred a median of 48 months following diagnosis (range, 16–183 months); the rate of EMD in the first 3 years following diagnosis of MM was 3%. Since all patients had prior exposure to immunomodulatory agents in this cohort, we were able to calculate the median length of time from initiation of immunomodulatory agents to onset of EMD as 24 months (range 7–119 months). The EMD sites involved included the temporal area soft tissue (3), muscle (3 [1 pt with 10 different areas of involvement, 1 pt with 5 muscles involved]), chest wall not attached to bone (3), abdominal/pelvic masses (3), kidney (2), scrotum (2), sinus (1), paraspinal (1), hilar/pleural based (1), paraesophageal (1), subcutaneous tissue (1), pancreas (1), spleen (1), mediastinum (1), pleural fluid (1), liver (1). Per protocol, all patients received pomalidomide (2-4 mg per day) and low dose dexamethasone (40 mg once a week). Of the 13 patients, there were 2 CR (with complete disappearance of EMD), 2 PR, 2 stable disease, 3 with progressive disease, and 4 patients who did not have their EMD re-evaluated. Thirty percent (n=4) of patients had a 50% or greater reduction in size of the EMD including one patient who received concomitant radiation. Overall survival from measured from trial entry was significantly shorter for patients who presented with EMD compared to those who did not have EMD, median 16 months versus not reached, p=0.002 (log-rank). Conclusion: We found that 7.5% of patients with relapsed refractory myeloma in the era of novel agents develop EMD during the course of their myeloma, including 3% within 3 years of diagnosis. The underlying reasons for the possible increased incidence of EMD may include better radiographic detection (the role of PET/CT scans and MRI), improved overall survival of patients in recent years, and the possibility that novel agents may increase the risk for strictly defined, true EMD among patients who did not have EMD at time of initial MM diagnosis. These need further study. Disclosures: Dispenzieri: Celgene: Honoraria, Research Funding; Binding Site: Honoraria. Gertz:Celgene: Honoraria; Millennium: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Kumar:Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Millennium: Research Funding; Merck: Consultancy, Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding; Genzyme: Consultancy, Research Funding; Cephalon: Research Funding.
Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation (allo-SCT) for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): Low Incidence of Relapse and Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD) in Patients (pts) Transplanted without Active Leukemia Using in-Vivo T-Cell Depletion with Rabbit Anti-Thymocyte
Slack, James L., Leis, José F., Reeder, Craig B. , Noël, Pierre, Betcher, Jeffrey, Peterson, Mary , Higgins, Meagan S., Gillette-Kent, Ginger, Tremblay, Lisa D., Olsen, Jane, Adams, Roberta H. , Mıkhael, Joseph , Tibes, Raoul , Mesa, Ruben A.

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 118 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 4527-4527

10.1182/blood.v118.21.4527.4527 Get It

Abstract Abstract 4527 Introduction: The prognosis for pts with intermediate or high risk AML remains dismal, with relapse rates typically in the 60–80% range after treatment with chemotherapy alone. While allo-SCT can decrease the risk of relapse to 10–20%, widespread use of this modality is limited by relatively high rates of non-relapse mortality (NRM), often due to severe acute and/or chronic GVHD. Attenuation of severe GVHD, without a concomitant increase in relapse or NRM, should improve outcomes and result in cure of a larger fraction of AML pts. We therefore investigated the use of in-vivo T-cell depletion with r-ATG in pts with intermediate- or high-risk AML but without active leukemia at the time of allo-SCT. Patients and Methods: Pts (n = 43) were included in this retrospective analysis if they were between 18 and 65 years of age and had no evidence of active AML at the time of allo-SCT (see Table). All pts had 1 or more high-risk features: 1) adverse or intermediate risk cytogenetics (without NPM1 mutation if cytogenetically normal); 2) therapy-related or secondary AML; 3) high WBC count at diagnosis; 4) failure to achieve CR after 1 cycle of induction; or 5) not in CR1 at allo-SCT. Among the 43 pts, 10 received grafts from related donors, 14 from 10/10 matched unrelated donors (URDs), and 19 from mismatched URDs (9/10, n = 11; 8/10, n = 8). All pts received r-ATG according to institutional standard operating policy, with doses ranging from 2.5 – 10 mg/kg depending on donor type and degree of mismatch. All transplants were performed using PBSC. Additional GVHD prophylaxis included tacrolimus plus either methotrexate or mycophenolate mofetil. Results: The median age was 47 (range 20 – 65), and median follow-up for surviving pts is 12 (range 1 – 66) months. As of 8/5/11, 39 pts were alive, and 4 had died from multiorgan failure (n = 1), relapse (n = 1), GVHD (n = 1), and veno-occlusive disease (n = 1). The 2-year estimate of PFS is 84.7% (Fig. 1). The 2-year cumulative incidence of relapse is 6.8% (2 pts, days 97 and 147), and of non-relapse mortality 9.4%. Three pts developed severe (grades III-IV) acute GVHD by day 100 (cumulative incidence 4.6% at day 100) with no additional cases of severe acute GVHD beyond day 100. To date, 4 pts have developed moderate/severe chronic GVHD (cumulative incidence 16.8% at 2 yrs), with one death at day 344 related to complications of acute and chronic GVHD. CMV reactivation occurred in 29 pts (56%), with no deaths related to CMV. Three pts have reactivated EBV, with one case of PTLD (all treated with Rituximab). Conclusions: In this retrospective analysis of single center data, the inclusion of r-ATG in the GVHD prophylactic strategy appeared to significantly attenuate the incidence and severity of both acute and chronic GVHD. Although follow-up is relatively early, the incidence of relapse and NRM does not appear to be increased compared to contemporaneous pts treated without ATG. Given that almost half of the pts received grafts from mismatched URDs, this abrogation in risk of GVHD is significant and clinically relevant. While randomized studies are needed, these data suggest that in-vivo T-cell depletion with r-ATG ameliorates severe GVHD, without increasing relapse or non-relapse mortality, in AML pts without overt leukemia at the time of allo-SCT. Using this strategy, cure rates of 70 – 80% may be realistic and attainable for younger (</= age 65) AML patients who achieve a leukemia-free state and who have a reasonably matched related or unrelated donor. Disclosures: Reeder: Celgene: Research Funding; Millennium Pharmaceuticals Inc.: Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding.
High-Dose Melphalan for AL Amyloidosis: The Importance of Case Selection to Improve Clinical Outcomes
Franke, Norman, Delgado, Diego , Stewart, Keith, Reece, Donna , Trudel, Suzanne , Chen, Christine , Kukreti, Vishal , Jimenez-Zepeda, Victor Hugo , Winter, Andrew, Mıkhael, Joseph

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 116 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 2403-2403

10.1182/blood.v116.21.2403.2403 Get It

Abstract Abstract 2403 Immunoglobulin light chain amyloidosis (AL) is a monoclonal plasma cell disorder characterized by the accumulation of monoclonal light chain fragments that have undergone a conformational transformation and deposit as amyloid fibrils in different tissues. High-dose melphalan (HDM) with autologous hematopoietic stem-cell transplant (ASCT) is increasingly used to treat patients (pts) with AL Amyloidosis. However, transplant-related mortality (TRM) is high, ranging between 13% to 43%. The survival benefit of HDM has been attributed to a patient-selection bias. Recently, a randomized clinical trial by Jaccard A et al, showed longer survival in the group assigned to receive melphalan plus dexamethasone (Mel/Dex) than in the group assigned to receive HDM. The present is a retrospective study aiming to define which pts with AL are most likely to benefit from HDM. Patients and Methods We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all the pts included in the Princess Margaret Hospital Amyloidosis Database who underwent ASCT from January 2004 to March 2010 to determine: a) TRM, b) Hematological response (HR) and Organ response (OR) and c) Overall survival (OS). We included transplanted pts who had received no more than two previous courses of any chemotherapy regimen who did not have concurrent myeloma, and who had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance-status score of 2 or better. As part of the ASCT the stem cells were obtained from the peripheral blood with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) alone (5 μ g/kg subcutaneously, twice daily). Pts then received HDM, 200 mg/m2 given intravenously on day 0, and stem cells were infused on day 1. The HDM was reduced to 140 mg/m2 for pts 65 years of age or older and for those with an important decrease of the ejection fraction, a calculated creatinine clearance of less than 30 ml per minute, or severe liver disease. HR and OR was assessed using 2004 Amyloidosis Consensus Response Criteria (Gertz, M et al, 2004). For statistical evaluation, HR was defined as observing complete or partial remission (CR or PR); stable disease (SD) or progression was considered as no HR. All statistical tests were 2-sided X2 t test and P values less than .05 were considered to be statistically significant. Results Seventy seven pts were evaluated with a median age of 56 years (33-74). Clinical characteristics are seen in Table 1. Only 18/77 pts (23%) received induction therapy: Dexamethasone alone n=9, Cyclophosphamide and Prednisone n=2, Mel/Dex n=4, VAD n=2 and Melphalan and Prednisone n=1. TRM observed was 12% mainly due to congestive heart failure and sepsis. Complete HR was achieved in 38 cases (49%) and OR was seen in 59%. Among the most common complications to ASCT, febrile neutropenia was reported in 67%, transient renal impairment in 10% and congestive heart failure in 3%. Median OS was significantly lower for patients with B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) >300 pg/ml (17.7 vs 64.46 months) (p0.0004), Troponin I >0.07 ng/ml (19.25 vs 97.4 months) (p0.00001) and those who achieved a complete HR (115 vs 88 months) (p0.0345). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that BNP>300 pg/ml and Troponin I >0.07 ng/ml (normal <0.07) were the most important factors to predict OS for patients with AL who underwent ASCT (p0.0002 and 0.04 respectively). Conclusions Based on this study of 77 patients, clinical selection is the most important factor to better improve outcomes for HDM in AL. Patients with BNP>300 pg/ml and/or abnormal levels of Troponin I (>0.07) should not be considered eligible for transplants due to a high degree of mortality. Our series showed a CR rate of 49% which is higher than 33% reported by Palladini et al with Mel/Dex. Stringent case selection may be the most important factor in decreasing mortality rate associated to ASCT leading to better outcomes. Table 1. Clinical Characteristics of patients with AL Amyloidosis undergoing ASCT (at initial diagnosis) Clinical Characteristics N Median Range % Age (years) 77 57 33–74 Hemoglobin (g/L) 77 138 104–182 Creatinine (μ mol/L) 77 129 37–700 **BNP (pg/ml) 44 180 10–1670 ***BMPC (%)– 77 7 1–30 24 Hr Proteinuria (g/d) 77 5.5 0–24.9 Intraventricular Septal Distance (mm) 77 13 9–23 Kappa/lambda ratio 53 4.4 0.001–71.2 Kidney Involvement 71 Heart Involvement 52 Liver involvement 23 GI involvement 10 3 or more organs involved by AL 16 ** B-Type Natriuretic Peptide *** BMPC: Bone marrow plasma cells Disclosures: Stewart: Millennium: Consultancy; Celgene: Honoraria. Reece: Celgene: Honoraria, Research Funding. Chen: Celgene Corporation: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding. Kukreti: Celgene: Honoraria.
Infectious Complications in Advanced Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma Patients Treated with Lenalidomide (Revlimid +/- Corticosteroids).
Kukreti, Vishal , Dean, Saima, Kumar, Deepali , Trudel, Suzanne , Reece, Donna , Chen, Christine , Masih‐Khan, Esther , Mıkhael, Joseph

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 114 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 2876-2876

10.1182/blood.v114.22.2876.2876 Get It

Abstract Abstract 2876 Poster Board II-852 Multiple myeloma (MM) patients (pts) are immunosuppressed given the underlying disease, previous treatments and myelosuppression seen on lenalidomide (Revlimid, Rev). We evaluated the infectious complications seen on Celgene's Expanded Access Rev program at Princess Margaret Hospital. We have treated 75 pts who had progressed after at least one prior therapy as part of a national study in Canada. At entry, pts were required to have a neutrophil count of ≥1.0 ×109/L. The median age was 61 yrs (range 35-79); 52% were males. Prior therapy included stem cell transplant in 65, thalidomide in 54 and bortezomib in 24. Number of lines of prior therapy were as follows: 24 (one), 29 (two), 16 (three), 8 (four) and one (five). Neupogen was used liberally (63%) after a patient had a dose delay on trial due to neutropenia. Patients were treated with full dose lenalidomide at entry onto clinical trial and were maintained on full dosing unless platelet counts were <30×109/L or ANC was <1.0×109/L. No other dose adjustments were made for renal dysfunction. Results: There were 32 pts (43%) who had a clinically evident infection; the majority (91%) was on prophylactic antibiotics (septra/ciprofloxacin) at the time. There were two deaths due to infection and 23 pts (72%) required hospitalization (range 2-27 days). The majority of infections occurred within the first 4 cycles of treatment (26 pts) and seemed to occur more in pts with several lines of prior therapy – 7/24 (29%) with 1 prior therapy, 14/29 (48%) with 2, 9/16 (56%) with 3 and 2/8 (25%) with 4 prior therapies. Sixteen were neutropenic of which 7 had febrile neutropenia (9%). The types of infections were: respiratory in 14 (1 with pneumocystis pneumonia), cellulitis in 4, herpes simplex and herpes zoster in 2 pts each. These included streptococcus pneumoniae (1), staphylococcus aureus (3), respiratory syncitial virus (1) and mycobacterium chelonae (1). Rev was held during the infection in 23 pts (72%). Conclusions: 1) Infections are frequent in this patient population (43%) and often lead to hospitalization (72%); respiratory infections accounted for a large majority (43%). 2) Early aggressive growth factor support and broader antibiotic prophylaxis may be of benefit especially in heavily pretreated patients. 3) Dose reduction of Rev in the context of serious infections should be further evaluated. Disclosures: Kukreti: Celgene: Honoraria. Trudel:Celgene: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Ortho Biotech: Honoraria. Chen:Celgene: Honoraria.
Second Autologous Stem Cell Transplant (ASCT) as Salvage Therapy in Patients with Relapsed Multiple Myeloma.
Zadeh, Sahar, Stewart, A. Keith, Chen, Christine , Trudel, Suzanne , Kukreti, Vishal , Franke, Norman, Reece, Donna , Mıkhael, Joseph , Stewart, A. Keith, Winter, Andrew

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 114 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 1217-1217

10.1182/blood.v114.22.1217.1217 Get It

Abstract Abstract 1217 Poster Board I-239 Background Single autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) is considered the standard of care after induction therapy for younger multiple myeloma (MM) patients (pts). However, it is not curative and virtually all patients will ultimately relapse. As more options are available to treat relapsed disease, the role of a second ASCT as salvage therapy is unclear. Method Retrospective review of all MM pts who received a 2nd ASCT as salvage therapy at Princess Margaret Hospital. Results Between February 1997 and July 2009, 79 MM pts received a second ASCT for relapsed MM at our institution. Median age was 60 yrs (range 39-72) at second transplant. 48 pts (61%) were male. Immunoglobulin subtype included IgG (42), IgA (21), light chain (11), nonsecretory (3), IgM(1) and IgD (1). Transplant conditioning regimen for first transplant was high dose melphalan (MEL) 140-200 mg/m2 in 67, busulphan and cyclophosphamide in 1, and combinations of MEL with etoposide (E) or TBI in the rest. 2nd ASCT conditioning consisted of MEL alone in 76, the remaining 3 had MEL with either TBI or E. The median time to relapse after the first transplant was 2.72 years (0.81-8.26), with a median interval between transplants of 3.61 years (1.63-9.59). Response to first transplant in 78 evaluable patients was 13 CR/nCR (17%), 56 PR/VGPR (72%), 9 MR/SD (12%). Nineteen pts received maintenance therapy between transplants. Two transplant-related deaths occurred following 2nd ASCT. In 73 evaluable patients, response to second transplant was 11 CR/nCR (15%), 57 PR (78%), 6 MR/SD (8%). After 2nd ASCT, with median follow up 5.92 years (71 months), median progression-free survival (PFS) was 18.5 months and median overall survival (OS) was 4.4 years. Long term progression-free status based on the progression-free interval after 1st ASCT is summarized Table 1. PFS based on progression free interval after 1st ASCT is outlined in Figure 1. Conclusions 2nd ASCT is a feasible and safe salvage therapy in relapsed MM patients. It is effective in providing a median progression free survival of 18.5 months and median overall survival of 4.4 years (52.8 months) after 2nd ASCT. This is comparable if not better than modern salvage chemotherapies. The longer the disease free interval after 1st ASCT the more effective 2nd ASCT is at extending both progression free survival and overall survival. It is reasonable, therefore, to consider a 2nd ASCT if the time to progression is greater than 2 years after first ASCT. Disclosures Chen: Celgene: Honoraria, Research Funding; Ortho Biotech: Honoraria. Trudel:Celgene: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Ortho Biotech: Honoraria. Kukreti:Celgene: Honoraria.
Preliminary Safety and Efficacy Results from an International Phase 3b Study for Expanded Access to Bortezomib in 624 Patients with Relapsed and/or Refractory Multiple Myeloma.
Belch, Andrew , Prince, Miles, Lucio, María Nambo, Corso, Alessandro, Mieczyslaw, Komarnicki, Stewart, A. Keith, Mıkhael, Joseph , Maiolino, Ângelo , Petrucci, Maria Teresa

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 108 | Issue: 11 | Pages: 3530-3530

10.1182/blood.v108.11.3530.3530 Get It

Abstract Background: Bortezomib (VELCADE®) is a first-in-class, reversible proteasome inhibitor with activity in multiple myeloma (MM) and other malignancies. Bortezomib showed significant activity in previous phase 2 and 3 studies in patients (pts) with previously treated MM. This international multicenter open-label phase 3b study allowed expanded access to bortezomib therapy in pts with relapsed/refractory MM treated with ≥ 2 previous lines of therapy. Methods: Pts with MM were eligible if they had received ≥ 2 prior lines of therapy and required treatment due to relapsed or progressive disease. Pts with grade ≥ 2 peripheral neuropathy (PN) were excluded. Pts received 1.3 mg/m2 IV bolus bortezomib on days 1, 4, 8, and 11 of each 3-week cycle for up to 8 cycles; dexamethasone (20 mg/d PO on the day of and day after bortezomib dose) could be added after cycle 2 for progressive disease or after cycle 4 for stable disease. Adverse events (AEs) were assessed beginning at the start of treatment and continuing until 30–42 days after treatment and were graded based on NCI-CTC version 2.0. Efficacy assessment was performed based on changes in disease burden as measured by monoclonal (M)-protein concentration in serum and urine every 2 cycles (6 weeks). Response was assessed using modified SWOG criteria: complete response (CR) was a 100% reduction in M-protein; very good partial response (VGPR), 75–99% reduction; partial response (PR), 50–74% reduction; minimal response (MR), 25–49% reduction; and stable disease, < 25% reduction. Increasing M-protein levels indicated progressive disease. Results: 624 pts in 93 centers from 21 countries received at least 1 dose of treatment and were evaluable for safety (55.3% male; median age 62.7 years). 68% of pts received 3–11 lines of previous therapy. Karnofsky performance status was ≤70 in 25.6% of pts; 141 pts (22.6%) were ≥ 70 years of age. Pts completed a median of 5 cycles of therapy (range 0–13); 39.3% of pts completed all 8 planned cycles. Grade 3/4 treatment-emergent (related and unrelated) AEs were reported in 430 pts (68.9%), with thrombocytopenia (29.2%), neutropenia (13.3%), and anemia (11.7%) the most common hematologic AEs. Grade 3/4 PN was reported in 8.2% of pts. Overall, 165 pts (26.4%) discontinued therapy due to treatment-related AEs. Best responses among evaluable pts (n = 593) included 12.0% CR, 23.1% VGPR, 19.1% PR, and 16.5% MR, for an overall response rate of 70.7%. Median time to first response was 42 days (range 7–125), and median time to best response was 63 days (range 7–235). Conclusions: Bortezomib 1.3 mg/m2 administered biweekly q3 weeks was well tolerated with manageable toxicities in pts with relapsed and/or refractory MM. Response rates with bortezomib were high, even in heavily pretreated pts, inducing > 25% CR/VGPR. This study confirms results from initial clinical trials in a broader population.
Treatment with Bortezomib (Bor) Based Therapy Followed By Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation (SCT) Improves Outcomes in Light Chain Amyloidosis (AL)
Jain, Tania , Kung, Shu Ting, Shah, Vishal , Reeder, Craig B. , Noël, Pierre, Adams, Roberta H. , Luft, Susan, Mayo, Angela, Stewart, A. Keith, Jain, Tania , Shah, Vishal , Dueck, Amylou C. , Kosiorek, Heidi , Mıkhael, Joseph , Bergsagel, P. Leif , Fonseca, Rafaël

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 128 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 4629-4629

10.1182/blood.v128.22.4629.4629 Get It

Abstract Introduction: Hematologic response (HR) particularly complete response (CR) is critical in patients (pts) with AL since it improves overall survival (OS) because of organ response (OrgR). Bor based therapies especially in combination with cyclophosphamide and dexamethasone (CyBorD) have shown to be an active regimen in AL. So far, there have been no comparative studies studying the effect of treatment with B-based regimens prior to SCT (Bor-SCT) versus SCT upfront or SCT preceded by non-Bor therapies (non-Bor-SCT). We present a retrospective analysis of data with an aim to compare the OS, OrgR and HR in the two cohorts. Methods: Charts were reviewed for the pts who underwent SCT for AL since 2004 until 2015 at Mayo Clinic in Arizona. HR and OrgR were determined using the consensus criteria from International Society of Amyloidosis.1 HR were noted at 3, 6 and 12 months from SCT. Results: Patients and disease characteristics: 63 pts were identified who underwent SCT for AL, of which 34 were in Bor-SCT and 29 were in the non-Bor-SCT cohort. Median age at diagnosis was 59.5 (range, 39 - 72) and 63 (range, 38 - 76) years and at SCT was 60 (range, 40 - 72) and 63 (range, 39 - 76) years for Bor-SCT and non-Bor-SCT, respectively. There were 13 (38%) females in Bor-SCT and 9 (31%) in non-Bor-SCT. Mean bone marrow involvement of plasma cells at diagnosis was 18% (SD±16.5) in Bor-SCT and 6.8% (SD±7.8) in non-Bor-SCT (p = 0.004). All pts had an ECOG performance score of better than 3 at the time of SCT. Fifteen (44%) pts had single organ involvement at diagnosis and 9 (26.5%) had 2-organ involvement in Bor-SCT. In non-Bor-SCT, 21 (72%) pts had single and 6 (21%) had 2-organ involvement (p = 0.04). More than 2 organs were involved in 10 (29%) pts in Bor-SCT and 2 (7%) in non-Bor-SCT. Heart was involved in 18 (53%) pts in Bor-SCT and 8 (28%) in non-Bor-SCT (p = 0.04) while kidney involvement was seen in 27 (79%) in Bor-SCT and 23 (79%) in non-Bor-SCT (p = 0.99). Median creatinine was not significantly different in the 2 groups at diagnosis or at the time of SCT. In Bor-SCT, no pts were on hemodialysis at the time of diagnosis or SCT. In non-Bor-SCT, 1 pt at diagnosis and 3 pts at SCT progressed to need hemodialysis. Lambda light chain was involved in 27 (82%) and 22 (76%) (p = 0.56) with a mean level of involved light chains being 59(SD±88.7) g/dL and 43.3 (SD±64.6) g/dL (p=0.4539) in Bor-SCT and non-Bor-SCT, respectively. Treatment: Thirty-one (91%) out of 34 pts in Bor-SCT group got treatment with CyBorD while 2 (6%) got Bor with dexamethasone and 1 (3%) got Bor with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin. In the non-Bor-SCT group, 20 (69%) out of 29 got no treatment, 4 (14%) got melphalan prednisone, 2 (7%) got dexamethasone alone, 1 (3%) got vincristine dexamethasone and 2 (7%) got lenalidomide dexamethasone prior to SCT. Transplant factors: Median time from diagnosis to SCT was 226.5 (range, 65 - 1108) days in Bor-SCT and 150.5 (48 - 1139) days in non-Bor-SCT (p=0.32). Full dose of melphalan (200 mg/m2) was used in 21 (62%) pts in Bor-SCT and 13 (34%) pts in non-Bor-SCT (p <0.001). Mean dose of cells used for SCT was 4.6 (SD±0.9) and 4.8 (SD±2.2) x 106/kg in Bor-SCT and non-Bor-SCT, respectively. Median time to neutrophil and platelet engraftment was 13 (range, 10 - 27) and 16 (range, 8 - 28) days in Bor-SCT while 11 (range, 7 - 16) and 13 (range, 10 - 25) days in non-Bor-SCT. Responses: HR at 3, 6 and 12 months from SCT and OrgR by the time of last follow up is described in table 1. Survival: Median OS was not reached in Bor-SCT as compared to 53.4 months in non-Bor-SCT (p =0.001), Figure 1. Conclusions: Our study suggests a benefit in HR, OrgR as well as OS by reduction of disease burden by Bor-based therapy prior to SCT. This benefit was observed despite a higher percentage of pts with cardiac involvement, more than 2 organ involvement and mean bone marrow plasma cells at diagnosis in Bor-SCT. Currently, it is not standard practice to use Bor-based therapy prior to SCT. A prospective study with larger number of pts would be required to confirm these findings. References: 1. Gertz MA et al. Definition of Organ Involvement and Treatment Response in Immunoglobulin Light Chain Amyloidosis (AL): A Consensus Opinion From the 10th International Symposium on Amyloid and Amyloidosis. Am J Hematol. 2005;79(4):319-328. Disclosures Dueck: Bayer: Honoraria. Mikhael:Abbvie, Celgene, Onyx, Sanofi: Research Funding. Bergsagel:Amgen, BMS, Novartis, Incyte: Consultancy; Novartis: Research Funding. Reeder:Novartis, Millennium, BMS and Celgene: Research Funding. Stewart:celgene: Consultancy. Fonseca:AMGEN: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy; Sanofi: Consultancy; Bayer: Consultancy; Millennium, a Takeda Company: Consultancy; Millennium, a Takeda Company: Consultancy; AMGEN: Consultancy; BMS: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy; Patent: Patents & Royalties: Prognostication of MM based on genetic categorization of FISH of the disease; Patent: Patents & Royalties: Prognostication of MM based on genetic categorization of FISH of the disease; Patent Pending: Patents & Royalties: The use of calcium isotopes as biomarkers for bone metabolisms; AMGEN: Consultancy; AMGEN: Consultancy; Patent: Patents & Royalties: Prognostication of MM based on genetic categorization of FISH of the disease; Patent Pending: Patents & Royalties: The use of calcium isotopes as biomarkers for bone metabolisms; Millennium, a Takeda Company: Consultancy; Sanofi: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Millennium, a Takeda Company: Consultancy; Patent: Patents & Royalties: Prognostication of MM based on genetic categorization of FISH of the disease; Patent Pending: Patents & Royalties: The use of calcium isotopes as biomarkers for bone metabolisms; Patent Pending: Patents & Royalties: The use of calcium isotopes as biomarkers for bone metabolisms; Celgene: Consultancy; BMS: Consultancy; Bayer: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy.
Understanding and Information in Cancer Patients: The Impact of a Cancer Symposia on Patient Knowledge
Padrnos, Leslie , Wu, Qing , Scherber, Robyn M. , Northfelt, Donald W. , Mıkhael, Joseph , Bennett, Robert M. , Dueck, Amylou C. , Mesa, Ruben A.

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 124 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 6011-6011

10.1182/blood.v124.21.6011.6011 Get It

Abstract Background: Patients diagnosed with cancer experience a significant influx of health care information while continuing to demonstrate understanding deficit regarding their disease and health. This knowledge deficit can negatively impact a patient’s acute and long term health care experience. By identifying patient information deficits and needs, health care providers may be better able to provide targeted education to patients and families. Aims: The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of a patient centered cancer symposium on knowledge level, reported symptom burden, and desired information from a broad population of cancer patients. Methods: Surveys were distributed to the attendees of the third annual Mayo Clinic “Living with Cancer” patient symposium in January 2014. While 700 individuals registered for the event, only individuals with a past or present cancer diagnosis were asked to participate. Surveys included demographic data in addition to a questionnaire evaluating disease comprehension, symptom burden, desired information and desired role in the health care decision making process. Results: 75 patients completed the pre-intervention and post-intervention survey. There were slightly more female participants (60.2%). Disease types included 40% hematologic malignancies, 27% breast cancer, 20% prostate cancer and 13% other. The majority of patients were greater than 3 years from cancer diagnosis (62%). Baseline Patient Understanding: Most respondents reported understanding their disease quite a bit (54%) or very much (30%). Respondents reported the majority of their knowledge regarding their disease came from their oncologist (56%), oncology nurse (24%), previous symposiums (22%), or the internet (15%). Most respondents reported “quite a bit” or greater comprehension of screening tests (75%), monitoring disease response to treatment (70%), monitoring disease recurrence (70%), treatment options (67%) and treatment side effects (73%). There was no consensus among participants regarding understanding or limiting risk factors, symptoms associated with disease relapse, fatigue and pain management, navigating the health care system, financial considerations, or confidence in their primary care physician’s involvement in their cancer or post-cancer care. A large proportion of attendees reported “quite a bit” or greater desire for increased information/understanding regarding their disease (83%), risk factors (83%), nutrition (80%), screening tests (69%), and management of fatigue (69%) and stress (68%). Knowledge Improvement Durable at 3 months: There was improvement in 18 of 20 areas of self-reported knowledge. This was noted in increased percentage of respondents reporting “quite a bit” or greater comprehension, especially in areas of disease risk factors(55%pre vs 63%post), disease side effects(55%pre vs 63%post), and health care navigation(53%pre vs 69%post). The reported desire for “quite a bit” or more increased understanding on various topics did decrease post symposium regarding their disease(87.9% pre vs 68.9%post), disease risk factors(86.3%pre vs 64.0%post), screening tests(74.7%pre vs 63.3%post), and nutrition(78.4%pre vs 64.9%post)(all p<0.05). There was no significant decrease in the desire for increased understanding managing stress and fatigue. Summary: Demonstrated in this study, individuals choosing to attend a patient-centered cancer symposium, seek to improve an already solid knowledge base. Study participants indicate a significant desire for increased information on all topics, even those with sufficient level of knowledge reported. This indicates that some cancer patients’ thirst for knowledge is difficult to quench, and may benefit from recurrent education opportunities. The improvement in almost all topics assessed indicates a patient centered symposium is an effective method to provide information to patients regarding the spectrum of cancer health management. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
A Phase I/II Study of the Tolerability of Lenalidomide and Low Dose Dexamethasone in Previously Treated Multiple Myeloma Patients with Impaired Renal Function: Pre1003, a Precog LLC Study
Manola, Judith , Hayman, Suzanne R. , Oettel, Kurt R., Cescon, Terrence P., Mıkhael, Joseph , Dueck, Amylou C. , Thompson, Michael A. , Kaufman, Jonathan L. , Rajkumar, S. Vincent

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 120 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 1856-1856

10.1182/blood.v120.21.1856.1856 Get It

Abstract Abstract 1856 Background: Lenalidomide has proven to be a highly effective treatment in relapsed multiple myeloma (MM), particularly when used in combination with dexamethasone. However, over 30% of patients with myeloma have renal insufficiency and as lenalidomide is renally excreted, little information is available about its use in myeloma patients with impaired kidney function. Defining a safe and effective dose of lenalidomide in this context is critical. Objective: We undertook this study to establish the maximum tolerated dose of lenalidomide in three cohorts of patients with different levels of impaired renal function: Group A - patients with creatinine clearance (CrCl) between 30 and 60 mL/min, Group B - patients with CrCl <30 mL/min not on dialysis, and Group C - patients with CrCl < 30mL/min who are on dialysis. Secondary endpoints included response rate, progression free survival and overall survival. Methods: Eligible patients had previously treated MM with renal impairment defined as creatinine clearance < 60 mL/min measured within 21 days prior to registration. Patients previously treated with lenalidomide were required to demonstrate clinical response (any duration) or stable disease with progression-free interval of > 6 months from start of that therapy. All patients received dexamethasone 40 mg orally on days 1, 8, 15 and 22 of a 28-day cycle. Prophylactic anticoagulation consisted of either 81 mg or 325 mg per day of aspirin. Patients also received lenalidomide orally every 1 or 2 days on days 1 through 21 of a 28-day cycle, as described below (Table 1). Starting doses were as in US Product Insert. Dose escalation follows a standard 3+3 design. Results: There have been 23 patients enrolled into groups and cohorts as shown in Table 1. Median age was 73 (range 49–89) and 13 (57%) were women. ISS stage was advanced in all patients, 0 in stage 1, 4 (18%) in stage 2 and 19 (82%) in stage 3. The regimen was well tolerated. Indeed, the MTD has not been reached in any of the groups, as no DLTs have occurred to date. The most commonly reported clinical adverse events (all grades, independent of attribution) across all patients included infections, hyperglycemia, constipation, dizziness, hyponatremia, hypocalcemia and tremor. Hematological toxicities (grade 3–4) occurred in 13 out of 21 pts (62%), mostly neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. Grade 3–4 events at least possibly related to the regimen occurred in 70% and included pneumonia (26%) and otitis media (9%). Response was seen in 14 patients, resulting in an overall response rate of 61%. CR was seen in 1 patient (4%), VGPR in 2 patients (9%), PR in 11 patients (43%), and SD for 9 patients. With median follow-up of 15.5 months, median progression-free survival is 9.8 months and median overall survival is 22 months. Conclusion: Lenalidomide and dexamethasone is a safe and effective regimen in patients with multiple myeloma and renal insufficiency. It is also very well tolerated, although cytopenias are common but manageable. MTD has yet to be reached in each group, allowing for higher doses to be given than previously thought, including 25mg daily (for 21/28 days) in patients with CrCl 30–60 mL/min, 25 mg every other day (for 21/28 days) in patients with CrCl < 30 mL/min not on dialysis, and 10mg daily (for 21/28 days) in patients with CrCl < 30 mL/min on dialysis. These results will provide needed, clinically relevant dosing for lenalidomide in MM patients with renal insufficiency. Disclosures: Kaufman: Millenium: Consultancy; Onyx: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy.