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Nikcevich, Daniel A.

Mayo Clinic

Essentia Health

Citations 38

Elevated Pre-Treatment Serum Immunoglobulin Free Light Chains (FLC) Are Associated with Poor Event-Free and Overall Survival in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL).
Micallef, Ivana N. , Katzmann, Jerry A., Nikcevich, Daniel A., Maurer, Matthew J. , Witzig, Thomas E.

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 114 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 136-136

10.1182/blood.v114.22.136.136 Get It

Abstract Abstract 136 Background: The serum free light chain (FLC) assay quantitates free kappa and free lambda immunoglobulin light chains. This assay has prognostic value in MGUS, multiple myeloma (MM), solitary plasmacytoma, and AL amyloidoisis, and has been incorporated in response criteria for both MM and AL amyloidosis. A percentage of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) patients also present with abnormal FLC concentrations and recent data suggest that AIDS patients with elevated serum FLC are at higher risk of developing NHL. Here we assess the impact of FLC in a cohort of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) enrolled on a cooperative group clinical trial. Methods: Newly diagnosed DLBCL patients were treated with epratuzumab + R-CHOP (ER-CHOP) on NCCTG clinical trial N0489. Serum FLC was quantitated prior to treatment and after cycles 2 and 6 using the Freelite FLC assay (The Binding Site, Ltd., Birmingham, UK). Patients were followed per clinical trial protocol for event-free (progression, retreatment, or death due to any cause) and overall survival (EFS and OS, respectively). Results: 107 patients were enrolled on the trial. 80 patients had a pre-treatment serum draw and a central pathology confirmed diagnosis of DLBCL, of which 47 had a post-cycle 2 sample (C2) and a 54 had a post-cycle 6 sample (C6). At a medium follow-up of 25 months (range 7-39), 22 patients (28%) had an event and 17 patients died (21%). Prior to treatment 23 patients (29%) had abnormal kappa concentrations (all elevated), 16 (20%) had abnormal lambda concentrations (11 elevated, 5 decreased), and 9 (11%) had an abnormal kappa/lambda ratio. FLC concentrations were significantly reduced in patients during treatment, with a median reduction in kappa (C2: 46%, C6: 64%) and lambda (C2: 44%, C6: 49%), all p<0.0001. Elevated FLC prior to treatment was highly associated with both OS (logrank p=0.009) and EFS (logrank p=0.006); these associations remained significant after adjusting for IPI (both p = 0.01). Conclusions: A significant percentage of DLBCL patients present with abnormal FLC concentrations. Kappa and lambda are significantly reduced for most patients during treatment. Elevated pre-treatment FLC concentrations are associated with inferior EFS and OS in DLBCL and this association is independent of the IPI. A follow-up study of FLC and prognosis is currently underway in a cohort of 1500 NHL patients from the Mayo Clinic and University of Iowa SPORE. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Vitamin D Deficiency Is Associated with Inferior Event-Free and Overall Survival in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma.
Micallef, Ivana N. , Kelly, Jennifer L., Macon, William R. , Nikcevich, Daniel A., Allmer, Cristine, Drake, Matthew T. , Maurer, Matthew J. , Link, Brian K. , Habermann, Thomas M. , Colgan, Joseph P. , Slager, Susan L. , Weiner, George J. , Witzig, Thomas E. , Cerhan, James R.

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 114 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 1952-1952

10.1182/blood.v114.22.1952.1952 Get It

Abstract Abstract 1952 Poster Board I-975 Background: Vitamin D is a naturally occurring steroid hormone. In addition to its well-established role in maintaining serum calcium homeostasis, vitamin D has effects on cellular differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis. Vitamin D3 is naturally produced in skin in response ultraviolet-B (UVB) radiation from the sun. Several recent studies, however, have shown that a high proportion of community-dwelling subjects in both tropical and temperate climates are deficient in vitamin D, and that subjects in northern latitudes often require dietary supplementation to maintain vitamin D sufficiency. Further, several reports now suggest that vitamin D sufficiency is protective against the development of several cancers, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). However, it is not known whether vitamin D impacts prognosis in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), the most common NHL subtype. Methods: We evaluated serum vitamin D concentrations in two cohorts of DLBCL patients. The first cohort consisted of 374 patients newly diagnosed from September 2002-February 2008 who were prospectively enrolled in the University of Iowa/Mayo Clinic Lymphoma SPORE Molecular Epidemiology Resource, an observational study in which neither therapeutic nor diagnostic management is prescribed. All serum was obtained within 120 days of diagnosis, and was prior to treatment in 221 (59%). In the second study, 62 patients newly diagnosed from February 2006-August 2007 were enrolled on NCCTG clinical trial N0489, and all serum was obtained before the first course of therapy. Central pathology review was performed on all patients to confirm the diagnosis of DLBCL. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin (25-OH-VitD) levels were measured by the gold standard method for vitamin D determination: liquid chromatography tandem mass spectroscopy (LC-MS/MS). Vitamin D deficiency was defined as total serum 25-OH-VitD < 25 ng/mL (62.5 nmol/L). SPORE patients were followed per a standard protocol for event-free (progression, retreatment, or death due to any cause) and overall survival (EFS and OS, respectively); N0489 patients were followed in a similar way per the clinical trial protocol. We used Cox regression to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: SPORE patients were primarily treated with immunochemotherapy (83%); all N0489 patients were treated with epratuzumab + R-CHOP21. The median age at diagnosis was 62 years (range, 19-93) for SPORE patients and 61 years (range, 21-82) for N0489 patients. Median follow-up for SPORE patients was 36 months (range, 1-77) with 95 deaths and 131 events; median follow-up for N0489 patients was 24 months (range, 7-39) with 13 deaths and 18 events. Vitamin D deficiency was identified in 188 SPORE patients (50%) and 15 N0489 patients (24%). There were no differences in the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency by age, IPI, or whether serum was obtained prior to starting treatment (all p > 0.28). Vitamin D deficiency was associated with inferior overall (HR=2.33, 95% CI 1.53-3.57, logrank p = 0.0001) and event-free survival (HR=1.71, 95% CI 1.20-2.44, logrank p = 0.003) in the SPORE cohort. These associations remained significant after adjusting for IPI and treatment: OS HR=1.97, 95% CI 1.27-3.07; EFS HR=1.47, 95% CI 1.02-2.21. These results were similar for the subset of SPORE patients who were treated with R-CHOP. The HRs for vitamin D deficiency and event-free survival were consistent in the N0489 patients (HR=1.63, 95% CI 0.61-4.35, IPI adjusted HR=1.43, 95% CI 0.53-3.85), although these results lacked precision due to a smaller sample size. We were unable to evaluate OS in N0489 due to the small number of deaths. Conclusions: Approximately 50% of all DLBCL patients in this northern US latitude population are vitamin D deficient at the time of diagnosis and treatment. Vitamin D deficient patients have an inferior event-free and overall survival compared to patients with vitamin D levels within the normal range. Vitamin D supplementation during treatment of DLBCL patients with vitamin D deficiency should be evaluated in a clinical trial setting. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
PET Scan Results of NCCTG N0489: Epratuzumab and Rituximab in Combination with Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Vincristine and Prednisone Chemotherapy (ER-CHOP) in Patients with Previously Untreated Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma.
Micallef, Ivana N. , Nikcevich, Daniel A., Kurtin, Paul J. , Cannon, Michael W., Flynn, Patrick J. , Soori, Gamini S. , Lowe, Val J. , Wiseman, Gregory A., Maurer, Matthew J. , Witzig, Thomas E.

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 114 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 137-137

10.1182/blood.v114.22.137.137 Get It

Abstract Abstract 137 Background: FDG-PET/CT after 2–4 cycles of chemotherapy has been shown to be predictive of outcome in patients with aggressive lymphoma. This multicenter NCCTG phase II study was carried out to assess efficacy of ER-CHOP in newly diagnosed DLBCL; functional response as measured by FDG-PET/CT was done after 2 cycles and after 6 cycles of therapy. Methods: Patients received immunochemotherapy on the following schedule: epratuzumab 360 mg/m2, rituximab 375 mg/m2, and standard dose CHOP every 3 weeks for 6 cycles. FDG-PET/CT was done after 2 cycles and again after 6 cycles of therapy. All PET scans were centrally reviewed by an expert in nuclear medicine who was blinded to the outcome of the patients. Results: 107 patients were accrued from Feb 2006 to Aug 2007. 27 patients were ineligible resulting in 80 eligible patients. Baseline patient characteristics for the eligible patients included median age 60 (range 21–82); 56% were male. 80% had advanced stage; 73% had an elevated LDH. Performance score was 0–1 in 71 pts and 2–3 in 9 pts. IPI was 0–1 in 18 pts (23%), 2 in 22 pts (28%), 3 in 29 pts (36%) and 4–5 in 11 pts (14%). PET scans were available on 76 patients (95%); 3 patients completed treatment but scans were unavailable and 1 died prior to cycle 2 PET. The PET CR rate after 2 cycles was 79%. The PET CR rate after 6 cycles was 90%. Using an intent to treat (ITT) analysis, 67 patients (87%) achieved PET CR of which 61 (79%) also completed all 6 cycles of treatment. Based on interim PET after 2 cycles, the EFS at 24 months (EFS24) was 73% for the PET negative patients vs 60% for the PET positive patients (p=0.25); OS at 24 months (OS24) was 83% vs 73% for the PET negative and positive pts, respectively (p=0.17). In comparison, EFS24 for patients with a negative PET after 6 cycles was 80% vs 57% for those with a positive PET (p=0.11); OS24 was 92% vs 57%, respectively (p=0.01). In intent to treat (ITT) analysis, patients that achieved a functional CR had improved overall survival (OS24 = 84%) and event free survival (EFS24 = 74%) compared to patients that failed to achieve a functional CR (OS24 = 50%, EFS24 = 40%, p=0.01 and p=0.006 respectively). Conclusions: ER-CHOP every 21 days × 6 cycles results in a functional CR rate of 87%. Early PET scan during therapy does not significantly predict outcome. Achievement of PET negativity by completion of therapy is associated with a good outcome Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Phase II Clinical Trial of Denileukin Diftitox In Combination with Rituximab In Previously Untreated Follicular B-Cell Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Ansell, Stephen M. , Nowakowski, Grzegorz S. , Nikcevich, Daniel A., Nelson, Garth D. , Erlichman, Charles , Group, North Central Cancer Treatment, Tang, Hui Jun , Witzig, Thomas E. , Group, North Central Cancer Treatment

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 116 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 2862-2862

10.1182/blood.v116.21.2862.2862 Get It

Abstract Abstract 2862 Follicular lymphoma (FL) is a B-cell malignancy that exhibits significant intratumoral infiltration by non-malignant T lymphocytes. The pathophysiological significance of infiltrating T cells is poorly understood but recent studies have suggested that CD4+CD25+ regulatory T (Treg) cells are highly represented in lymph nodes involved by FL. These Treg cells display the ability to suppress the proliferation and cytokine production of other tumor-infiltrating T cells and migrate to areas of B-cell lymphoma in response to chemotactic signals provided by the malignant B-cells. Denileukin diftitox, a chimeric immunotoxin composed of the modified cytotoxic domain of diphtheria toxin and human interleukin-2 (IL-2) protein, targets cells expressing CD25 and has proven efficacy in patients with relapsed B-cell lymphoma. In this study, we combined denileukin diftitox with rituximab in a cohort of previously untreated, advanced-stage follicular lymphoma patients. Our hypothesis was that denileukin diftitox would deplete the Treg cells, thereby removing the inhibition of the immune response, and rituximab would deplete the B-cells thereby preventing further recruitment of Treg cells to the areas of lymphoma. Between August 2008 and March 2010, twenty-four patients with stage III and IV follicular grade 1 or 2 non-Hodgkin lymphoma were accrued to the study. One patient died before treatment was given and is not included in the analysis. The median age was 60 years (range: 27 – 79), 12 (52%) of the patients were male, 19 (83%) had a PS of 0 and 4 (17%) had a PS of 1. Based on the Follicular Lymphoma International Prognostic Index (FLIPI), 3 (13%) were low risk, 14 (61%) were intermediate risk and 6 (26%) were high risk. Patients received rituximab 375 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, 15 and 22 and denileukin diftitox 18 mcg/kg/day on days 1–5 every 3 weeks for 4 cycles. A median of 4 cycles of therapy was given (range: 1 – 4). Thirteen patients completed treatment per protocol (57%), however 5 patients discontinued treatment due to adverse events (22%), 2 refused further treatment (9%) and 1 discontinued due to disease progression (4%). Nine of the 23 patients (39%; 95% CI: 21–61%) responded to treatment, 3 (13%) had a complete response and 6 (26%) had a partial response. Twenty-one patients (91%) are alive with a median follow-up of 8.7 months (range: 3.4–19.5). Seven (30%) patients have progressed and two (8.7%) has died. The median time to progression is 13.4 months (95% CI: 10.4 – NA). The combination, however, was associated with significant toxicity. Thirteen patients (57%) experienced grade 3 or greater adverse events. Six patients (26%) had symptoms of capillary leak syndrome, 1 of whom died. In correlative studies performed on the peripheral blood, the number of CD25+ T-cells decreased after treatment when compared to pretreatment numbers (median 24%; range: 8–44%). We conclude that while the addition of denileukin diftitox to rituximab decreased the numbers of CD25+ T-cells, denileukin diftitox contributed significantly to the toxicity of the combination. Furthermore, the overall response rate and time to progression in this study were no better than what would be expected in follicular lymphoma patients treated with rituximab alone. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
A Randomized Comparison of Standard Weekly Epoetin Alfa to Every-3-Week Epoetin Alfa and Every-3-Week Darbepoetin Alfa: A Study of the Mayo Clinic Cancer Research Consortium (MCCRC).
Dakhil, Shaker R. , Novotny, Paul J. , Sloan, Jeff A. , Johnson, David B., Anderson, Daniel M. , Mattar, Bassam, Moore, Dennis F., Nikcevich, Daniel A., Loprinzi, Charles L. , Steensma, David P.

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 114 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 3008-3008

10.1182/blood.v114.22.3008.3008 Get It

Abstract Abstract 3008 Poster Board II-984 Introduction: The erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) epoetin alfa (EA) and darbepoetin alfa (DA) increase hemoglobin (Hb) levels and reduce red blood cell (RBC) transfusion requirements in patients (pts) with cancer chemotherapy-associated anemia (CAA). Extended-interval ESA dosing (i.e., administration less than once weekly) is a common practice with DA, which is FDA approved for dosing once every 3 weeks (q3wks); a previous study of the North Central Cancer Treatment Group suggested that EA can also be given less often than the FDA-approved once weekly schedule (Steensma DP et al, J Clin Onc 2006; 24:1079). The present study compared 2 different q3wks extended-interval EA regimens with weekly fixed-dose EA and with q3wks DA in pts with CAA. Patients and Methods: Eligible pts were receiving chemotherapy for a non-myeloid malignancy and had Hb <10.5 g/dL, ferritin >20 ng/mL, weight >40 kg and <150 kg, and ECOG performance score £2. Pts were randomized 1:1:1:1 to receive EA 40,000 Units subcutaneously (SC) once weekly (40K arm), EA 80,000 Units SC q3wks (80K arm), EA 120,000 Units SC q3wks (120K arm), or DA 500 mcg SC q3wks (DA arm), for 15 weeks. EA and DA were held for Hb >12 g/dL and restarted at a lower dose when Hb fell to '11.5 g/dL. All pts received ferrous sulfate 325 mg orally once daily, if tolerated. Quality of life (QOL) was measured using the Symptom Distress Scale (SDS), Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI), FACT-An, and Linear Analogue Self Assessment (LASA) tools. The primary endpoint was the proportion of pts achieving Hb≥11.5 g/dL or increment of Hb>2.0 g/dL from baseline. Secondary endpoints included RBC transfusion requirements, adverse events (AEs), and QOL. Results: 239 pts (236 evaluable) enrolled at 10 MCCRC sites between Feb. 2007 and Dec. 2008; 62% of pts completed all study interventions. The median age of enrolled pts was 66 years; 42.4% were men, 91.5% had solid tumors, 26.7% had severe anemia (Hb <9.5 g/dL), and 44.9% were receiving platinum-containing regimens. Baseline characteristics were balanced between study arms, with the exception of gender (39% female for 40K, 60% for 80K, 43% for 120K, 26% for DA). There were no significant differences between treatment arms in the proportion of pts achieving a Hb response (68.9% for 40K, 61.7% for 80K, 65.5% for 120K, and 66.7% for DA; p>0.41 for all comparisons), but the median Hb increment from baseline was higher in the 40K and DA arms compared to the 2 extended dosing EA arms (40K-2.8 g/dL, 80K-2.0 g/dL, 120K-2.1 g/dL, DA-2.6 g/dL; p=0.005 for 40K vs 80K). Hb response was achieved more quickly in the weekly EA arm, but the difference was not significant (40K-32 days, 80K-50 days, 120K-49 days, DA-49 days; p>0.13). The proportion of patients transfused was similar between arms (40K-27.9%, 80K-33.3%, 120K-22.4%, DA-29.8%; p>0.49). There were no significant differences in QOL changes. Deaths were also similar between arms (40K-5 pts, 80K-7 pts, 120K-7 pts, DA-1 pt, p>0.10) and were primarily due to disease progression. AEs and serious AEs were comparable between study groups; grade 3/4 AEs were observed in 22% of pts in the 40K arm, 22% on 80K, 17% on 120K, and 13% on DA; p>0.56. The median total dose of EA used was highest in the 120K arm (40K-265,000 U; 80K-240,000 U; 120K-360,000 U; p=0.0009 for 40K vs 120K), while pts on the 40K arm were more likely to omit a dose due to a high Hb (40K-63.9% of pts omitted at least one dose; 80K-30.0%; 120K-34.5%; DA-43.6%, p<0.0001 for 40K vs 80K). Conclusion: Although there was no significant difference in the proportion of responding pts (the primary endpoint), Hb increments from baseline were moderately higher with the 2 FDA-approved regimens – weekly EA 40,000 Units, and q3wk DA 500 mcg – than with the extended dosing regimens. This study was supported by a grant from Centocor Ortho Biotech, Inc. to the MCCRC. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Phase II Study of Rituximab and Cladribine (2-CDA) in Newly Diagnosed Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL) (N0189).
Inwards, David J. , Fishkin, Paul A. S., White, William L. , Morton, Roscoe F., Dakhil, Shaker R. , Nikcevich, Daniel A., Wender, Donald B., Fitch, Tom R., Kurtin, Paul J. , Hillman, David W.

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 108 | Issue: 11 | Pages: 2746-2746

10.1182/blood.v108.11.2746.2746 Get It

Abstract Background: A previous trial of 2-CDA as a single agent for therapy of mantle cell lymphoma demonstrated this agent to be efficacious with an overall response rate of 81% (31% complete responses) (Blood 1999 Nov 15; 94:660a). A phase II study of the addition of rituximab to 2-CDA was conducted by the North Central Cancer Treatment Group based on improved outcomes achieved by the addition of rituximab to other regimens active in MCL. Methods: This one-stage phase II study was designed to determine the complete response (CR) or complete response/unconfirmed (CRu) rate. Central pathology confirmation of cyclin D1 positive mantle cell lymphoma was required. No previous therapy for lymphoma was allowed, with the exception of splenectomy. The schedule was rituximab 375 mg/m2 IV day 1; 2-CDA 5 mg/m2/d IV days 1–5 of a 4-week cycle. After 2 of the first 6 patients developed grade 4 neutropenia, subsequent patients received either pegfilgrastim or filgrastim support. Patients received 2–6 cycles of therapy, depending on response. Patients were required to achieve at least a PR after 2 cycles of therapy to continue on protocol therapy. Results: Patient characteristics of all 29 eligible pts: median age: 70 (range: 41–86); 21 male, 8 female; PS 0 (55.2%), PS 1 (41.4%), PS 2 (3.5%); stage II (6.9%), stage III (3.5%), stage IV (89.7%); prior splenectomy (20.7%). The only grade 4 adverse events occurring more than once were neutropenia (24.1%) and leucopenia (6.9%). One patient died of cerebral ischemia in the setting of pneumonia without neutropenia. Fifteen (51.7%; 95% CI: 32.5–70.6%) pts achieved a CR; only one has relapsed to date (665 days after starting therapy). Four additional pts achieved a PR. Ten pts have progressed with 4 pts progressing early at 17, 45, 46, and 71 days (two of whom have died). Ten pts (34.0%) went on to receive further therapy off study, 5 in less than a PR after 2 cycles, 2 in PR after study therapy, and 1 who went off study for a rash. Fourteen pts (48.3%) have progressed or gone on to receive additional therapy off study. At last contact, 26 (89.7%) were alive (median follow-up 14.3 months; range: 6–34). One year survival rate is 89.3% (95% CI: 78.5–100). Conclusions: Rituximab and cladribine were well tolerated for the treatment of MCL in a group of elderly patients. The response rate may have been underestimated due to the study design, which required at least a PR after 2 cycles to continue therapy. Despite this, 52% achieved a complete remission. Complete remissions attained with this regimen appear to be durable, with a single relapse to date among 15 patients achieving CR.
Randomized Phase II Trial of Pentostatin, Cyclophosphamide, and Rituximab with or without Concurrent Avastin for Previously Untreated B-Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
LaPlant, Betsy, Call, Timothy G. , Nikcevich, Daniel A., Leis, José F., Pettinger, Adam, Dyke, Daniel L. Van , Jelinek, Diane F., Hanson, Curtis A. , Shanafelt, Tait D. , Ding, Wei , Kay, Neil E.

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 124 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 4673-4673

10.1182/blood.v124.21.4673.4673 Get It

Abstract BACKGROUND: Although chemoimmunotherapy (CIT) has improved response rates, treatment free survival, and overall survival in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), only 40-50% of patients achieve a complete remission and the majority have residual disease when evaluated using sensitive assays. Interactions with nurturing environments can enhance CLL B-cell resistance to apoptosis. These interactions include cytokine mediated prosurvival signals by angiogenic molecules, such as VEGF and bFGF that nurture CLL B-cells in an autocrine fashion and promote CLL cell survival partly through up regulation of anti-apoptotic proteins. These findings provide a strong rationale for testing anti-VEGF therapy in combination with a purine nucleoside analogue CIT regimen for upfront treatment. We conducted a randomized phase 2 CIT trial using pentostatin, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab with (PCR-B) or without (PCR) bevacizumab (B), an anti-VEGF monoclonal anti-body. METHODS: Eligible patients were previously untreated and had CLL in need of treatment by NCI-WG criteria (Blood 111:5446). Patients were randomized using a dynamic allocation procedure stratifying for stage (0-II vs. III-IV) and FISH (17p or 11q deletion vs. other) to receive either 6 cycles of rituximab (100 mg on day 1 of cycle 1; 375 mg/m2on day 2 of cycle 1 and day 1 of cycles 2-6) followed by pentostatin (2 mg/m2) and cyclophosphamide (600 mg/m2) (PCR) administered every 21 days. Patients in the PCR-B cohort also received bevacizumab 15mg/kg on day 1 of cycles 1-5 and days 1, 22, & 43 of cycle 6. All patients underwent complete response evaluation 3 months after day 1 of cycle 6 (or last cycle of treatment for those completing < 6 cycles). MRD was assessed using 6-color flow cytometry (Leukemia 21:956) at the completion of treatment. RESULTS: 68 patients were enrolled through the Mayo Clinic Cancer Research Consortium between 1/2009 and 1/2013. Three patients were excluded from analysis: 1 patient canceled prior to treatment, 1 was dosed incorrectly, and 1 was ineligible due to immunophenotyping inconsistent with CLL. Median age of eligible patients was 63 years (range 43-81) and 43 (66%) were men. With respect to disease stage, 3 (5%), 38 (58%), and 24 (37%) had low, intermediate and high Rai stage disease. Eleven (17%) patients had deletion 17p or 11q & 29 (45%) had unmutated IGHV. No statistically significant differences were observed in these variables by treatment arm. All 65 evaluable patients have completed active treatment, with 54 (83.1%) completing the intended 6 cycles (PCR group 27/32 [84.4%] and PCR-B 27/33 [81.8%]). Hematologic grade 3+ adverse events deemed at least possibly related to treatment were observed in 10 (31.3%) patients on PCR and 12 (36.4%) on PCR-B (p=0.79). Non-hematologic grade 3+ adverse events deemed at least possibly related to treatment were observed in 9 (28.1%) patients on PCR and 18 (54.4%) on PCR-B (p=0.04). The most common such events were hypertension (PCR: 3.1% vs. PCR-B: 21.2%), proteinuria (0% vs. 6.1%) and creatinine increase (3.1% vs. 6.1%). Across both arms, 64/65 (98.5%) patients achieved a response including 31/32 (96.9%) treated with PCR and 33/33 (100%) treated with PCR-B (p=0.49). CR/CRi was achieved in 10/32 (31.3%) patients treated with PCR & 18/33 (54.5%) treated with PCR-B (p=0.08). Of the 28 who achieved a CR/CRi, MRD analysis was completed on 26, of whom 12 (46%) were MRD negative. With respect to treatment arm, 5/32 (16%) patients on PCR and 7/33 (21%) on PCR-B achieved an MRD negative CR. Median time to retreatment for all 65 patients was 44.8 (95% CI: 34.6 – NA) months. Median overall survival has not yet been reached. With current follow-up no differences between treatment-free survival (p=0.38), progression-free survival (p=0.23), or overall survival (p=0.45) are observed by treatment arm. Plasma levels of angiogenic cytokines VEGF, bFGF, thrombospondin (TSP) and the chemokines CCL3 and CCL4 were measured prior to treatment and at the time of the post treatment response evaluation. Correlations of these cytokines with clinical outcome will be presented. CONCLUSION: The addition of bevacizumab to purine analogue-based CIT was generally well-tolerated and may increase complete remission rates in patients with CLL. No clear improvement in treatment free survival has been observed to date. Disclosures Shanafelt: Hospiria: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics/Jannsen: Research Funding; Cephalon: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; glaxoSmithKline: Research Funding; Genetech: Research Funding; Polyphenon E Int'l: Research Funding. Off Label Use: Off label use of pentostatin for treatment of CLL. Off label use of bevacizumab for treatment of CLL. . Kay:Genetech: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics: Research Funding; Hospira: Research Funding; Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Gilead: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees.
Phase I Trial of Rituximab, Cladribine and Temsirolimus (RCT) for Initial Therapy of Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Inwards, David J. , Fishkin, Paul A. S., LaPlant, Betsy, Kurtin, Paul J. , Nikcevich, Daniel A., Wender, Donald B., Lair, Bradley S., Drake, Matthew T. , Witzig, Thomas E.

Blood | October 9, 2019 | Volume: 120 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 3661-3661

10.1182/blood.v120.21.3661.3661 Get It

Abstract Abstract 3661 Objective: We conducted this trial to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and schedule of temsirolimus added to an established regimen comprised of rituximab and cladribine for the initial treatment of mantle cell lymphoma and to generate preliminary information on the toxicity and efficacy of this combination. Methods: A standard phase I cohort of 3 study design was utilized. MTD was defined as the dose level below the lowest dose that induces dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) in at least one-third of patients (at least 2 of a maximum of 6 new patients). DLT was defined as grade 4 ANC (<500) for ≥5 days, grade 4 ANC (<500) associated with fever (>100.5 F) and/or active infection, PLT <25,000, grade 4 infection, or ≥grade 3 non-hematologic toxicity during the first cycle of therapy as per NCI Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v3.0. The fixed doses of rituximab and cladribine were 375 mg/m2 IV day 1 and 5 mg/m2/d IV days 1–5 of a 28 day cycle, respectively, as previously published. There were 5 planned temsirolimus IV dose levels: 15 mg day 1; 25 mg day 1; 25 mg days 1 and 15; 25 mg days 1,8 and 15; and 25 mg days 1,8,15, and 22. The fifth dose level is as previously published in combination with rituximab. Results: A total of 17 patients were treated: 3 each at dose levels 1–4 and 5 at dose level 5 (25 mg temsirolimus days 1,8,15, and 22). The median age was 75 years (52–86). There were 11 males and 6 females. At presentation 88% had stage IV disease, and 94% had extranodal disease. MIPI scores were low in 6% (1 patient), intermediate in 59% (10 patients), and high in 35% (6 patients). There was a single DLT recorded at dose level 3 based on the initial DLT criteria, though this cytokine release syndrome was clearly rituximab related, and occurred prior to the first dose of temsirolimus. Five patients were treated at the highest planned temsirolimus dose level (25 mg days 1,8,15, and 22) with no DLT observed. No further dose escalation was planned, and this level was determined to be tolerated, though higher levels may be tolerable. All patients were evaluable for adverse events. Hematologic toxicity was frequent, with grade 3 anemia in 12% of patients, grade 3 thrombocytopenia in 35%, grade 4 thrombocytopenia in 30%, grade 4 lymphopenia in 47%, grade 3 neutropenia in 24%, and grade 4 neutropenia in 18% of patients. There were 3 thrombotic episodes, 2 of which were attributed to therapy, and 3 episodes of pneumonitis. The overall response rate was 94% with 53% CR and 41% PR. The median progression free survival was 18.7 months. Conclusions: Temsirolimus 25 mg IV weekly may be safely added to rituximab and cladribine at 375 mg/m2 IV day 1 and 5 mg/m2/d IV days 1–5 of a 28 day cycle, respectively. This regimen had promising preliminary activity in an elderly cohort of patients with mantle cell lymphoma. Disclosures: Off Label Use: Temsirolimus for mantle cell lymphoma.
Long‐term follow‐up of chemoimmunotherapy with rituximab, oxaliplatin, cytosine arabinoside, dexamethasone (ROAD) in patients with relapsed CD20+ B–cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma: Results of a study of the Mayo Clinic Cancer Center Research Consortium (MCCRC) M
Witzig, Thomas E. , Johnston, Patrick B. , LaPlant, Betsy, Kurtin, Paul J. , Pederson, Levi , Moore, Dennis F., Nabbout, Nassim H., Nikcevich, Daniel A., Rowland, Kendrith M. , LaPlant, Betsy R, Pederson, Levi D , Witzig, T.E. , Grothey, Axel

American Journal of Hematology | June 14, 2017 | Volume: 92 | Issue: 10 | Pages: 1004-1010

10.1002/ajh.24824 Get It

AbstractPatients with relapsed aggressive non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) are often treated with platinum‐based chemoimmunotherapy regimens in preparation for autologous stem cell transplant. We sought to reduce toxicity and maintain efficacy by using oxaliplatin with rituximab, cytarabine and dexamethasone (ROAD) in a phase II clinical trial in patients who had relapsed after one prior regimen. ROAD was delivered q21 days and consisted of rituximab 375 mg/m2 IV weekly x 4 doses (cycle 1 only); dexamethasone 40 mg PO/IV d2 – 5; oxaliplatin 130 mg/m2 IV day 2; cytarabine 2000 mg/m2 IV × two doses on days 2 to 3; and pegfilgrastim 6 mg SC on day 4. Forty‐five eligible patients were accrued between 2006 and 2008. Patient characteristics were a median age of 69 years; 96% had received prior rituximab; 53% were within one year of diagnosis. The median number of cycles received was 2 (range, 1‐6). Forty‐four % received ROAD as an outpatient. The overall response rate was 71% with 27% (12/45) CR and 44% (20/45) PR. Forty‐four % (20/45) of all patients and 69% (18/26) of patients whom responded after 2 cycles proceeded to transplant. Median overall survival was 26 mos (95% CI: 7.3 mos—not reached) and median progression‐free survival was 11 mos (95% CI: 6—104 mos). There was no grade 3/4 nephrotoxicity; the rate of grade 3/4 neuropathy was 4%. Forty‐two percent of all patients and 69% of patients transplanted remain alive at 5 years. ROAD represents an acceptable salvage therapeutic option for patients with relapsed aggressive NHL.
Akt inhibitor MK‐2206 in combination with bendamustine and rituximab in relapsed or refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia: Results from the N1087 alliance study
Larsen, Jeremy T. , Leis, José F., LaPlant, Betsy, Call, Tim G., Pettinger, Adam, Hanson, Curtis A. , Erlichman, Charles , Reeder, Craig B. , Nikcevich, Daniel A., Bowen, Deborah A., Conte, Michael, Boysen, Justin C. , Secreto, Charla, Lesnick, Connie , Tschumper, Renee C. , Jelinek, Diane F., Call, Tim, Hanson, Curtis, Habermann, Thomas Matthew, Reeder, Craig, Bowen, Deborah, Boysen, Justin, Tschumper, Renee, Jelinek, Diane, Ding, Wei , Shanafelt, Tait D. , Call, Timothy G., Habermann, Thomas M. , Kay, Neil E. , Ding, Wei

American Journal of Hematology | April 12, 2017 | Volume: 92 | Issue: 8 | Pages: 759-763

10.1002/ajh.24762 Get It

Akt is a downstream target of B cell receptor signaling and is a central regulator of CLL cell survival. We aim to investigate the safety and efficacy of the Akt inhibitor MK‐2206 in combination with bendamustine and rituximab (BR) in relapsed and/or refractory CLL in a phase I/II study. A standard phase I design was used with cohorts of three plus three patients to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of MK‐2206 in combination with BR in relapsed CLL. Single‐agent MK‐2206 (weekly dosed) was administered one‐week in advance before BR on cycle 1 and subsequently was given with BR at the same time for cycle 2‐6. Phase II employed the MTD of MK‐2206 with BR to evaluate safety and efficacy of this study combination. Thirteen relapsed/refractory CLL were treated for maximal 6‐cycle of therapy. The maximum tolerated dose of MK‐2206 was 90 mg by mouth once weekly. The most common grade 3/4 adverse events were neutropenia (46%), febrile neutropenia (23%), rash (15%), diarrhea (15%), and thrombocytopenia (15%). Overall response rate was 92% with a median progression free survival and treatment free survival of 16 and 24 months, respectively. Five patients (38%) achieved complete remission or complete remission with incomplete count recovery, two of whom were MRD negative. The efficacy and tolerability of this combination indicates that Akt inhibition combined with chemoimmunotherapy is a promising novel treatment combination in CLL and deserves further prospective clinical trial.