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Litzow, Mark R.

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9816-6302

Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic

Citations 731

Very Poor Long-Term Survival, Also in Contemporary Studies, of Patients with AML Who Relapse after Achieving a First Complete Remission: The ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group Experience
Ganzel, Chezi , Cripe, Larry D., Sun, Zhouxin, Fernández, Hugo F. , Cassileth, Peter A., Douer, Dan , Rowe, Jacob M. , Paietta, Elisabeth , Wiernik, Peter H. , Bennett, John M. , Litzow, Mark R. , Luger, Selina M. , Tallman, Martin S. , Sun, Zhouxin, O’Connell, Michael J. , Lazarus, Hillard M.

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 1315-1315

10.1182/blood.v126.23.1315.1315 Get It

Abstract This study was coordinated by the ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group (Robert L. Comis, MD and Mitchell D. Schnall, MD, PhD, Group Co-Chairs) and supported in part by Public Health Service Grants CA180794, CA180820, CA180795, CA180791, CA189859, CA180790, CA180853, and from the National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health and the Department of Health and Human Services. Its content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Cancer Institute. Background: Relapse after achieving a complete remission (CR) in AML portends for a poor prognosis and allogeneic transplant after achieving a second remission is the only chance for cure. Patients who undergo a transplant have a 30-40% chance of long term survival. This is a follow-up of a report published 10 years ago (Rowe JM, ASH 2005, abstract 546) and includes contemporary studies and longer follow-up. The study examines the long term overall survival (OS) of AML patients who relapsed after achieving first CR in 9 successive ECOG-ACRIN trials for newly-diagnosed AML patients (E3483, E3489, PC486, E3993, E4995, E1490, E3997, E1900 and E3999) from March 1984 to November 2008. Methods: OS was defined as time from first relapse to death from any cause. Kaplan-Meier estimates were used to estimate the event-time distributions for OS. Multivariate model stratified on protocol and treatment were used to examine whether the following factors are prognostic for OS from relapse: age, gender, cytogenetic risk, ECOG performance status, WBC, platelets, hemoglobin, marrow blasts, peripheral blasts, and duration of CR. All P values were based on 2-sided tests. Results: A total of 3160 patients were enrolled in the 9 studies. The median follow-up on patients still alive was 10.0 years. Among those 3160 patients enrolled, 1864 (58.9%) achieved first CR of which 1086 (58.2%) had documented relapse. The median age at diagnosis of the relapsed patients was 50 (range: 16-84) and 50.6% were males. Fifty percent of the patients had reliable cytogenetic results. Of those, 13.5% had favorable cytogenetics, 55.8% - intermediate and 30.6% had unfavorable baseline results. The median OS from relapse was 0.5 years. The 2- and 5-year OS were 16(±1)% and 10(±1)%, respectively. This is true in even the most contemporary studies (E1900 and E3999) with median OS of 0.6 and 0.4 years, respectively. By age stratification (< or ≥ 55), 5-year OS was 13(±1)% and 5(±1)%, respectively (figure 1). Among patients<55, those with unfavorable cytogenetics had the poorest prognosis (median OS of 0.4 years and 5-year OS of 6(±3)%. Those with favorable and intermediate cytogenetics had similar OS with 0.7 and 0.6 years median OS and 5-year OS of 16(±5)% and 17(±3)%, respectively (figure 2). Multivariate analysis was perfomed on 517 patients who had enough baseline information, including cytogenetics. Factors that were significantly associated with OS from relapse included: age (p<0.001), ECOG performance status (p=0.04), hemoglobin (p=0.03), cytogenetics (p=0.045) at baseline and duration of CR (p<0.001). Conclusions: The short- and long-term OS of AML patients post-relapse is dismal (<10%). Although age<55 and favorable cytogenetics at diagnosis are relatively good prognostic factors, the general survival of even these patients is very poor. Disappointingly, these data are also applicable to the most contemporary studies. Long-term survival was possible only in the minority of patients who survived the relapse, achieved a second CR and then successfully underwent an allogeneic transplant. These data are crucial when considering post-remission strategy, and suggest that offering a therapy most likely to lead to cure in CR1 is the preferred option. Figure 1. Probability of OS from relapse by age group Figure 1. Probability of OS from relapse by age group Figure 2. Probability of OS from relapse by cytogenetic risk for patients age <55 Figure 2. Probability of OS from relapse by cytogenetic risk for patients age <55 Disclosures Douer: Gilead: Consultancy. Rowe:BioSight Ltd.: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; BioLineRx Ltd.: Consultancy; Amgen: Consultancy.
Phase II Study of the Combination of Low-Dose Thalidomide, Prednisone, and Oral Cyclophosphamide (TPC Regimen) in the Treatment of Anemia, Splenomegaly, and Constitutional Symptoms Associated with Myelofibrosis with Myeloid Metaplasia (MMM).
Pardanani, Animesh , Litzow, Mark R. , Geyer, Susan M. , Zeldis, Jerome B. , Tefferi, Ayalew , Mesa, Ruben A. , Steensma, David P. , Hogan, William J. , Wu, Wenting

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 108 | Issue: 11 | Pages: 2689-2689

10.1182/blood.v108.11.2689.2689 Get It

Abstract BACKGROUND: We have previously reported on the therapeutic value of low-dose thalidomide in combination with prednisone (THAL-PRED) for the treatment of both anemia and thrombocytopenia in MMM (Blood2003;101:2534), with response rates of 62% and 75% for each cytopenia respectively. Alkylators have long been shown to have palliative benefit in MMM, however are used judiciously as long-term use could increase likelihood of leukemic transformation. Additionally, oral cyclophosphamide has been shown to synergize with thalidomide and steroids in the treatment of myeloma (Garcia-Sanz et. al. Leukemia2004;18:856–863). In the current study, we investigated the value of adding oral cyclophosphamide to THAL-PRED for MMM (TPC). METHODS: Study eligibility criteria included a histologically confirmed diagnosis of MMM and either severe anemia (hemoglobin < 10 g/dL) or symptomatic splenomegaly. Protocol treatment was initiated with 50 mg of oral thalidomide (THAL) daily, oral cyclophosphamide (CTX) 25 mg daily for three months, and a three month prednisone taper starting at 0.5 mg/kg/day for the first month followed by a 50% reduction for the second months and a further 50% reduction for the third and final month of treatment with prednisone. Patients with a demonstrable clinical response after three months were able to remain on thalidomide alone as maintenance. Responses were assessed by the International Working Group for Myelofibrosis Research and Treatment (IWG-MRT) criteria for MMM clinical responses (Tefferi et. al. Blood 2006; epub May 2006). RESULTS: 13 patients were enrolled to the trial (median age 73 years, range, 46–80; 7 males). Six patients (46%) completed the planned three cycles (i.e. 12 weeks) of treatment, the remaining seven patients discontinued treatment early for the following reasons: progression (n=3), patient choice (n=2), other medical problem (n=1) and died on study (n=1). After the initial 3 months of treatment, 3/13 (23%) patients evidenced a response (n = 1) or stable disease (n = 2) and continued on an additional three months of THAL alone. At enrollment, nine patients (69%) were anemic (8 of whom (62%) were red cell transfusion dependent). Ten patients (77%) were at least moderately thrombocytopenic (platelet count < 100 x 109//L). Eight patients (62%) had palpable hepatomegaly/splenomegaly, and five patients (38%) had severe constitutional symptoms (night sweats). According to IWG-MRT criteria for MMM the best responses observed from therapy was a CI (clinical improvement) in 2 individuals (one each for anemia (1/9 patients (11%); and thrombocytopenia (1/10 patients (10%)). No clear responses in organomegaly or constitutional symptoms were observed. The regimen overall was well tolerated with toxicities in excess of grade 2 all being related to myelosuppression (anemia (n=2), neutropenia (n=2), and thrombocytopenia (n=3)). CONCLUSIONS: This phase II study of combination therapy with thalidomide-prednisone-cyclophosphamide in patients with MMM strongly suggests that the addition of the alkylator cyclophosphamide largely negates the clinical benefits of THAL-PRED. This observation supports the potential immunologic mechanism of THAL-PRED benefit in MMM, and cautions against potential combinations of immunological and cytotoxic therapy in this disorder.
Clinical Outcome of Therapy-Related Acute Myeloid Leukemia Is Strongly Related to Cytogenetic Analysis
Fossum, Croix C. , Dias, Ajoy , Elliott, Michelle A. , Litzow, Mark R. , Al‐Kali, Aref , Ketterling, Rhett P. , Roeker, Lindsey E. , Hogan, William J.

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 1401-1401

10.1182/blood.v126.23.1401.1401 Get It

Abstract Background: Treatment-related AML (t-AML) accounts for 10 to 20% of all AML cases and carries an especially poor prognosis (Kayser et al. 2011, Godley et al. 2008). Patients diagnosed with t-AML are likely to have abnormal cytogenetic profiles with chromosome changes that are predictive of an aggressive malignancy, poor response to therapy, and decreased overall survival(Smith et al. 2003). The simultaneous use of multiple chemotherapeutic agents of different classes makes it increasingly difficult to predict risk for developing t-AML and determining disease course. An updated analysis of predictive factors for t-AML is needed so clinicians can more accurately inform patients of their prognosis. The aim of this study was to classify t-AML according to primary malignancy, previous chemotherapy exposure, and cytogenetic profile. Methods: A retrospective chart review of patients that were diagnosed with AML at Mayo Clinic from 7/1/1990 to 5/13/2015 was performed following IRB approval. AML patients found to have a previous malignancy treated with chemotherapy were classified as t-AML. Chemotherapeutics were classified as alkylating agents, antimetabolites, anti-tubulin agents, and topoisomerase II inhibitors. Patients diagnosed with a myelodysplastic or myeloproliferative disorder prior to development of AML were excluded from this study. Previous chemotherapy exposures, duration of chemotherapy exposure, complete blood count, chromosome abnormalities, and survival data were collected for t-AML cases. Cytogenetic changes were classified as favorable, intermediate, and adverse according to the system used by Kayser et al. 2011. JMP 10.0 was used for statistical analysis. Results: Out of 584 patients, 64 patients (11%) had a primary malignancy that was treated with chemotherapy prior to being diagnosed with AML. The most common primary malignancies were breast cancer (31%), non-Hodgkin lymphoma (27%), colorectal cancer (8%), and Hodgkin lymphoma (8%). Laboratory findings showed median hemoglobin 9.6 g/dL (4.7-13.8), median white blood cells 3.2 x109 (0.6-126), median platelets 50x109 (3-320), median peripheral blood blasts of 8% (0-91), and median bone marrow blasts 38% (1-94). 95% of patients diagnosed with t-AML had been previously treated with an alkylating agent. Additional exposure to an anti-metabolite trended towards a more adverse cytogenetic profile (χ2=5.0, p=0.08) but there was not a statistically significant decrease in overall survival (KM analysis, p=0.31). The median overall survival for patients diagnosed with t-AML was 10.2 months compared to 19.2 months for patients with de-novo AML (KM analysis, p=0.04). Adverse cytogenetic profiles were associated with decreased survival (KM analysis, p <0.0001). However, there was no difference in overall survival between patients with t-AML that had intermediate cytogenetics and those with de-novo AML (KM analysis, p=0.36). None of the chemotherapy classes other than antimetabolites were associated with poor cytogenetics or survival when combined with an alkylating agent. Conclusion: Over half of all patients classified as having t-AML in this study received prior chemotherapy for breast cancer or non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Cytogenetic classification of t-AML into favorable, intermediate and adverse groups is useful in predicting disease course. Interestingly, t-AML patients with intermediate risk cytogenetics had similar overall survival to patients with de-novo AML. This suggests that the poor outcomes observed in patients with t-AML is predominantly due to the subset with adverse cytogenetics. Thus, cytogenetic analysis remains the best indicator of overall survival regardless of chemotherapy exposure. Additional work is needed to delineate the risk associated with the aforementioned chemotherapy classes. Disclosures Al-Kali: Celgene: Research Funding.
Tipifarnib As Maintenance Therapy in Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) Improves Survival in a Subgroup of Patients with High Risk Disease. Results of the Phase III Intergroup Trial E2902
Luger, Selina M. , Wang, Victoria X., Paietta, Elisabeth , Rybka, Witold B. , Litzow, Mark R. , Rowe, Jacob M. , Appelbaum, Frederick R. , Tallman, Martin S. , Ketterling, Rhett P. , Lazarus, Hillard M. , Larson, Richard A.

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 1308-1308

10.1182/blood.v126.23.1308.1308 Get It

Abstract The ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group Led Trial, E2902, was a randomized phase III North American Leukemia Intergroup trial of the Farnesyl Transferase Inhibitor , R115777(Tipifarnib), as maintenance therapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Patients (pts) with AML in remission after requiring salvage therapy (primary induction failure or second or subsequent remission) or over the age of 60 in first remission were eligible. Pts were eligible if they were in a complete remission (CR) or complete remission without platelet recovery (CRp) as confirmed by bone marrow examination within 2 weeks prior to randomization. Consolidation or post remission therapy prior to enrollment was allowed but not required. Pts who had received an allogeneic transplant in this remission were ineligible. Adequate blood counts (absolute neutrophil count >= 1000/mm3 and platelet count >=50,000/mm3), and normal renal, and hepatic function were required within 2 weeks of randomization. Pts were randomized to either receive tipifarnib twice daily (BID) or to observation. Pts were stratified by remission ( CR1 vs > CR1) and whether or not they received consolidation therapy in the current remission. The main objective of this study was to compare disease free survival(DFS) in the two groups. Between August 2004 and December 2009, 144 pts were accrued to the study. The median age of the pts was 69 (range 28-86). Seventy-three pts (51%) were male and 135 pts (94%) were white. The majority of pts enrolled on the study (70%) were in first CR, and had post remission chemotherapy (56%) prior to randomization. Seventy-three pts were enrolled onto the treatment arm (Arm A) and 71 pts were enrolled onto the observation arm (Arm B). When the study was initially opened, pts on Arm A were treated with tipifarnib at a dose of 400 mg BID with dose reductions and interruptions defined per protocol for toxicity. After the first planned interim analysis, based on toxicity data, the ECOG Data Monitoring Committee recommended that the starting dose be decreased to 300 mg BID. While non-hematologic toxicity was acceptable, significant hematologic toxicity was seen in pts treated at an initial dose of either 400 mg or 300 mg BID. Of note, hematologic toxicity was also seen on the observation arm although less frequently than with both treatment doses. The primary endpoint of the study was analysis of DFS on an intent to treat basis. The median DFS for arms A and B are 8.87 months and 5.26 months respectively ( p=0.058, HR 0.760). When restricted to eligible patients only(n=134 ), the DFS for arms A and B are 10.81 vs 5.26 months, respectively ( p=0.019, HR 0.690). An unplanned subgroup analysis was performed by gender. The median DFS for male pts (n=73) is 5.36 vs 5.91 months for arms A and B respectively (p=0.868, HR 1.320) and 12.09 vs 3.91 months for female pts (n=71)(p=0.0002, HR=0.408) In a multivariate Cox proportional hazards model to adjust for baseline clinical variables, there is a significant interaction between treatment and gender. (Table 1) Similar results were noted for OS (Figure 1). ECOG ACRIN Trial E2902 evaluated the potential role of Tipifarnib ( R115777) in patients with AML in remission with a high risk of relapse. While the primary endpoint for improved DFS was not reached when evaluating all randomized pts, when restricted to eligible patients only, there is a statistically significant improvement in DFS seen. Moreover, an unplanned subgroup analysis by gender demonstrates an improvement in DFS and OS for females who were enrolled on the study which persists on multivariate analysis. Possible explanations include the use of flat dosing rather than BSA based dosing on this study. However futher evaluation of patient and disease characteristics, dosing and toxicity profiles of responders and nonresponders is needed. Given what appears to be a potentially clinically relevant benefit, further evaluation of this agent is warranted. Table 1. Multivariate Cox Proportional Hazards Model for DFS: All Randomized Patients Hazard Ratio (95% CI) P value Arm B vs A 2.559(1.547,4.236) 0.00025 Male vs Female 2.005(1.228,3.274) 0.00544 CR1 vs >CR1 0.447 (0.305,0.656) 0.00004 Figure 1. (A) DFS (B) OS in Female Patients Figure 1. (A) DFS (B) OS in Female Patients Disclosures Rowe: BioSight Ltd.: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Amgen: Consultancy; BioLineRx Ltd.: Consultancy. Larson:Astellas: Consultancy, Research Funding.
Early T-Lymphocyte Chimerism Kinetics Is Influenced By Conditioning Regimen in Reduced Intensity Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation
Farhadfar, Nosha , Moussab, Damlaj, Dias, Ajoy , Litzow, Mark R. , Hashmi, Shahrukh K. , Patnaik, Mrinal M. , Alkhateeb, Hassan B. , Hogan, William J.

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 1923-1923

10.1182/blood.v126.23.1923.1923 Get It

Abstract Introduction: Disease relapse remains one of the major causes of treatment failure in hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) following reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) regimens. Donor chimerism assessment early after HSCT may help identify patients at risk for relapse who may benefit from additional therapeutic interventions but its precise role in this setting is unclear. In addition, the differential impact of conditioning regimen is not well studied. Aim: 1. Study the impact of early full T-lymphocyte chimerism (T-lymphocyte chimerism ≥ 90% on day 30 to 60) on relapse incidence (RI) and acute graft versus host disease (aGVHD) in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) following RIC-HSCT. 2. Looking at the tempo of achievement of complete donor T-lymphocyte chimerism based on the two most common RIC regimens, Fludarabine/Melphalan (FM) and Fludarabine/Busulfan (FB). Method: After IRB approval, patients with AML or MDS who underwent RIC-HSCT with FB or FM between 2008 and 2014 at our institution were identified. Post-transplantation CD3 (lymphocyte) and CD33 (myeloid) donor chimerism were measured per protocol using PCR-based analysis of short tandem repeats. Categorical and continuous variables were analyzed using Pearson's chi-squared and Wilcoxon / Kruskal-Wallis, respectively. Survival estimates were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier and log-rank test. RI was estimated accounting NRM on a competing event analysis using Grey's model. Cox proportional regression was used to compute hazard ratios (HR). Results: Baseline characteristics: Out of 134 patients who received FM or FB, 75 patients had evaluable early sorted chimerism data. 42 and 33 patients received FB and FM, respectively. Patient, disease and transplant variables were balanced in both FM and FB (Table 1). The median follow up of the cohort was 37 months (2.4-43) and at last follow up 29.1% of patients relapsed and 59% died. All patients achieved early complete myeloid chimerism whereas T-lymphocyte chimerism was complete in 50 patients and mixed in 25 patients. Characteristics of early lymphocyte chimerism by status are shown in table 1. Notably, likelihood of achieving complete T-lymphocyte chimerism ≥ 90% at 60 days was 100% versus 47% in FM and FB respectively (p <0.0001). Acute graft versus host disease: There was no significant difference in incidence of grade II-IV aGVHD between patients with full early donor T-lymphocyte chimerism in comparison to those with early mixed donor chimerism (46% vs. 48%, p =0.87). Impact of full chimerism and conditioning regimen on RI and overall survival (OS): Among the entire cohort, patients achieving early full T-lymphocyte chimerism had a significantly lower RI compared to those with mixed chimerism with a HR of 0.38 (CI 0.14-0.97; p=0.044) but OS was not significantly different with HR 0.69 (CI 0.33-1.51; p=0.34). In patients conditioned with FB, there was no difference in 2-year RI between complete or mixed early T-lymphocyte chimerism at 38.2% and 40.7% respectively (p = 0.9). After FM conditioning, all patients achieved early T-lymphocyte chimerism and the 2-year RI was 6.9%. Achievement of early complete lymphocyte chimerism post FB in comparison to FM was associated with significantly higher risk of relapse (HR 8.6 CI 2.07-57, p=0.0025). Furthermore, there was a trend towards worse OS with FB vs. FM with a median of 23 vs. 44 months, respectively (p = 0.058). Conclusion: Similar to prior reports, we observed that full T-lymphocyte chimerism is associated with decreased relapse risk without an increase in aGVHD. Our findings also suggest that RIC with FM yields a higher incidence of early complete T-lymphocyte chimerism and is significantly associated with decreased risk of relapse compared to FB. There was a greater risk of relapse in the FB group, even among those achieving early complete donor lymphoid chimerism. This needs further validation given the small sample size. Figure 1. Figure 1. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
North American Cooperative Group Members' Patterns of Blood Products Transfusion for Patients with Acute Leukemia
Litzow, Mark R. , Luger, Selina M. , Stone, Richard M. , Garcia‐Manero, Guillermo , Lee, Alfred Ian , Barbarotta, Lisa, Gore, Steven D. , Pine, Alexander B. , Lee, Eun‐Ju , Sekeres, Mikkael A. , Steensma, David P. , Prébet, Thomas , Dezern, Amy Elizabeth , Komrokji, Rami S. , Erba, Harry Paul , Podoltsev, Nikolai , Hendrickson, Jeanne E. , Zeidan, Amer M.

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 1138-1138

10.1182/blood.v126.23.1138.1138 Get It

Abstract Background. Transfusion of blood products is an integral component of the management of patients with acute leukemias. However, high-quality evidence and clinical trial data to support specific practices of blood product transfusion in this population are limited. We hypothesized that there is wide variation in blood product transfusion practices among providers in North America who manage patients with acute leukemia. Methods. A 30-question web-based survey about transfusion practices was emailed to members of the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG)-ACRIN Cancer Research Group, Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology (Alliance), and the Southwest Oncology Group (SWOG), and the Cancer Trials Support Unit (CTSU) on 7/6/2015 with 4 subsequent weekly reminders. The distribution list included 9,859 recipients, of whom at least 741 were providers who treated patients with acute leukemia. Responses were anonymous, and the survey distribution was approved by the respective cooperative group chairs. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Results. Of 254 responses received, 113 were excluded as they were returned by recipients not directly treating patients with acute leukemia. Another 30 responses were excluded due to incomplete data, leaving 111 responses (43.7%) eligible for the primary analysis. Of those, 109 responders were from North America representing 83 institutions in 33 states and the province of Ontario. Eighty-four of the included responders (75.7%) were physicians, and 44 (39.6%) were females. Median age of responders was 44 years (range, 26-76). A hemoglobin (Hb) level of ≤7 g/dL was the most commonly used threshold (44%) for red blood cell (RBCs) transfusions to asymptomatic stable hospitalized patients, followed closely by 8 g/dL (38%) (Figure 1). In the outpatient setting, the most commonly reported threshold was 8 gm/dL (49%) (Figure 1). Most providers reported that they "always" use leukocyte-reduced (93%) and irradiated (79%) RBCs. A platelet level of 10,000/µL was the threshold for platelet transfusions in the stable non-bleeding hospitalized patients cited by the majority of responders (76%) (Figure 2). This platelet level remained the most common threshold for platelet transfusions for non-bleeding patients in the outpatient setting (49%), although 31% of responders reported a higher threshold of 20,000/µL. A preference for single-donor apheresis platelets was reported by 81% respondents, and 57% use these products exclusively. Most providers (70%) reported always using irradiated platelets. With respect to cryoprecipitate and plasma infusions, nearly half of the respondents reported a threshold fibrinogen level of 100 mg/dL as a trigger for administering a product to a stable non-bleeding patient (Figure 3). The most commonly reported platelet threshold for performing a bone marrow biopsy (BMB) was 10,000/μL (69% of responders), followed by 20,000 (21%), 50,000 (6%), and 30,000 (4%). Therapeutic anticoagulation was held by most responders (80%) before performing a BMB. Most responders (73%) reported a platelet level of 50,000/µL as the lowest level for performing a lumbar puncture (LP) without prophylactic platelet transfusion. Conclusions. This survey demonstrates wide variability in blood product transfusion patterns among providers who treat patients with acute leukemias. A platelet level of 10,000/µL is the most common trigger for platelet transfusions for stable non-bleeding patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. This, along with a platelet threshold of 50,000/µL for performing an LP, appear to be most widely accepted practices. Our findings emphasize the need to obtain high-quality data to develop consensus evidence-based guidelines for transfusion practices in acute leukemia with the goal of limiting unnecessary transfusions without compromising patient outcomes. Figure 1. The most common reported hemoglobin level thresholds for red blood cell transfusions in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Figure 1. The most common reported hemoglobin level thresholds for red blood cell transfusions in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Figure 2. The most common reported platelet level thresholds for platelet transfusions in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Figure 2. The most common reported platelet level thresholds for platelet transfusions in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Figure 3. The most common reported fibrinogen level thresholds for cryoprecipitate or plasma transfusions in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Figure 3. The most common reported fibrinogen level thresholds for cryoprecipitate or plasma transfusions in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Disclosures Sekeres: TetraLogic: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene Corporation: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Amgen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Steensma:Onconova: Consultancy; Incyte: Consultancy; Amgen: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy. Prebet:CELGENE: Research Funding. Komrokji:Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Incite: Consultancy; Novartis: Speakers Bureau; GSK: Research Funding. Stone:Merck: Consultancy; AROG: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy; Sunesis: Consultancy, Other: DSMB for clinical trial; Abbvie: Consultancy; Novartis: Research Funding; Juno: Consultancy; Amgen: Consultancy; Roche/Genetech: Consultancy; Celator: Consultancy; Agios: Consultancy; Karyopharm: Consultancy; Pfizer: Consultancy. Erba:GlycoMimetics; Janssen: Other: Data Safety & Monitoring Committees; Sunesis; Pfizer; Daiichi Sankyo; Ariad: Consultancy; Millennium/Takeda; Celator; Astellas: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics; Amgen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Novartis; Incyte; Celgene: Consultancy, Patents & Royalties. Barbarotta:Celgene, BMS, Novartis: Speakers Bureau. Gore:Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding.
North American Leukemia, Intergroup Phase III Randomized Trial of Single Agent Clofarabine As Induction and Post-Remission Therapy, and Decitabine As Maintenance Therapy in Newly-Diagnosed Acute Myeloid Leukemia in Older Adults (Age ≥60 Years): A Trial of
Foran, James M. , Sun, Zhuoxin , Thomas, Mary , Paietta, Elisabeth , Rowe, Jacob M. , Altman, Jessica K. , Luger, Selina M. , Al‐Kali, Aref , Zheng, Hong , Pratz, Keith W. , Broun, E. Randolph, Powell, Bayard L., O’Dwyer, Kristen M. , Litzow, Mark R. , Tallman, Martin S. , Claxton, David F. , Lazarus, Hillard M. , Melnick, Ari , Levine, Ross L. , Arber, Daniel A. , Zhang, Yangming , Godwin, John E. , O'Dwyer, Kristin

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 217-217

10.1182/blood.v126.23.217.217 Get It

Abstract Background: Induction therapy with daunorubicin (Dauno) & cytarabine (Ara-C) [DA] has been the standard of care for eligible older adults (age ≥ 60 years) with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) for over 2 decades. Single agent Clofarabine (CLO) induction & consolidation (Consol.) therapy has demonstrated important clinical activity in this age group in large phase II studies. Lower induction mortality (IM) & similar reported complete remission rate (CR) & overall survival (OS), as well as notable activity in those with higher risk disease features [including unfavorable cytogenetics, therapy-related AML (t-AML) & prior antecedent hematologic disorder (AHD)] raises the possibility that a non-Ara-C-based regimen could achieve similar or superior OS with lower toxicity. Methods: We performed a randomized United States Intergroup Phase III trial of single agent CLO [30mg/m2 x 5 days induction; 20 mg/m2 re-induction (if indicated) & 2 cycles Consol.] vs. standard DA therapy [Dauno 60mg/m2 D1-3 & Ara-C 100mg/m2 D1-7 induction x 1-2 cycles; 2 cycles Consol. with Ara-C (1.5g/m2 Q12hrs D1-6 age 60-69; once daily if age 70+)] in patients (pts) age ≥ 60 yrs with newly diagnosed AML. Patients with serum creatinine >1.0 (or GFR <60 mL/min) and those with AML-M3 and ECOG performance status >3 (PS>2 if age 70+ yrs) were excluded. Randomization was stratified by age (60-69 vs. 70+), t-AML, & AHD. Pts with HLA-matched donor were eligible for allogeneic transplantation (AlloHCT) after induction, and those completing Consol. were eligible for randomization #2 (R#2) to maintenance decitabine [20mg/m2 x 3D, monthly x 1 year] versus observation. With a target accrual of 747, E2906 was powered to determine non-inferiority [and possible superiority] of CLO vs. standard DA, and primary endpoint was OS. A weighted statistical analysis was performed to account for confounding impact of R#2. AlloHCT patients were censored at transplant in this analysis. Responses & cytogenetics were confirmed centrally and OS & CR rates were monitored by an independent Data Safety Monitoring Committee (DSMC) at pre-specified time points. Results: As of Feb 23, 2015, 727 pts were randomized. Median age was 68 years (range 60-86); 57% were male, and 38% were age ≥70 yrs. Treatment arms are well balanced for all baselineclinical & AML characteristics, & 30% had unfavorable cytogenetics. Of 659 with complete treatment information reported, 30.4% on DA vs. 40.1% on CLO received 2 cycles of induction (p=0.006). Median follow-up of surviving patients is 7.6 months. Table 1. shows early treatment results (CR, toxicity) for the 686 pts randomized as of Dec 23, 2014 (2 months prior to study end, & excluding 90 with ongoing response evaluation). DA CLO p-value CR/CRi 43.8% 42.8% p=0.87 30-day mortality 8.5% 7.9% p=0.89 60-day mortality 14.9% 13.1% p=0.58 Gr 4-5 Non-Heme Tox.Induction 27% 19% p=0.02 Gr 4-5 Non-Heme Tox.Consol. 20% 7% p=0.001 374 pts have died (174, DA; 200, CLO) & significantly inferior OS was observed for CLO vs. DA [Hazard Ratio (HR) 1.41 (95% CI 1.12-1.78)] (Fig. 1). Planned subgroup analyses were performed (Table 2) demonstrating significant differences in OS after CLO for patients age 60-69 yrs, without AHD, & with intermediate risk cytogenetics; but not for those with Unfav. Cytogen. (Fig. 2) or t-AML. Based on the primary weighted analysis, DSMC recommended suspension of new accrual to E2906 on Feb 23, 2015 & all active patients on CLO were transitioned to DA Arm. Table 2.NHR CLO/Standard (95% CI)*Weighted OS7271.41 (1.12-1.78)Unweighted OS7271.23 (1.00-1.50)Age 60-694491.48 (1.10-1.99)Age 70+2781.34 (0.93-1.93)Intermed. Risk Cytogen.3781.77 (1.27-2.47)Unfav. Risk Cytogen.2160.96 (0.65-1.43)No AHD6041.46 (1.13-1.89)AHD1231.22 (0.74-2.00)De novo AML6271.52 (1.18-1.96)Therapy-related AML1000.94 (0.54-1.61) Conclusions: Despite similar CR & IM, OS after single agent CLO is inferior to standard DA therapy for pts age ≥60 years with newly diagnosed AML who are fit for intensive therapy, and DA remains the standard of care. However no difference in OS was observed after CLO in some pre-specified high risk AML subgroups. R#2 & AlloHCT arms continue in E2906 for pts already enrolled. Embedded prospective minimal residual disease study at CR is being performed to identify pts at higher risk after CLO & DA. Figure 1. Weighted Kaplan-Meier Curves for OS Figure 1. Weighted Kaplan-Meier Curves for OS Figure 2. Unfavorable Cytogenetics OS by Therapy Figure 2. Unfavorable Cytogenetics OS by Therapy Disclosures Off Label Use: Use of clofarabine in AML, and maintenance therapy with decitabine in AML. Claxton:Medimmune: Research Funding; BMS: Consultancy; Astellas: Research Funding; Cyclacel: Research Funding; Merck: Research Funding; Ambit: Research Funding. Levine:Loxo Oncology: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; CTI BioPharma: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Foundation Medicine: Consultancy. Altman:Seattle Genetics: Consultancy; BMS: Consultancy; Spectrum: Consultancy; Astellas: Consultancy; Ariad: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy. Al-Kali:Novartis: Research Funding.
Incidence and Outcomes of Neutropenia in Patients with Celiac Disease- a Consecutive Analysis of 1729 Patients
Vijayvargiya, Pooja , Gangat, Naseema , Litzow, Mark R. , Vijayvargiya, Priya , Patnaik, Mrinal M. , Go, Ronald S. , Murray, Joseph A.

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 1013-1013

10.1182/blood.v126.23.1013.1013 Get It

Abstract Background : Celiac disease (gluten sensitive enteropathy) is a systemic disease with hematological manifestations including; iron deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 and folate deficiency, leukopenia/neutropenia, hyposplenism, venous thromboembolism, and the enteropathy associated T cell lymphoma (E-TCL). Leukopenia/neutropenia is rare, and can result from folate or copper deficiency, but in many cases remains idiopathic. The consequences of neutropenia and neutrophil responses to a gluten free diet are not well described. We carried out this study to assess the incidence and outcomes of neutropenia in patients with celiac disease. Methods : The Mayo clinic celiac disease database (n=1729) was retrospectively analyzed for all patients with a confirmed diagnosis of celiac disease that had leukopenia (<3.5 x10(9)/L) and/or neutropenia (<1.5 x 10(9)/L). The diagnosis of celiac disease was established by positive tissue transglutaminase antibodies (TTG) and confirmatory small bowel biopsy findings. Additional causes of neutropenia such as copper and folate deficiency, drugs, benign ethnic and cyclic neutropenia, chemotherapy, hematological malignancies, combined variable immunodeficiency (CVID), and autoimmune diseases were meticulously excluded. Data abstracted included demographics, temporal association with diagnosis, nadir counts, associated hematological findings, relationship with infections, the use and effect of G-CSF, response to gluten free diet and survival outcomes. Results: 21(1.2%) of 1729 cases screened had idiopathic-celiac related neutropenia; 17 (81%) Caucasian, 15 (48%) females. In 12(57%) patients the neutropenia preceded or occurred near the time of the diagnosis of celiac disease, while in 7 (33.3%) it occurred subsequently. In 2 cases the temporal association could not be established. The median age at diagnosis of celiac disease was 46 years (10-67) and the median follow up for this group was 41.7 months (0-207.3). At last follow up 1 (4.8%) death has been documented; 0 from infectious complications, with no cases of E-TCL. The median laboratory values at diagnosis of celiac disease were available in 11 (52%) patients and included; hemoglobin 12.9 g/dL (10.5-16.8), MCV 91.5 fl (79.6-102.8), WBC 3.2 x109/L (2.3-5.2), ANC 1.29x109/L (0.33-3.24), ALC 1.34x109/L (0.75-2.17), AMC 0.39x109/L (0.15-0.71), and platelet counts 225x109/L (168-711). Anti-granulocyte antibodies were assessed in 7 patients and were negative in all cases. None of these patients had coexistent hyposplenism and three cases of neutropenia that occurred in the setting of celiac disease and CVID were excluded. In 15 (71%) patients the neutropenia was incidentally detected during routine laboratory work and in 4 (19%) it came to light secondary to infections. Ten (48%) patients had recurrent infections (≥1) as documented by their providers, including 7 with sinopulmonary infections, 1 with urinary tract infections, and 1 with skin and soft tissue infections. Additional immunological assessments were not available in these patients. Three (14%) patients had an ANC <500 (significant neutropenia); of which 2 had recurrent sinopulmonary infections. The third patient remained largely asymptomatic. Two of the 3 patients received G-CSF support during infections and responded adequately (ANC improvement > 1 x 10(9)/L). The ANC in patients in this cohort did not correlate with severity of infections. Five (23%) of 21 patients had improvement in neutrophil counts after adopting a gluten free diet, while there was no response in 10 and data was unavailable in 6. The median time to ANC response was 14.5 months (10-15.3) and the median increment in ANC was 0.67 x 10(9)/L (0.48-0.98). Conclusions: Celiac disease associated neutropenia, especially significant neutropenia (ANC <500) is a rare occurrence (~1%). It can often pre-date the diagnosis of celiac disease or occur subsequently. It is potentially associated with an increased incidence of infections, with-out good correlation with the severity of neutropenia. Less than half the patients do seem to respond to a gluten free diet. G-CSF responses seem to be adequate and G-CSF can be used in the setting of severe infections. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Spectrum of Phenotypic Manifestations of a Novel c1339A>C, pS447R Germline GATA2 Mutation
Kochuparambil, Samith T. , Jackson, Amie E., Litzow, Mark R. , Khan, Shakila P. , Rodriguez, Vilmarie , Abraham, Roshini S. , Patnaik, Mrinal M. , Hogan, William J.

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 124 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 5614-5614

10.1182/blood.v124.21.5614.5614 Get It

Abstract Background: Haploinsufficiency of GATA2 results in familial immunodeficiency and MDS/ AML. We identified a family with a novel c1339A>C, pS447R germline GATA2 mutation. Unlike most other disease-causing GATA2 mutations, this mutation occurred in the non-zinc finger domain. Methods: After due IRB approval, clinical and laboratory data were retrospectively abstracted. Results: Seven family members with the mutation are being followed at our institution. (Table 1), of whom two have MDS, one MDS/AML and one with isolated neutropenia. At the time of diagnosis 5/7(71%) pt had decreased monocyte count. 4/7(57%) patients had decreased NK cell count and/or function. Only 1/7(14%) patient had decreased CD4 count. 3/7(42%) patients had reduced B cell numbers and 5/7(71%) patients had persistent HPV warts. Other infections include invasive Absidia sinusitis, infectious mononucleosis, pertussis, and blood stream infections with S. maltophilia and S.aureus. One patient had the Emberger's syndrome presenting with lymphedema and congenital pulmonary stenosis. Pulmonary manifestation included a patient each with decreased DCLO and hyperreactive airway disease. Genitourinary manifestations included pelvic kidney/dysplastic kidney, posterior urethral valve, dermoid cyst and hydrocele. Two female patients developed primary infertility. One patient had a history of appendicular carcinoid. 4/7(57%) patients have successfully undergone allogenic stem-cell transplantation. Conclusion: Germline GATA2 mutations are associated with a high frequency of MDS/AML. We describe a family with a non-zinc finger GATA2 mutation causing MDS/AML, with a spectrum of hematological and non-hematological manifestations, once again, highlighting the heterogeneity of this syndrome and expanding the genotype-phenotype correlation in this disease. Abstract 5614. Table#Age/sexHemDAbso . MonoCount Abso. CD4 TCellNK cyto-toxicityAbso. NK CountAbso.B cell CountInfectiousDermCoag/VascularCVS/LungOthersNo.137/MAMLSeverely DecreasedNormalAbsentSeverely DecreasedAbsentAbsidia S.maltop- hilia S.aureusHPV WartsITP -Hydrocele 10 hyperparathyroidismNo.231/FMDSDecreasedNormalAbsentDecreasedNormalInfectious MonoHPV Warts-Hyper- reactive airwayInfertilityNo.317/FMDSSeverely DecreasedNormalUnknownDecreasedDecreasedHerpes stomatitisHPV Warts-Dec-DCLOPosterior urethral valveNo.49/MNeutropeniaSeverely DecreasedNormalNormalNormalNormalHSV-1HPV Warts Embergers syndrome Pul. Stenosis Congenital dysplastic Rt. Kidney Pelvic Lt. KidneyNo.531/F-DecreasedNormalDecreasedNormalNormal- -Qualitative platelet defectNoneInfertilityNo.635/F-NormalNormalDecreasedDecreasedDecreasedPertussisHPV Warts--Dermoid appendicular carcinoid No.756/F-NormalNormalNormalNormalNormalFrequent PNA---- Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Integrated DNA/RNA Profiling for Somatic Alterations in Adult B-Cell ALL
Patel, Jay , He, Jie , Brennan, Timothy, Nahas, Michelle, Balassubramanian, Sohail, Otto, Geoff, Lipson, Doron , Stephens, Phil , Miller, Vincent A. , Racevskis, Janis, Litzow, Mark R. , Wiernik, Peter H. , Goldstone, Anthony H., Luger, Selina M. , Viale, Agnès , Rowe, Jacob M. , Tallman, Martin S. , Paietta, Elisabeth , Gönen, Mithat , Rapaport, Franck, van den Brink, Marcel R M , Melnick, Ari , Levine, Ross L.

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 1422-1422

10.1182/blood.v126.23.1422.1422 Get It

Abstract Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) is the most common malignancy observed in the pediatric population. Recent genomic studies have made considerable strides in improving our understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of pediatric B-cell ALL. This includes the discovery of recurrent somatic alterations targeting B-cell transcription factors, mutations in epigenetic regulators, and oncogenic mutations which activate signaling effectors, including in Ph-like B-ALL. However, the molecular pathogenesis of adult B-cell ALL has been less well studied, and there is a need to identify novel therapeutic targets in adult B-ALL. We therefore performed detailed genomic profiling in adults with B-cell ALL. We performed targeted DNA/RNA capture and sequencing of 189 patients with B-cell ALL enrolled on the ECOG E2993 clinical trial. All samples were taken at the time of diagnosis before patients were treated with multi-agent chemotherapy and followed for clinical outcomes including overall survival and remission/relapse duration and kinetics. We used the FoundationOne® Heme assay for our genomics study. This platform allows us to identify short events (point substitutions, short insertions/deletions) copy number and fusion events present in DNA and/or RNA. Of the 203 samples profiled, 189 had sufficient quality genomic data with a median coverage of 435 on DNA sequencing and 7.85 million on target distinct reads per case on RNA sequencing. In all, we identified cancer-related mutations in 108 genes, 55 of these genes being mutated in more than one sample. We identified a median of 2.98 genomic alterations per sample (standard deviation of 1.78) in the target gene set, which included all genes known to be altered in B-ALL and in other hematologic malignancies. The most common genomic events were the BCR-ABL1 fusion (69 samples, 36.5%), followed by CDKN2A loss (57 samples, 30%), CDKN2B loss (35 samples, 18%), NRAS and KRAS point mutations (32 samples, 16.9%), and MLL fusion genes with a spectrum of partners (25 samples, 13.2%). Notably, we found that BCR-ABL1 fusion are mutually exclusive with both RAS mutations (p<10^-7) and MLL mutations (p<5*10^-4). We next investigated the spectrum and frequency of alterations observed in different classes of oncogenes/tumor suppressors. We identified mutations which result in activation of oncogenic signaling pathways in 130 cases or 68.7% of our cohort. This included known mutations/fusions, such as BCR-ABL, RAS-MAPK pathway mutations, and JAK-STAT pathway alterations, and included missense alleles, insertion/deletion events, and fusion genes targeting a spectrum of genes including ABL, PDGFRB, and CRLF2. In aggregate, 33.8% of the cohort had mutations which activate signaling exclusive of BCR-ABL, demonstrating the high prevalence of the Ph-like B-ALL subtype in adult B-ALL. We identified mutations affecting key transcription factors, including PAX5 and IKZF1, in 31.2% of our cohort including missense, nonsense and deletion events. To confirm our ability to detect small deletions of PAX5 and IKZF1, we performed array CGH of 50 cases and compared copy number calls using high-throughput sequencing and CGH. Of note, all deletions targeting PAX5 and IKZF1 identified by NGS were confirmed by CGH. We also identified mutations in epigenetic regulators in 30.6% of cases, including MLL fusions, mutations in the DNA methylation/hydroxymethylation the pathway (DNMT3A, TET1, TET2), and mutations targeted chromatin modulators. Detailed analyses of the mutational spectra and their relationship to clinical outcome will be presented at the meeting. Taken together, these data show we can use a clinically validated sequencing assay to identify known and novel somatic mutations in adult B-ALL, including sequence alterations, rearrangements and copy number aberrations. These data demonstrate the feasibility of combined DNA and RNA study to identify a complex landscape of fusions and short mutations with prognostic and therapeutic relevance, and inform the use of genomic profiling in B-ALL in the clinical context. Figure 1. Figure 1. Disclosures He: Foundation Medicine, Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership. Brennan:Foundation Medicine, Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership. Nahas:Foundation Medicine, Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership. Balassubramanian:Foundation Medicine, Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership. Otto:Foundation Medicine, Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership. Lipson:Foundation Medicine, Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership. Stephens:Foundation Medicine, Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership. Miller:Foundation Medicine, Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership. van den Brink:Boehringer Ingelheim: Consultancy, Other: Advisory board attendee; Merck: Honoraria; Regeneron: Honoraria; Novartis: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Tobira Therapeutics: Other: Advisory board attendee. Rowe:Amgen: Consultancy; BioSight Ltd.: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; BioLineRx Ltd.: Consultancy. Levine:Foundation Medicine: Consultancy; CTI BioPharma: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Loxo Oncology: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees.