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6 citation(s) found for "Faiman, Beth M".

Unwinding the genomic threads of monoclonal gammopathy of renal significance through ultra-low pass whole genome sequencing
Williams, Louis, Iftikhar, Taha, Mazzoni, Sandra, Raza, Shahzad, Khouri, Jack, Mehdi, Ali, Choles, Hernan Rincon, Samaras, Christy, Basali, Diana, Ali, Hossam M., Hanna, John, Brunstein, Claudio, Faiman, Beth, Blaney, Patrick, Davies, Faith, Diamond, Benjamin, Leung, Nelson, Morgan, Gareth, Valent, Jason, Anwer, Faiz, Jha, Babal, Ali, Hossam M. , Ali, Hossam M , Williams, Louis, Iftikhar, Taha, Mazzoni, Sandra, Raza, Shahzad, Khouri, Jack, Mehdi, Ali, Choles, Hernan Rincon, Samaras, Christy, Basali, Diana, Ali, Hossam M., Hanna, John, Brunstein, Claudio, Faiman, Beth, Blaney, Patrick, Davies, Faith, Diamond, Benjamin, Leung, Nelson, Morgan, Gareth, Valent, Jason, Anwer, Faiz, Jha, Babal

Blood | December 4, 2025 | Volume: 146 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 3970-3970

10.1182/blood-2025-3970 Get It

Abstract Introduction The monoclonal gammopathies of renal significance (MGRS) are defined by the presence of a nephrotoxic monoclonal protein in the absence of a well-defined malignant entity. Mechanistically it has been postulated that, across the varied subtypes of MGRS, abnormal plasma cell or B-cell clones in the marrow produce nephrotoxic proteins; however, in many cases, no paraprotein is detected by conventional laboratory methods and the bone marrow can be morphologically normal. The genomic underpinnings of MGRS are unexplored and, due to the rarity of this disease, clinicians are often left to unable to determine the exact nature of the clonal cell populations. We carried out a pilot study to characterize ctDNA in MGRS patients (pts). The first phase of the protocol sought to collect peripheral blood samples and, when possible, matched bone marrow aspirates, from MGRS pts to evaluate the feasibility of ultra-low pass whole genome sequencing (ULP-WGS) from peripheral blood to identify and characterize ctDNA. Methods We report ULP-WGS results from peripheral blood samples in the initial phase of the study. Peripheral blood samples were collected from renal biopsy proven non-amyloidosis MGRS pts prior to the initiation of treatment. Cell free DNA (cfDNA) was extracted and quantified. A total of 5-20 ng of cfDNA input was used for ULP-WGS. Libraries were pooled and sequenced using 100-bp paired-end runs to an average genome-wide coverage of 0.5x. After deconvolution and alignment, fragments with size 90-150bp were extracted using samtools. IchorCNA was utilized to calculate tumor fraction based on a panel of normals derived from three plasma samples from healthy controls. Model parameters were optimized for low tumor fraction and a threshold of 3% ctDNA was used to identify positive samples. Renal responses were assessed based on International Kidney and Monoclonal Gammopathy (IKMG) group criteria. Results Nine pts and were consented and gave samples for the study along with 3 healthy controls. Seven pts were sequenced, 4 of which were females and 3 were males. Median age was 58 years. Among sequenced pts, 5 presented with proliferative glomerulonephritis with monoclonal immune deposition (PGNMID) and 2 with light chain deposition disease (LCDD). Both patients with LCDD were kappa predominant and showed detectable plasma clones (8% and 3%). One of these pts displayed t(11:14) on bone marrow FISH testing. Among the 5 pts with PGNMID, 3 had IgG kappa deposition and only one had a detectable plasma clone (5%), which harbored trisomy 9 by FISH. Bone marrow flow cytometry was positive in 2 pts. Median 24-hour urine protein content was 7.11g (0.92 – 10.58), median serum albumin 3.20 g/dL (2.90 – 4.90) and median serum creatinine at the time of diagnosis was 2.15 mg/dL (1.30-6.40). CKD was present in 6 of 7 pts at the time of diagnosis. Four pts had known hypertension. One exhibited a history of malignancy and one had a history of autoimmune disease. ctDNA was detectable at a threshold of > 3.0% of cfDNA in 5 of 7 pts. Median ctDNA content was 4.0% (3.18% - 14.97%) of cfDNA. Four of the 5 samples containing ctDNA were hyperdiploid. Chromosome 19 was the most common site of copy number increase whereas chromosomes 6, 10, and 18 exhibited the most frequent decreases in copy number. Two pts with PGNMID had detectable ctDNA without evidence of a serological or marrow-based clone. All pts received daratumumab, cyclophosphamide, bortezomib and dexamethasone as initial treatment. Five pts responded to therapy. Two patients ultimately underwent autologous stem cell transplant and a single patient received venetoclax as second line therapy. Of the patients exhibiting detectable ctDNA, three did not exhibit renal response to initial treatment. Both pts without ctDNA had PGNMID and responded to frontline treatment. Mass spectrometry analysis and deep targeted sequencing of bone marrow aspirates and peripheral blood will be presented. Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first study to detect ctDNA in MGRS. ULP-WGS, when combined with targeted sequencing and diagnostic modalities such as mass spectrometry, has the potential to not only to aid in diagnosis and treatment selection on a practical basis, but also to begin to unravel the underlying genomics of this rare disease. This approach has potential to serve as a platform for further genomic exploration and biomarker development in MGRS.
Letter to the Editor regarding ‘Evaluating nurse preferences for a novel on-body delivery system vs. manual syringes for large-volume subcutaneous drug administration: a survey study’
Desai, Mehul , Gorski, Lisa A., Miles, A. , Sterlin, Valentina, Curry, Nicole, Faiman, Beth M , Miles, Ashley, Curry, Nicole

Drug Delivery | July 29, 2025 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 1 | Pages: No page available

10.1080/10717544.2025.2537818 | PMID 40726334 Get It

Evaluating nurse preferences for a novel on-body delivery system vs. manual syringes for large-volume subcutaneous drug administration: a survey study
Desai, Mehul , Gorski, Lisa A., Miles, A. , Sterlin, Valentina, Curry, Nicole, Faiman, Beth M , Miles, Ashley, Curry, Nicole

Drug Delivery | April 4, 2025 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 1 | Pages: No page available

10.1080/10717544.2025.2484278 | PMID 40177924 Get It

Satisfaction and Experiences with Talquetamab: Results from Qualitative Patient and Physician Research
Rodriguez, Cesar , Brittle, Christine , Hydren, Jay R., Bórquez, Karla Mariana Castro, Gambill, Maria, Ahlstrom, Jennifer M., Le, Hoa H. , Patel, Saurabh N., Gray, Kathleen, Zhang, Xinke , Faiman, Beth M , Giri, Smith , Aldana, Ana M. Sahagun Sanchez, Fonseca, Rafaël

Blood | December 6, 2024 | Volume: 144 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 3786-3786

10.1182/blood-2024-207403 Get It

Introduction Talquetamab (Tal) is a bispecific antibody therapy approved for patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (MM), targeting both GPRC5D x CD3 receptors. Clinical studies demonstrate that Tal creates deep and durable responses, but less is known about the patient experience. This study aimed to explore the experiences of patients from the patient and physician perspectives to help understand what to expect with this first-in-class novel therapy. Methods This qualitative study consisted of two components. First, patients with documented use of Tal were identified and recruited through the HealthTree Cure Hub. Individual patients then took part in 2-hour, semi-structured virtual interviews. Patients were asked to discuss their experiences 1-2 months prior to starting Tal and 4-5 months after beginning therapy. Patients discussed GPRC5D-related symptoms (including oral, skin-related, and nail-related symptoms), overall impact, and satisfaction. Participants were US adults diagnosed with MM who took Tal for at least 4 months, either in a clinical trial or commercial setting. Interviews were conducted February-April 2024. Second, patients and physicians gathered in a facilitated roundtable discussion to review findings and generate ideas for symptom management. The roundtable lasted 2.5 hours and took place in Chicago, IL in May 2024. Results Eight men and 4 women (n=12) aged 52-79 years participated in the interviews. Interviewed participants were mostly white (84%) and college-educated (84%). Seven (58%) received Tal in a clinical trial, and 9 were still receiving Tal. Roundtable participants included 3 patients (2 male, 1 female; all white and college educated), and 3 physicians with Tal experience. In the interviews, patients reported high overall satisfaction, with most (75%) rating their satisfaction an 8 or higher on a 10-point scale. Satisfaction was largely driven by the effectiveness of therapy, with all reporting clinical improvements in their MM disease. Patients reported improvements in their energy/strength and decreased fatigue. They also reported increased physical activities and ability to work, volunteer, or engage in hobbies. Physicians affirmed these findings as consistent with their observations and noted they are also very satisfied with Tal. Oral symptoms such as distorted taste/loss of taste and dry mouth were common with varying severity. Although all interviewees (n=12) reported taste symptoms (typically starting within the first month of therapy), five said their symptoms fully improved (3 after 1 year on treatment, and 2 after stopping treatment), and 4 experienced partial recovery. Ten lost weight, but most (92%) maintained adequate nutrition. Patients and physicians suggested coping strategies including diet modifications, use of strong flavors (e.g., spices, cinnamon), monitoring weight, prioritizing adequate calories, using mouthwashes/lozenges, drinking water while eating, taking small bites, and consuming foods that are easier to swallow. They also noted that it is important to educate patients on expected symptoms before starting the treatment. Skin- and nail-related symptoms were also common but less impactful on quality of life. All patients (n=12) experienced skin- and nail-related symptoms, but most considered these symptoms mild. Skin-related symptoms such as dry skin and skin exfoliation occurred once and typically lasted 1-2 months. Nail symptoms were primarily cosmetic, and the duration varied. Suggested management strategies include skin moisturizers, nail thickeners/hardeners, keeping nails short, and wearing protective gloves. Physicians noted it's helpful to reassure patients that nail loss is not harmful. Overall, GPRC5D-related symptoms were not treatment-limiting, and no patients had to miss a dose due to these symptoms. Patients perceived these symptoms as bearable but noted the treatment was effective at controlling the disease. Conclusions This study described patient experiences and reflected how patients perceive the benefit/risk profile of talquetamab. Symptoms were perceived as bearable and high satisfaction scores were driven by strong clinical effectiveness. Patients and physicians agreed that real-world feedback from patients, practical tips, and management strategies are vitally important for patients and physicians using this novel therapy.
A Prospective, Randomized, Chemoprevention Trial of Celecoxib for High Risk Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance and Asymptomatic Multiple Myeloma
Horwitz, Leonard, Elson, Paul, Hussein, Mohamad A., Lust, John A., Mehta, Paulette, Habecker, Becky, Reed, Janice, Karam, Mary Ann, Dean, Robert M. , Sobecks, Ronald , Kaushal, Varsha, Kalaycio, Matt, Horwitz, Leonard J., Faiman, Beth M , Baz, Rachid , Reu, Frederic J. , Hsi, Eric D.

Blood | October 9, 2019 | Volume: 120 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 5045-5045

10.1182/blood.v120.21.5045.5045 Get It

Abstract Abstract 5045 Observation remains the standard approach to patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and asymptomatic multiple myeloma (AMM) who lack end-organ impairment characteristic of symptomatic MM. Institution of early MM therapy has not been shown to improve survival or alter the natural progression of the disease. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) inhibitors inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis in drug resistant MM cell lines. 23 asymptomatic adult patients with a serum monoclonal protein >1g/dL, from Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, or University of Arkansas Medical Center between August 2005 and April 2008 were randomized to either celecoxib or placebo in a double-blind, 1:1 fashion. The primary end point was change in the monoclonal protein concentration after 6 months. Correlative biomarkers, including IL6 and IL-6R, CD4/CD8+ T-cell ratios, and beta-2 microglobulin, were examined before and after treatment. Celecoxib had no significant effect on the median monoclonal protein concentration, which went from a median of 1. 44 to 1. 65 g/dL with placebo and 2. 42 to 2. 24 g/dL with Celecoxib (p=0. 36), or on any of the analyzed correlative markers (all p-values >0. 34). One patient's monoclonal protein concentration increased on placebo, but he did not require treatment for symptomatic MM. There were no adverse events of Grade 2 or higher. Celecoxib was well tolerated in contrast to previous reports when given in higher doses and in combination with thalidomide. Although accrual was limited we conclude that celecoxib has no clinical or immunologic effect on high risk asymptomatic plasma cell disorders. This study does not support using celecoxib for preventing progression to symptomatic MM. Future studies on progression of MGUS to symptomatic MM would require more patients and a longer follow-up period. Disclosures: Off Label Use: Celecoxib for chemoprophylaxis. Hussein:Celgene: Employment. Reu:Celgene: Research Funding.
PB2155 ONLINE CME SIGNIFICANTLY IMPACTS MULTIPLE MYELOMA CLINICIANS: EXPERIENCE FROM A MULTI‐YEAR CURRICULUM WITH 33,699 LEARNERS
Willis, Lauren , TANZOLA, MELINDA, Lucero, Katie , Cason, C L, Harvey, Rachel , Stewart, A. Keith, Vij, Ravi , Faiman, Beth M , Harvey, R. D., Lonial, Sagar , Landgren, Ola

HemaSphere | June 17, 2019 | Volume: 3 | Issue: S1 | Pages: 968-969

10.1097/01.hs9.0000567104.86214.98 Get It

Background:The treatment paradigm for multiple myeloma (MM) has evolved rapidly following new drug approvals and combinations. These improvements have the potential to improve outcomes for patients, but only if specialists in hematology/oncology (hem/oncs) have up‐to‐date knowledge on selection of treatments, prevention and management of adverse events (AEs), and comfort with emerging clinical trial data.Aims:We sought to determine if a curriculum of online continuing medical education (CME) activities could improve hem/onc knowledge and competence in treating patients with MM.MethodsThis analysis included hem/onc data from a MM curriculum spanning over 4 years, with 54 activities. For each year of the curriculum, an expert panel identified knowledge/competence gaps to be addressed through CME. Within the analysis, assessment questions were grouped into learning topics and the average for pre and post‐education was calculated for 2016‐2018 of the curriculum for each topic. The analysis elucidated the impact of the curriculum on narrowing gaps in knowledge/competence using a pre/post design. Statistical significance was assessed using a chi‐square statistic (P < .05 level).Results:As of December 2018, the curriculum had reached 33,699 US hem/onc learners and 2144 participated in the outcomes assessment. Treatment Selection: The curriculum significantly improved hem/onc knowledge/competence over time for selecting treatment for patients with relapsed/refractory (R/R) MM (pre/post: 2016, 41%/51%, P < .001; 2018, 48%/64%, P < .001). Managing AEs: The curriculum led to sustained knowledge gains for hem/oncs over time related to managing treatment‐related AEs in patients with MM (pre/post: 2016, 39%/53%, P < .001; 2018, 80%/84%, P = .427). Knowledge of Clinical Trial Data: Activities within the curriculum also significantly improved hem/onc knowledge of clinical trial data for consolidation and maintenance therapy (pre/post: 2016, 63%/76%, P < .001; 2017, 68%/74%, P < .05; 2018, 62%/76%, P < .001). Potential Patient Impact: The reach of Medscape Oncology CME has a large impact on how US hem/oncs treat patients with MM. Of all hem/onc specialists with MM diagnostic encounters, 64% are members of Medscape. Additionally, 70% of all high decile (deciles 7‐10) hem/onc specialists with MM diagnostic encounters are members of Medscape. Based on the number of learners for the curriculum and the average number of patient encounters, this education has the potential to impact 33,894 MM patient encounters.[IQVIA Data]Summary/Conclusion:This analysis shows that online CME, as part of a sustained educational curriculum, using various formats (video, text, panel discussion, case‐based) can significantly improve the knowledge and competence of hem/oncs in multiple areas related to MM. Statistically significant gains in knowledge and competence selecting treatment for R/R MM were seen even with the introduction of new clinical evidence in this area. The analysis also shows the potential impact on patients and the large reach that is achievable with online education. As new therapies and combinations of treatments continue to change practice, additional education is needed to aid hem/oncs in staying abreast of new data, managing AEs, and tailoring therapy selection for individual patients with MM.