Citations 540

Optimal Therapy for Relapsed AL Amyloidosis Post Autologous Stem Cell Transplant

Blood | November 14, 2019 | Volume: 134 | Issue: Supplement_1 | Pages: 3171-3171

10.1182/blood-2019-125453

Introduction: There is a paucity of randomized trials to guide therapy for relapsed AL amyloidosis with treatment regimens generally extrapolated from experience in multiple myeloma. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of patients who relapsed after receiving autologous stem cell transplant at Mayo Clinic. Patients treated for first relapse between January 2004 and December 2018 were included. Results: Three hundred and twenty-one patients were seen for relapsed AL amyloidosis post ASCT during the study period. Baseline characteristics were typical for a cohort with AL amyloidosis and are listed in Table1. 39% received therapy prior to transplant, conditioning in the majority (75%) was melphalan 200mg/m2. The median progression free survival from transplant (PFS1) was 30.7 months. Of the 321 patients 294 received treatment for relapsed disease. We categorized treatment regimens according to commonly used combinations and drug classes to further analyze outcomes. 34 patients were excluded from this analysis as they either proceeded directly to second ASCT (n=10) or received an atypical regimen not commonly considered for AL amyloidosis (n=24). Five categories of therapy regimens were identified, thalidomide based (n=110), melphalan plus steroids (n=31), 2nd generation immunomodulatory (IMiD) drug +/- alkylator (n=76), proteasome inhibitor (PI) +/- alkylator (n=116), PI plus IMiD (n=16), or daratumumab based (n=9). Disease and treatment characteristics for patients treated with these regimens are listed in Table 2. Patients treated with thalidomide had the shortest PFS1 (17.7 months) but PFS1 was similar for those treated with melphalan plus steroids, PI+IMiD and 2nd generation IMiDs (25.5, 24.3 and 25.6 months respectively). Patients treated with a PI +/- alkylator and daratumumab based regimen had the longest PFS1 (36.7 and 41.9 months respectively). The median duration of therapy was longer in patients treated with a 2nd generation IMiD or daratumumab based regimen (10.2, 12, 6.1, 5.5, 6.2 and 5.9 months for Dara based, 2nd generation IMiD, PI+/- alkylator, PI+IMiD, melphalan plus steroids and thalidomide based respectively). Hematologic response rate was lowest in those treated with melphalan plus steroids or thalidomide based regimens (44% and 55% respectively) and highest for patients treated with a PI+/- alkylator, (Figure 1). Progression free survival from relapsed therapy (PFS2) was longest amongst patients treated with daratumumab based regimens, PI +/- alkylator and 2nd generation IMiDs (not reached, 29.9 and 26.7 months respectively), Figure 2A. Overall survival from time of relapsed therapy favored patients treated with daratumumab based regimens, 2nd generation IMiDs and PI +/- alkylator, Figure 2b). Conclusion: A second generation IMiD based regimen or PI +/- alkylator produce high response rates and prolonged progression free and overall survival for relapsed AL amyloidosis. Patients treated with daratumumab based regimens and those treated with a PI plus IMiD also appear to do well, although numbers were low in our study. Patients treated with melphalan plus steroids or thalidomide based combinations have inferior outcomes and these regimens should be avoided. Disclosures Dispenzieri: Celgene: Research Funding; Takeda: Research Funding; Pfizer: Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy; Intellia: Consultancy; Akcea: Consultancy; Alnylam: Research Funding. Lacy:Celgene: Research Funding. Dingli:Karyopharm: Research Funding; Rigel: Consultancy; Millenium: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; alexion: Consultancy. Leung:Takeda: Research Funding; Prothena: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Aduro: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Omeros: Research Funding. Kapoor:Glaxo Smith Kline: Research Funding; Sanofi: Consultancy, Research Funding; Celgene: Honoraria; Cellectar: Consultancy; Amgen: Research Funding; Takeda: Honoraria, Research Funding; Janssen: Research Funding. Kumar:Takeda: Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Research Funding. Gertz:Medscape: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Prothena Biosciences Inc: Consultancy; Ionis/Akcea: Consultancy; Alnylam: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Spectrum: Consultancy, Research Funding; Appellis: Consultancy; Amgen: Consultancy; Physicians Education Resource: Consultancy; Abbvie: Other: personal fees for Data Safety Monitoring board; Research to Practice: Consultancy; Teva: Speakers Bureau; Johnson and Johnson: Speakers Bureau; DAVA oncology: Speakers Bureau; Pharmacyclics: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Proclara: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; i3Health: Other: Development of educational programs and materials; Springer Publishing: Patents & Royalties; Amyloidosis Foundation: Research Funding; International Waldenstrom Foundation: Research Funding; Annexon: Consultancy. OffLabel Disclosure: Daratumumab off label use for AL amyloidosis.
Delayed Neutrophil Engraftment in Patients Receiving Daratumumab As Part of Their First Induction Regimen for Multiple Myeloma

Blood | November 14, 2019 | Volume: 134 | Issue: Supplement_1 | Pages: 4505-4505

10.1182/blood-2019-131380

Introduction: Daratumumab is a human immunoglobulin (IgG-κ) that targets CD38 abundantly expressed on plasma cells. Data is emerging to show its efficacy as part of induction therapy for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM) patients. Hematopoietic stem cells have been shown to express CD38 on the cell surface and therefore during mobilization, there is a theoretical risk of circulating daratumumab binding to and having downstream effects on these cells. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of MM patients treated with daratumumab prior to stem cell collection and autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) to identify any effects daratumumab therapy may have on the efficacy of the stem cells in bone marrow recovery. The study was conducted at Mayo Clinic Rochester from February 2018 to May 2019. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor was the preferred agent used for stem cell mobilization and plerixafor was added in a demand-adapted fashion. All patients received melphalan infused at day -1 before their ASCT and the decision about dosing (200mg/m2 vs 140mg/m2) was at the physicians' discretion. Neutrophil engraftment was defined as the first date of three consecutive neutrophil counts >0.5 x 10^9/L and platelet engraftment was defined as the first date of three consecutive platelet counts >50 x 10^9/L in the absence of platelet transfusion in the preceding 7 days. Results: We identified 12 patients who received daratumumab as part of their first induction regimen (daratumumab cohort) and compared them to 129 patients who did not receive daratumumab prior to stem cell mobilization and transplant during the study period (no daratumumab cohort). Of the daratumumab cohort, 11 patients received daratumumab, ixazomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone and one received daratumumab, cyclophosphamide, bortezomib and dexamethasone. No differences were noted in terms of melphalan dose or the number of CD34+ stem cell infused. The median time from the last dose of daratumumab to stem cell collection was 3.9 weeks. In patients receiving daratumumab, the median time for neutrophil engraftment was three days longer compared with those who did not receive daratumumab (median of 19 days vs. 16 days, P=0.017) (Figure 1, A). Median platelet engraftment was delayed by one day, although this was not statistically significant (median of 18 days vs. 17 days, p=0.12) (Figure 1, B). A total of 6 patients (50%) from the daratumumab cohort and 52 (40%) from the no daratumumab cohort required hospital admission. Of these admissions, there was no difference between the two groups in rates of admission for fever (50% in the daratumumab group vs. 42% in the no daratumumab group, P=0.7). Conclusion: Our case series provides the first report of daratumumab delaying engraftment post transplant in myeloma patients receiving it prior to stem cell collection. A better characterization of this phenomenon is important given the increasing use of daratumumab as front line therapy prior to ASCT in patients with myeloma. Disclosures Gertz: Prothena: Honoraria; Celgene: Honoraria; Janssen: Honoraria; Spectrum: Honoraria, Research Funding; Alnylam: Honoraria; Ionis: Honoraria. Lacy:Celgene: Research Funding. Kapoor:Sanofi: Consultancy, Research Funding; Glaxo Smith Kline: Research Funding; Cellectar: Consultancy; Janssen: Research Funding; Amgen: Research Funding; Takeda: Honoraria, Research Funding; Celgene: Honoraria. Dispenzieri:Alnylam: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Takeda: Research Funding; Pfizer: Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy; Intellia: Consultancy; Akcea: Consultancy. Dingli:alexion: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Millenium: Consultancy; Rigel: Consultancy; Karyopharm: Research Funding. Kumar:Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Takeda: Research Funding.
Increased Mean Corpuscular Volume Is an Independent Predictor for Worse Overall Survival in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Light Chain Amyloidosis

Blood | November 14, 2019 | Volume: 134 | Issue: Supplement_1 | Pages: 5532-5532

10.1182/blood-2019-131171

Introduction: Risk stratification of patients with light chain (AL) amyloidosis at diagnosis is invaluable. Currently, the Mayo 2012 staging system is mainly used to risk-stratify patients. We evaluated the role of increased mean corpuscular volume (MCV) at diagnosis in predicting survival. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of patients with newly diagnosed AL amyloidosis seen at Mayo Clinic, Rochester between January 2006 through December 2015. The diagnosis of AL was confirmed with biopsy and the determination of organ involvement was according to consensus criteria. Staging was done according to the Mayo 2012 staging system and patients with stage III/IV were considered to have advanced stage disease. Patient and disease factors were compared for categorical and continuous variables using the χ2 and the Wilcoxon signed rank tests, respectively. Overall survival (OS) was defined as the time from diagnosis to death of any cause. Survival analysis was done using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: A total of 1064 patients were identified and were divided into two groups: those with an MCV ≥ 96 fl (Elevated MCV, n=180) and those with an MCV <96 fl (Low MCV, n=884). The median age at diagnosis for the whole cohort was 64, with an interquartile range (IQR) of 57-71. Overall, 222 (23%) had Mayo 2012 stage 1, 199 (21%) had stage 2, 239 (25%) had stage 3, and 290 (31%) had stage 4 disease. Patients with an elevated MCV were more likely to be more than 65 years old compared to patients with a low MCV (61% vs. 44%, p<0.0001). They were also likely to have an advanced Mayo 2012 stage (68% vs. 53%, P=0.0008). The median OS was significantly lower in patients with an elevated MCV compared to patients with a low MCV (median PFS 13 months vs. 41 month, respectively, P<0.0001)(Figure 1). On a univariable analysis, predictors of OS were advanced Mayo 2012 stage (RR 3.26, P<0.001) and MCV ≥ 96 (RR 1.6, P<0.0001). On the multivariable analysis, both variables remained predictors of OS [advanced Mayo 2012 stage (RR 3.19, P<0.001) and MCV ≥ 96 (RR 1.3, P=0.016)]. Conclusion: The median OS was shorter by 28 months in newly diagnosed AL amyloidosis patients with an MCV ≥ 96 compared to patients with an MCV<96. An elevated MCV was predictive of shorter survival, independent of the Mayo Stage. This variable is easily available, measured in all newly diagnosed patients, and provides valuable prognostic information for the treating physician. Disclosures Dispenzieri: Intellia: Consultancy; Takeda: Research Funding; Pfizer: Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy; Alnylam: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Akcea: Consultancy. Lacy:Celgene: Research Funding. Dingli:alexion: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Millenium: Consultancy; Rigel: Consultancy; Karyopharm: Research Funding. Leung:Takeda: Research Funding; Prothena: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Omeros: Research Funding; Aduro: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Kapoor:Sanofi: Consultancy, Research Funding; Celgene: Honoraria; Cellectar: Consultancy; Janssen: Research Funding; Amgen: Research Funding; Takeda: Honoraria, Research Funding; Glaxo Smith Kline: Research Funding. Gertz:i3Health: Other: Development of educational programs and materials; Alnylam: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy; Appellis: Consultancy; Teva: Speakers Bureau; Spectrum: Consultancy, Research Funding; Annexon: Consultancy; Springer Publishing: Patents & Royalties; Amyloidosis Foundation: Research Funding; Amgen: Consultancy; Medscape: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Physicians Education Resource: Consultancy; Abbvie: Other: personal fees for Data Safety Monitoring board; Research to Practice: Consultancy; Ionis/Akcea: Consultancy; Prothena Biosciences Inc: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; International Waldenstrom Foundation: Research Funding; Proclara: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Johnson and Johnson: Speakers Bureau; Pharmacyclics: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; DAVA oncology: Speakers Bureau. Kumar:Takeda: Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Research Funding.
Hypovitaminosis D Is Prevalent in Patients with Renal AL Amyloidosis and Associated with Non-t(11;14)

Blood | November 14, 2019 | Volume: 134 | Issue: Supplement_1 | Pages: 5523-5523

10.1182/blood-2019-127668

Introduction: Vitamin D deficiency is common, with 25-50% of the population having levels below the optimal range (<20 ng/mL). Aside from its role in maintaining serum calcium and skeletal homeostasis, vitamin D has been shown to play an important role in regulation of differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, metastatic potential and angiogenesis in a variety of malignancies. Low serum 25(OH)D levels have been associated with a worse prognosis in several malignancies, including colorectal and breast cancer, chronic lymphocytic leukemia and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Almost no data have been reported on vitamin D levels in light chain (AL) amyloidosis. We therefore measured vitamin D levels among AL patients and correlated levels at presentation to explore if vitamin D deficiency has any effect or association in this disease. Methods: Stored serum samples from 90 patients with newly diagnosed AL amyloidosis were obtained for vitamin D studies, which included 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D] and vitamin D binding protein (DBP). All vitamin D measurements were made by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Total 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D was assessed as the additive sum of the 25(OH)D2/25(OH)D3 and 1,25(OH)2D2/1,25(OH)2D3 components, respectively. Clinical data was extracted from the electronic medical records. All calculations were made using JMP software (SAS, Cary, NC). Results: All patients were seen between June 2004 and September 2013. Median age was 63 [IQR 57-70]. Heart, kidney, nerve, liver and gastrointestinal amyloidosis was seen in 80%, 60%, 19%, 17% and 13% of patients, respectively. The median dFLC and bone marrow plasma cells were 28 (IQR 12-84) mg/dL and 10% (IQR 5-20%), respectively. The median serum 25(OH)D level was 20 ng/mL (IQR 10-29; normal >20 ng/mL), while the median serum level of 1,25(OH)2D was 23 pg/mL (IQR 14-37; normal 16-64 pg/mL for men; 16-78 pg/mL for women). 25(OH)D levels <20 ng/mL were strongly associated with renal involvement (84% renal involvement vs 42% of renal involvement for levels ≥20 ng/dL, P<0.001; Table). No other association with organ involvement was seen. Among all patients, heavy proteinuria (>5 gr/24-h) was strongly associated with low 25(OH)D, (P<0.001, Table). A weaker association was seen between 25(OH)D levels and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (P=0.06). Seventy-eight percent of patients with 1,25(OH)2D levels below 20 pg/mL had renal involvement versus 48% in those with levels above 20 pg/mL (P=0.01). While heavy proteinuria was associated with 1,25(OH)2D (P=0.008), the association was stronger for eGFR, as no patient with an eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73 m2 had a 1,25(OH)2D level above 20 pg/mL (P<0.001). An association between vitamin D levels and low serum albumin was also seen, mainly in relation to 25(OH)D (Table). The median level of serum DBP was 58 μg/mL (IQR 36 - 120 μg/mL), significantly lower than the normal range (168-367 μg/mL). Low levels of 25(OH)D or 1,25(OH)2D were not associated with lower DBP levels. Surprisingly, patients with renal involvement had higher levels of DBP versus those without renal involvement (median 70.9 vs 48 μg/mL; P=0.03), although median levels were below normal in both groups. FISH data was available in 47 of patients (52%). Patients with 25(OH)D levels <20 ng/dL were less likely to harbor t(11;14) versus patients with 25(OH)D levels above this threshold (26% vs 64%, respectively; P=0.0095). A similar, but less significant association was seen between 1,25(OH)2D levels at a 20 pg/mL threshold and t(11;14) (35% vs 59%, P=0.09). Other associations between vitamin D and FISH abnormalities were not seen. Conclusions: Hypovitaminosis D is common among AL amyloidosis patients with renal involvement. In the general cohort, heavy proteinuria, reduced eGFR and low serum albumin were all associated with low circulating vitamin D levels. Although the majority of AL patients had low levels of DBP, urinary loss of DBP does not explain the low levels of vitamin D. Hypovitaminosis D is associated with non-t(11;14) disease, a finding which warrants further exploration. Disclosures Dispenzieri: Akcea: Consultancy; Intellia: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Pfizer: Research Funding; Takeda: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Alnylam: Research Funding. Lacy:Celgene: Research Funding. Dingli:Rigel: Consultancy; Karyopharm: Research Funding; Millenium: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; alexion: Consultancy. Kapoor:Cellectar: Consultancy; Celgene: Honoraria; Sanofi: Consultancy, Research Funding; Amgen: Research Funding; Takeda: Honoraria, Research Funding; Janssen: Research Funding; Glaxo Smith Kline: Research Funding. Leung:Omeros: Research Funding; Aduro: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Prothena: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Takeda: Research Funding. Russell:Imanis: Equity Ownership. Kumar:Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Takeda: Research Funding. Gertz:Ionis/Akcea: Consultancy; Alnylam: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy; Annexon: Consultancy; Prothena Biosciences Inc: Consultancy; Spectrum: Consultancy, Research Funding.
A Prospective Pilot Study of Ixazomib, Lenalidomide, and Dexamethasone for Patients with Newly Diagnosed or Relapsed/Refractory POEMS Syndrome

Blood | November 14, 2019 | Volume: 134 | Issue: Supplement_1 | Pages: 1846-1846

10.1182/blood-2019-127366

Background: POEMS syndrome is a rare paraneoplastic syndrome caused by an underlying plasma cell disorder. The combination of a proteasome inhibitor, an IMiD and corticosteroid is known to be highly effective among patients with myeloma. Methods: We conducted a pilot using a 28-day oral regimen of ixazomib (4 mg days 1, 8, 15), lenalidomide (25 mg days 1-21), and dexamethasone (20 mg days 1, 8, 15, 22). Aspirin and acyclovir were used for prophylaxis. Eligibility included a diagnosis of POEMS syndrome, a plasma VEGF 2x normal, a PS < 3. There were two groups [gp] (intended enrollment 15 per gp): Gp 1, 3 cycles for pts destined for high-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant; Gp 2, 13 cycles for patients (pts) who had relapsed or refractory disease. Primary endpoint was VEGF complete response (CR=normalization) after 3 cycles. Secondary endpoints included safety, hematologic response, and overall survival at 3 and 12 months. Other domains including PET response (50% reduction in sum of SUVmax from baseline), clinical responses including neurologic response were also studied. Neurologic assessments were done using the modified neurological impairment score (mNiS+7POEMS), the overall neuropathy limitation scale, and the polyneuropathy disability score. To date, 13 pts enrolled since 10/31/2016-4 to Gp 1 and 9 to Gp 2. 11 pts were analyzed (2 dropped out before receiving any therapy). Data were frozen as of 07/15/2019. Results: Median age was 55; 73% were male. Of the evaluable patients, three were newly diagnosed (Gp 1), and 8 had relapsed or refractory disease (Gp 2). 72% met primary endpoint of VEGF CR (Table). At 3 months, the following improvements were seen: VEGF, 10/11; hematologic, 1/3; PET 1/3; neurologic impairment score, 3/11. By 12-months according to the modified nerve impairment scale, 3/6 had achieved objective improvement and 2/6 stable disease. With a median follow-up of 16 months, 2 patients have died of progressive disease and another patient progressed on therapy (Gp 2) with an extravascular leak progression. 27% of patients had grade 3+hematologic AE; 81% had grade 3-4 non-hematologic AE. These included: rash, respiratory infection, diarrhea, and hypotension in 2 each; atrial fibrillation, edema, dyspnea, and thromboembolism in 1 each. 5 pts had non-objective worsening of their neuropathy. Conclusions: These preliminary results suggest that Ixa-Len-Dex is an effective and tolerable regimen for patients with POEMS syndrome. Longer follow-up will be important to determine durability of this approach and for neurologic assessment given the slow rate of remyelination. Figure Disclosures Dispenzieri: Akcea: Consultancy; Intellia: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Pfizer: Research Funding; Takeda: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Alnylam: Research Funding. Lacy:Celgene: Research Funding. Kapoor:Cellectar: Consultancy; Janssen: Research Funding; Glaxo Smith Kline: Research Funding; Takeda: Honoraria, Research Funding; Sanofi: Consultancy, Research Funding; Celgene: Honoraria; Amgen: Research Funding. Leung:Takeda: Research Funding; Prothena: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Aduro: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Omeros: Research Funding. Dingli:alexion: Consultancy; Karyopharm: Research Funding; Rigel: Consultancy; Millenium: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy. Kumar:Takeda: Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Research Funding. Gertz:Proclara: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Springer Publishing: Patents & Royalties; Research to Practice: Consultancy; Physicians Education Resource: Consultancy; Abbvie: Other: personal fees for Data Safety Monitoring board; Ionis/Akcea: Consultancy; Alnylam: Consultancy; Prothena Biosciences Inc: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Spectrum: Consultancy, Research Funding; Annexon: Consultancy; DAVA oncology: Speakers Bureau; Pharmacyclics: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; i3Health: Other: Development of educational programs and materials; Amyloidosis Foundation: Research Funding; International Waldenstrom Foundation: Research Funding; Teva: Speakers Bureau; Johnson and Johnson: Speakers Bureau; Appellis: Consultancy; Amgen: Consultancy; Medscape: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau. OffLabel Disclosure: No drugs approved for POEMS syndrome. Ixazomib, lenalidomide and dexamethasone
A Novel Approach to Risk Stratification in Multiple Myeloma Using ISS Stage and FISH

Blood | November 14, 2019 | Volume: 134 | Issue: Supplement_1 | Pages: 1800-1800

10.1182/blood-2019-130639

Background: A variety of risk factors have been described in multiple myeloma and current risk assessment incorporates ISS stage with specific FISH results and serum LDH (R-ISS). However, this model does not include all the current abnormalities described as prognostic for survival in multiple myeloma. Importantly, the impact of many of these high-risk abnormalities are not uniform. We examined if we can better integrate FISH results into a risk assessment tool to better predict the outcomes of newly diagnosed MM. Patients and methods: We studied a cohort of 1316 patients with FISH done within 6 months of diagnosis of MM, in whom results for commonly observed abnormalities were available. We specifically examined the individual impact of common translocations involving chromosome 14, MYC rearrangements, chromosome 1q gain (single or multiple duplication) and del13q/monosomy 13. A risk assessment system was developed, weighting each abnormality according to their Risk Ratio and integrating ISS stage and serum LDH into the final model construction. Overall survival was calculated from diagnosis, with those alive at last follow up being censored. Results: We first examined the impact of each of the above FISH abnormalities: 1) high risk translocations [t(4;14), t(14;16), or t(14,20)], 2) trisomies, 3) t(11;14), 4) MYCrearrangements, 5) del13q/monosomy 13, and 6) 1q gain . Each of the abnormalities, except for t(11;14), was prognostic for survival (Table 1 with the risk ratios). For 1q gain, the median OS was NR, 105 mos and 79 mos respectively for no abnormality, duplication of 1 copy and duplication of multiple copies, (p<0.001). On multivariate analysis, t(11;14) and trisomies were no longer prognostic for overall survival (Table 1). The cumulative impact of abnormalities demonstrated worsening survival in the presence of increasing numbers of abnormalities (Figure 1). Including ISS stage 3 and LDH > ULN as additional variables for prognostication indicated both were individually prognostic for OS. In a multivariate analysis, including these two and FISH abnormalities, 1q gain and LDH were not independently prognostic. The final model consisted of HR translocations, MYCrearrangements, del17p/monosomy 17, del13q/monosomy 13, and ISS stage 3. Each of these variables was weighted using their risk ratio and a composite score was developed using 998 patients for whom all variables were available (range: 0-7.9; median 1.8). Three patient groups were characterized: group 1 (0; 32%), group 2 (1-4; 58%) and group 3 (>4; 10%) with a median OS of 53 mos, 106 mos, and NR, respectively, p <0.001 (Figure 2). Conclusion: Using the most relevant FISH and laboratory factors, in a large cohort of patients, we refined the current system to develop a risk stratification system that predicts survival in patients with newly diagnosed MM treated with contemporary treatment regimens. This needs validation in future studies. Disclosures Kumar: Janssen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Takeda: Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding. Gertz:International Waldenstrom Foundation: Research Funding; Annexon: Consultancy; Medscape: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Amyloidosis Foundation: Research Funding; Abbvie: Other: personal fees for Data Safety Monitoring board; i3Health: Other: Development of educational programs and materials; Springer Publishing: Patents & Royalties; Physicians Education Resource: Consultancy; Pharmacyclics: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Proclara: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Ionis/Akcea: Consultancy; Alnylam: Consultancy; Prothena Biosciences Inc: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Spectrum: Consultancy, Research Funding; Appellis: Consultancy; Research to Practice: Consultancy; Teva: Speakers Bureau; Johnson and Johnson: Speakers Bureau; DAVA oncology: Speakers Bureau; Amgen: Consultancy. Dispenzieri:Akcea: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Intellia: Consultancy; Pfizer: Research Funding; Takeda: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Alnylam: Research Funding. Lacy:Celgene: Research Funding. Dingli:alexion: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Millenium: Consultancy; Rigel: Consultancy; Karyopharm: Research Funding. Kapoor:Celgene: Honoraria; Janssen: Research Funding; Sanofi: Consultancy, Research Funding; Glaxo Smith Kline: Research Funding; Takeda: Honoraria, Research Funding; Amgen: Research Funding; Cellectar: Consultancy. Leung:Prothena: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Takeda: Research Funding; Omeros: Research Funding; Aduro: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Bergsagel:Celgene: Consultancy; Ionis Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy; Janssen Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy.
Phase 2 Trial of Ixazomib, Cyclophosphamide and Dexamethasone in Relapsed Multiple Myeloma

Blood | November 14, 2019 | Volume: 134 | Issue: Supplement_1 | Pages: 1904-1904

10.1182/blood-2019-131478

Background: Combinations of alkylating agents with proteasome inhibitors have demonstrated efficacy in newly diagnosed and relapsed multiple myeloma (MM), with melphalan or cyclophosphamide combinations being some of the commonly used regimens for initial treatment of MM. Ixazomib (Ixa) is an oral proteasome inhibitor that is approved for use in combination with lenalidomide for patients with relapsed MM. We examined if Ixa can be effectively combined with cyclophosphamide (Ctx) in order to develop a less expensive, all oral regimen for patients with relapsed MM. Patients and Methods: Patients with relapsed MM, who were proteasome inhibitor naïve OR have received less than 6 cycles of therapy with bortezomib and had a better than PR with no progression at the time of discontinuation, were enrolled. The primary objective was to determine overall response rate (ORR). Treatment consisted of Ixa 4mg PO days 1, 8, 15; Ctx 300 mg/m2 PO days 1, 8, 15, 22 and dexamethasone (Dex) 40 mg PO weekly in a 28-day cycle. Overall, 37 patients were accrued; data on 33 eligible patients were available for analysis as of July 18, 2019. Results: The median age was 71 (48-89), 61% were male and the median duration from diagnosis was 46 months (mos). Median number of prior lines of therapy was 4 (range 1-5), 76%, 42% and 67% respectively had a prior IMiD, proteasome inhibitor or stem cell transplant, respectively. At data cutoff, 22 (67%) had progressed, 4 (12%) had died and the median follow up of those alive was 21.3 mos. Fourteen patients are still receiving treatment, with median of 8.5 cycles. Most common reason for treatment discontinuation was disease progression (10 pts; 53%). The ORR was 60% including 6% CR and 24% VGPR. The median event free survival was 11.3 mos (95%CI: 9.0 - 26.8). Overall, 401 cycles have been administered across the study, with dose modifications/ hold required for Ixa, Ctx, and Dex in 9 (27%), 14 (42%), and 22 (67%) patients respectively, the most common reason being hematologic toxicity. A grade 3 or higher adverse event at least possibly attributed to the study drugs was seen in 77% of patients, hematologic in 67% and non-hematologic in 30%. (Table 1) The most commonly observed hematologic toxicities included thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, lymphopenia and anemia; for non-hematologic was nausea, diarrhea, peripheral neuropathy toxicity and fatigue. Conclusions: The combination of Ixa, Ctx and Dex (ICd) offers a convenient, all oral regimen for treatment of relapsed disease not refractory to proteasome inhibitors. The regimen has good efficacy in this group f heavily pretreated patients, with an acceptable toxicity profile. Disclosures Lacy: Celgene: Research Funding. Gertz:Ionis: Honoraria; Spectrum: Honoraria, Research Funding; Janssen: Honoraria; Celgene: Honoraria; Prothena: Honoraria; Alnylam: Honoraria. Ailawadhi:Takeda: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Cellectar: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics: Research Funding; Amgen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy. Bergsagel:Janssen Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy; Ionis Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy. Fonseca:AbbVie, Amgen, Bayer, Celgene, Kite, Janssen, Juno, Merck, Pharmacylics, Sanofi, Takeda: Other: Consultant/Advisor; Prognosticatin of MM based on Genetic Categorization by FISH: Patents & Royalties; Adaptive Biotechnologies: Other: Scientific Advisory Board. Dingli:alexion: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Millenium: Consultancy; Rigel: Consultancy; Karyopharm: Research Funding. Kapoor:Amgen: Research Funding; Takeda: Honoraria, Research Funding; Glaxo Smith Kline: Research Funding; Sanofi: Consultancy, Research Funding; Celgene: Honoraria; Cellectar: Consultancy; Janssen: Research Funding. Chanan-Khan:AbbVie: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics: Research Funding; Xencor: Research Funding; Merck: Research Funding; Jansen: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic: Employment; Ascentage: Research Funding; Millennium: Research Funding. Larsen:Janssen Oncology: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Takeda: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Russell:Imanis: Equity Ownership. Stewart:Roche: Consultancy; Seattle Genetics: Consultancy; Takeda: Consultancy; Ionis: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Oncopeptides: Consultancy; Ono: Consultancy; Amgen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Bristol Myers-Squibb: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding. Kumar:Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Takeda: Research Funding.
Waldenström Macroglobulinemia with Excess Plasma Cells: Is It a Distinct Entity?

Blood | November 14, 2019 | Volume: 134 | Issue: Supplement_1 | Pages: 1532-1532

10.1182/blood-2019-131442

Introduction: Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) is characterized by circulating monoclonal IgM and bone marrow infiltration with lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (LPL) cells. Presently, there is limited data to guide prognosis or treatment options of WM based on the proportion of lymphocytes or plasma cells in the LPL population on the pathology. In this study, we aim to look at differing clinical features and outcomes of patients with WM based on the plasma cell (PC) percentage in the diagnostic bone marrow biopsy. Methods Patients with WM seen at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN between January 2001 and December 2017, with a bone marrow biopsy and a corresponding serum free light chain (FLC) examination at diagnosis of WM were included. The percentage of lymphocytes and PCs in the marrow biopsy was determined based on morphology ± immunohistochemistry. On immunohistochemistry, CD138 and/or MUM-1 positivity was used to quantify PCs, whereas CD20 and/or PAX5 were used to quantify lymphocytes. Patients with ≥10% PC component in the lymphoplasmacytic (LPL) cells on bone marrow biopsy were considered to have WM with excess plasma cells (WMEPC), while those with &lt;10% PCs were considered to have lymphocytic WM (LWM). Continuous variables were compared using Wilcoxon test and categorical variables were compared using Chi square test or Fisher's exact test. Time-to-next therapy (TTNT) was defined as the period from initiation of first line therapy to start of second line therapy or death due to any cause before second line therapy. Time-to-event analyses were conducted using Kaplan Meier method. Results: Of 228 evaluable patients, 147 (64%) had ≥ 10% PCs in the initial marrow biopsy. The median follow-up was 3.4 years (95% CI: 2.3-4.3 years) for LWM and 4.3 years (95% CI: 3.4-4.8 years) for WMEPC (p=0.33). The baseline characteristics of WMEPC versus LWM are depicted in Table 1. Patients with WMEPC had lower bone marrow involvement by LPL (30%) compared to LWM (60%; p&lt;0.001) at diagnosis, but the rate of symptomatic hyperviscosity was higher in WMEPC during the disease course (Table 1). The TTNT was shorter for WMEPC [2.6 years (95% CI: 1.8-4.5 years)] compared to LWM [4.5 years (95% CI 3.2-8.2)], although it did not reach statistical significance (p=0.09, Figure 1). There was a trend towards shorter OS for WMEPC [Not reached (95% CI 7.2- NR)] compared to LWM [10.7 years (95% CI 7.3 -12.1 years); p=0.28], Figure 2. Of the 228 patients, 79% (n=182) had data available for systemic therapy. The rate of PR or better with frontline therapy was higher in rates in LWM compared to WMEPC (61 % vs 42% p=0.02, Table 1). Among WMEPC cohort, patients receiving either a proteasome inhibitor (PI)-based or an immunomodulatory (IMiD)-based combination as frontline therapy (n=16) had higher rates of partial response or better (68%) compared to non-PI/non-IMiD based therapy (n=114), p=0.04. Conclusion: WM with excess plasma cells at diagnosis is associated with a trend towards shorter TTNT and OS compared to WM with &lt;10% plasma cells in the lymphoplasmacytic population at diagnosis. Our preliminary data shows higher rates of partial response or better with the use of PI/IMiD based therapy, but the small cohort size limits the strength of this finding which needs to be validated externally. Disclosures Ansell: Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Regeneron: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Trillium: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Trillium: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Affimed: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Trillium: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Trillium: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding. Gertz:Spectrum: Honoraria, Research Funding; Janssen: Honoraria; Celgene: Honoraria; Prothena: Honoraria; Alnylam: Honoraria; Ionis: Honoraria. Dingli:alexion: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Millenium: Consultancy; Rigel: Consultancy; Karyopharm: Research Funding. Nowakowski:Selvita: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; NanoString: Research Funding; MorphoSys: Consultancy, Research Funding; Genentech, Inc.: Research Funding; F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd: Research Funding; Curis: Research Funding; Bayer: Consultancy, Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding. Dispenzieri:Alnylam: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Takeda: Research Funding; Pfizer: Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy; Intellia: Consultancy; Akcea: Consultancy. Lacy:Celgene: Research Funding. Kumar:Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Takeda: Research Funding. Kapoor:Janssen: Research Funding; Cellectar: Consultancy; Glaxo Smith Kline: Research Funding; Amgen: Research Funding; Takeda: Honoraria, Research Funding; Sanofi: Consultancy, Research Funding; Celgene: Honoraria.
Long Non-Coding RNA Expression in Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia and IgM Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance

Blood | November 14, 2019 | Volume: 134 | Issue: Supplement_1 | Pages: 2774-2774

10.1182/blood-2019-128912

Introduction Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (WM) is a rare, incurable, indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma that is preceded by an IgM monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (IgM MGUS). In recent years, better understanding of the pathobiology of WM and IgM MGUS has strengthened the hypothesis that they may represent different stages of the same disease. Studying the relationship between these two conditions is the essential first step to understanding the mechanisms driving the malignant transformation from IgM MGUS to WM. Recently long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have garnered significant recognition for their roles in the regulation of gene expression and cellular function. lncRNA can regulate gene expression of neighboring protein-coding genes through multiple mechanisms such as by recruiting chromatin modifiers and increasing accessibility of genes to transcription proteins, or by directly binding to enhancers or promoters. Here we present the first analysis of the lncRNA expression profile in patients with WM compared to IgM MGUS. Methods Twenty-one patients with untreated WM (n=14) and IgM MGUS (n=7) seen at Mayo Clinic were included in this analysis. Malignant cells were isolated from bone marrow samples using CD19 and CD38 positive selection. Total RNA was extracted and sequencing was performed using the Illumina HiSeq4000 NGS platform. Differentially expressed lncRNAs in WM compared to IgM MGUS were defined as log2 fold change (FC) > 1.0 (upregulated) or < -1.0 (downregulated) and a false discovery rate (FDR) < 0.05. The nearest gene to each lncRNA was also identified and their gene expression was detected. Using the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis software and taking into account the transcriptional expression and known function of these genes, a correlation between cell function and disease analysis was performed. Results A total of 119 lncRNAs were differently expressed between WM and IgM MGUS (17 transcripts were upregulated in WM, while 102 were downregulated in WM). Sixteen unique genes were identified as the nearest gene to 17 upregulated lncRNAs, while 18 genes were identified as the nearest genes to the top 18 downregulated lncRNAs in WM compared to IgM MGUS. Several of the upregulated lncRNA in WM were in proximity to known oncogenes. The well-known oncogenic lncRNA PVT1 was found to be upregulated in WM compared to IgM MGUS (log2 FC 1.35, FRD 0.04). PVT1 is overexpressed in several malignancies and associated with inhibition of apoptosis and increased cell proliferation. PVT1 is in close proximity to MYC and co-expression of PVT1-MYC has been described in multiple cancers. PVT1 also potentiate MYC amplification by increasing MYC protein stability, therefore promoting malignant cell growth. The lncRNA TCB1D27, also upregulated in WM compared to IgM MGUS, is located in close proximity to the oncogene TNFRSF13B (TACI), which was found to be overexpressed in WM patients (log2 FC 1.61, FDR <0.001). TACI is a receptor for BLyS/BAFF, which modulates the development of normal B-cells and plays a role in various B-cell malignancies. In fact, BLyS/BAFF level is known to be increased in WM and to promote survival and proliferation of WM B cells. The upregulated lncRNA RP11-25K21.1 in WM is located in close proximity to the oncogene FCGR2B (CD32B), which was also upregulated in WM compared to IgM MGUS (log2 FC 1.59, FDR 0.001). Overexpression of CD32B was previously shown to be associated with inferior outcomes in DLBCL and FL patients, presumably secondary to an increased internalization and clearance of rituximab due to increased CD32B expression on malignant cells. Several other upregulated lncRNAs in WM compared to IgM MGUS are also in proximity of other oncogenes such as PCED1B, POLD3, CLLU1, and SMAD7. Finally, we considered the expression of the nearest genes and their reported cell function and association with diseases. Several genes that are known to have a role in the cell proliferation and/or neoplasm development were noted to be upregulated in WM (figure 1). Conclusion We present the first report of lncRNAs expression in WM and IgM MGUS in addition to a concurrent analysis of the gene expression of the nearest protein-coding genes. Several known oncogenes are in proximity of overexpressed lncRNAs in WM compared to IgM MGUS that could indicate potential implications in the pathobiology of these diseases and the mechanism driving the malignant transformation to WM. Disclosures Paludo: Celgene: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Verily Life Sciences: Research Funding; Verily Life Sciences: Research Funding. Dasari:The Binding Site: Patents & Royalties: US Patent Rights on Mass Spectroscopy Licensing agreement with The Binding Site, Research Funding. Kapoor:Celgene: Honoraria; Cellectar: Consultancy; Janssen: Research Funding; Sanofi: Consultancy, Research Funding; Amgen: Research Funding; Takeda: Honoraria, Research Funding; Glaxo Smith Kline: Research Funding. Ailawadhi:Amgen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Pharmacyclics: Research Funding; Takeda: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Cellectar: Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy. Gertz:Amyloidosis Foundation: Research Funding; i3Health: Other: Development of educational programs and materials; Medscape: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Ionis/Akcea: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy; Appellis: Consultancy; Amgen: Consultancy; Teva: Speakers Bureau; Alnylam: Consultancy; Prothena Biosciences Inc: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Spectrum: Consultancy, Research Funding; Annexon: Consultancy; Physicians Education Resource: Consultancy; Abbvie: Other: personal fees for Data Safety Monitoring board; Research to Practice: Consultancy; Johnson and Johnson: Speakers Bureau; DAVA oncology: Speakers Bureau; Pharmacyclics: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Proclara: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Springer Publishing: Patents & Royalties; International Waldenstrom Foundation: Research Funding. Novak:Celgene Coorperation: Research Funding. Ansell:Affimed: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Trillium: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Regeneron: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Regeneron: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding.
Peak Lymphocyte Count after CAR T Infusion Is a Clinically Accessible Test That Correlates with Clinical Response in Axicabtagene Ciloleucel Therapy for Lymphoma

Blood | November 14, 2019 | Volume: 134 | Issue: Supplement_1 | Pages: 4106-4106

10.1182/blood-2019-127094

Background: Two-year follow-up from ZUMA-1 trial for axicabtagene ciloleucel (axi-cel) CD19 chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CART) in aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) demonstrated that patients (pts) achieving complete remission (CR) as their best response have the longest progression free survival (PFS), while PFS remained poor for others. Majority of the best response are achieved by month 3 post-infusion. Moreover, a subset of pts who do not achieve CR by month 1 may still achieve CR while others will progress within months. Having a clinically available test to predict for durable response can assist clinicians in selecting pts who can be observed for continued response vs. those who may need intervention earlier. Peak CAR-T expansion has been correlated with best clinical response to axi-cel. However there is no clinically available test to quantify CART cells post treatment. Given the prolonged lymphotoxic effect of the lymphodepletion (LD) chemotherapy administered before CART infusion, we hypothesize that the peak expansion of absolute lymphocyte count (ALC, ALCpeak) after infusion likely corresponds to CART expansion. We examined for correlation between ALCpeak and clinical response at month 3 post-infusion for pts who received axi-cel. Methods: Data was collected from pts who received axi-cel between June 2016 and March 2019 at Mayo Clinic Rochester (NCT02348216, NCT03153462, and standard of care). All infused pts were included in the intention to treat analysis for response and event-free survival (EFS). Lugano 2014 criteria were used for clinical response. EFS was defined as the date of infusion until progression or death due to any cause and evaluated using Kaplan Meier curves with log-rank test. Comparison between subgroups was investigated using Fisher's exact test and Wilcoxon test for categorical and continuous variables, respectively. Statistical analysis performed using JMP Pro 14.1. Results: Of the thirty-six NHL pts treated with axi-cel, the median age was 56 yrs (range 26-65); 78% (28) were male; 44% (16) had DLBCL; the median number of prior therapies was 3 (2-6), 47% (17) had stem cell transplant. Nineteen (53%) pts received bridging therapy after leukapheresis. All pts received fludarabine and cyclophosphamide for LD chemotherapy and achieved ALC nadir by the day of CART infusion (median 0.03 x 10^9/L, range 0.01-0.11). As CART expansion were found to peak within the first two weeks in ZUMA-1 trial, we examined ALC trend over 15 days post infusion and found that ALCpeak generally happened within the same timeframe (median ALCpeak day: 9, range 6-15). At 3 months post infusion, 33.3% (12/36) of pts achieved CR, 8.3% (3/36) pts were in partial remission (PR). No correlation was found between CR response and clinical characteristics: age >60 years, stage III/IV, B symptoms, elevated LDH, IPI score 3-4, number of previous treatments, use of bridging therapy, peak CRP and ferritin. However, the ALCpeak was significantly different between CR and non-CR pts (median, range: 1.09, 0.35-2.55; 0.67, 0.15-1.03; p=0.04). Using receiver operator curve (ROC)-derived area under the curve (AUC) estimates, ALCpeak 1.08 x 10^9/L was identified as the best threshold to discriminate patients at different likelihood to achieve CR at month 3. Pts achieving ALCpeak ≥ 1.08 showed a strong increased likelihood of achieving CR at month 3 (OR 2.8; 95% CI, 1.12-6.99; P=0.02). There was no statistical difference between the ALCpeak high and low groups in terms of use of bridging therapy, occurrence of any grade or higher grade cytokine release syndrome or neurotoxicity, or the use of tocilizumab or steroid. Interestingly, for pts who had changes in clinical response from month 1 to month 3, all 3 pts who converted to CR by month 3 had ALCpeak≥1.08, while the 13 of the 15 pts who had progressed by month 3 had ALCpeak<1.08. In addition, EFS was significantly different between pts who had ALCpeak above and below 1.08 (6 months EFS rate 75% vs. 25%, respectively, Figure 1). Conclusions: We found that the ALC expansion occurred in the first 15 days post axi-cel infusion, consistent with the known time frame for CART expansion. Higher ALCpeak level in this timeframe correlated with higher likelihood of achieving CR, and is associated with conversion to CR. This study is limited by the small sample size and limited follow-up, but the results are promising for further prospective investigation in a larger cohort of patients. Disclosures Paludo: Verily Life Sciences: Research Funding; Verily Life Sciences: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding. Ansell:Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Trillium: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Trillium: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Trillium: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; Trillium: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Regeneron: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; LAM Therapeutics: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Mayo Clinic Rochester: Employment; Regeneron: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding. Bennani:Purdue Pharma: Other: Advisory board; Purdue Pharma: Other: Advisory board; Seattle Genetics: Other: Advisory board; Adicet Bio: Other: Advisory board; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Kite Pharma: Other: Advisory board; Kite Pharma: Other: Advisory board; Adicet Bio: Other: Advisory board; Seattle Genetics: Other: Advisory board; Adicet Bio: Other: Advisory board; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Kite Pharma: Other: Advisory board; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Other: Advisory board; Purdue Pharma: Other: Advisory board. Dingli:alexion: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Millenium: Consultancy; Karyopharm: Research Funding; Rigel: Consultancy. Kapoor:Celgene: Honoraria; Janssen: Research Funding; Cellectar: Consultancy; Sanofi: Consultancy, Research Funding; Amgen: Research Funding; Takeda: Honoraria, Research Funding; Glaxo Smith Kline: Research Funding. Kenderian:Novartis: Patents & Royalties, Research Funding; Tolero: Research Funding; Humanigen: Other: Scientific advisory board , Patents & Royalties, Research Funding; Lentigen: Research Funding; Morphosys: Research Funding; Kite/Gilead: Research Funding. Kumar:Takeda: Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding.