Citations 210

Management Of PICC-Associated Thrombosis In Patients Receiving Chemotherapy For Hematologic Malignancies

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 122 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 5000-5000

10.1182/blood.v122.21.5000.5000

Abstract Background Tunneled central venous catheters have traditionally been used for administration of chemotherapy (chemo) for acute leukemia treatment. Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) are increasingly being used, but there is an increased risk of PICC-associated thrombosis (PAT). There is limited information on management of PAT in this subgroup of patients (pt). Methods In this retrospective cohort study we investigated the primary management of PICC related upper extremity venous thrombosis (TB) in pt with hematologic malignancy undergoing chemo at Mayo Clinic Rochester. Eligible pt were 18 years and older, had documentation of PICC placement at our institution, initiation of chemo within a week of PICC placement, and the TB was objectively documented by compression venous ultrasound (CVU). Superficial venous TB (SVT) was defined as TB of subcutaneous veins (basilic and cephalic) and deep venous TB (DVT) defined as TB of brachial, axillary, subclavian, or innominate superior vena cava and internal jugular veins. We retrospectively stratified initial management (IM) into 1) PICC removal alone (PR), 2) PR and therapeutic anticoagulation (AC), 3) AC alone, and 4) conservative management (CM) consisting of symptomatic care and observation. We also investigated factors influencing IM of PAT. Long term outcomes including incidence of pulmonary embolism (PE), post phlebitic syndrome and recurrence of TB were noted. Results Between 2006 and 2012, 190 pt with AML (n=160), MDS or MDS/MF (n=10), or ALL (n=20) met our study criteria. Overall, 40/190 (21.6%) developed PAT: AML n=38, ALL n=1, MDS/MF n=1. SVT occurred in 16/40 (40%) pt and DVT occurred in 24/40 (60%) pt. IM is shown in Table 1. One pt with SVT received AC for 6 weeks as well as PR. In this pt, IM included AC because of proximity of TB to deep veins. 7 pt had a follow up (f/u) CVU within 3 months demonstrating: TB progression (prog, n=1, IM with PR alone but with prog AC was started); TB stability (stab, n=2, both IM with PR alone) and TB resolution/improvement (R/I, n= 4, 2 IM with PR and 2 IM with CM) In the 5 pt with CM, 2 pt had f/u CVU demonstrating improvement, one pt had charted clinical improvement , and 2 pt had no charted clinical f/u. Of DVT pt on AC (n=14), 5 pt completed at least 2 months of AC. Reasons for early cessation (n=9) of AC included thrombocytopenia (tcp, n=4), hematoma (n=1), hematuria (n=1), subarachnoid hemorrhage (n=1), and unknown (n=1). One pt died 2 days after presence of DVT was noted. Two pt initially treated with PR alone developed a second TB with placement of a new PICC on contralateral arm and AC was subsequently initiated (duration: 3 months (n=1), and 8 days (n=1)). 14 pt with DVT had f/u CVU within 3 months which demonstrated prog (n=2), stab (n= 8), or R/I ( n=4) of TB (Table 2). The 2 pt with TB prog subsequently received longer term AC guided by platelet count. In 5 pt with PICC not initially removed, 3 pt had PR after completion of chemo. (1-4 days), one pt had PR at discharge (27 days from TB), and one pt had PICC in place on discharge. One pt with DVT experienced a PE within one year f/u. This pt had initially completed 3 days of AC which was stopped because of tcp. Conclusion In this cohort of patients with PAT, the most common IM consisted of PR, which appeared to result in a low recurrence rate among pt with SVT. In pt with DVT, the role of AC remains to be defined given the abbreviated course of AC in most pt. Though, the lack of CVU followup in all pt limits conclusions, there appeared to be a low rate of symptomatic prog. Initiation of AC was largely guided by platelet count and degree of occlusive symptoms. Thrombocytopenia was also the most commonly cited reason for discontinuing AC. Close clinical follow up aided by the use of CVU was integral to ensure that PAT did not lead to further adverse events. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Telomerase Inhibitor Imetelstat Therapy in Refractory Anemia with Ring Sideroblasts with or without Thrombocytosis

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 55-55

10.1182/blood.v126.23.55.55

Abstract Background Imetelstat is a 13-mer lipid-conjugated oligonucleotide that targets the RNA template of human telomerase reverse transcriptase. A pilot study of imetelstat therapy in myelofibrosis showed the induction of complete (CR) or partial remissions, as well as molecular remissions, in a subset of patients (Blood. 2014;124:634). In the particular study, CR was significantly higher in patients with SF3B1 or U2AF1 spliceosome mutations, which provided the rationale for the current study; spliceosome mutations are closely associated with refractory anemia with ring sideroblasts with (RARS-T) or without (RARS) thrombocytosis (Leukemia. 2013;27:1826). Methods Diagnosis of RARS and RARS-T was according to WHO criteria (Blood. 2009;114:937). Study patients were treated with a 2-hour intravenous infusion of 7.5 mg/kg imetelstat (Janssen Biotech Inc., Horsham, PA, USA) every 4 weeks. Drug activity was monitored by both formal response criteria (Blood. 2006;108:419) and effect on spleen size, thrombocytosis and leukocytosis. Adverse events (AEs) were monitored by Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (Version 4.03). Laboratory correlative studies included analysis of mutations. Results Accrual to this signal study is now complete and median time from study registration, as of 5/10/2015, was 17.1 months (range 16.1-20.1). Among the 9 study patients, 5 had RARS-T, 3 had RARS and one had "MDS/MPN overlap". Median age was 70 years (78% males). 8 (89%) patients were transfusion-dependent. One patient (RARS-T) had marked splenomegaly (palpable at 16 cm). Three patients each had leukocytosis and thrombocytosis. Seven (78%) patients had received prior treatments, including erythropoiesis stimulating agents in 6 (67%). Baseline international MDS prognostic scoring system scores were intermediate-1 (n=7) and intermediate-2 (n=2). Karyotype was normal in all but one patient with loss of Y chromosome. Drug activity Median duration of treatment with imetelstat was 13.7 months (range 6.6-17.9). Three (38%) patients achieved transfusion-independence (TI) during treatment, defined as not requiring transfusions for at least 8 weeks; 2 had RARS and one RARS-T. The median time to TI was 11 weeks (range 9-14) and the median TI duration was 28 weeks (range 9-37). One of the 3 "TI" patients also had resolution of leukocytosis and thrombocytosis. A 4th patient experienced >50% decrease in palpable spleen size as well as a decrease in transfusion need. In addition, imetelstat induced normalization of counts in two additional patients with thrombocytosis and leukocytosis. As of 5/10/2015, 4 (44%) patients remain on active treatment and one death had been recorded (deemed unrelated to imetelstat). The 5 treatment discontinuations were: death during active therapy, discovery of second malignancy, progression into acute leukemia and insufficient response (n=2). Safety Treatment-emergent grade 4 neutropenia and thrombocytopenia were seen in 2 (22%) and 1 (11%) patients, respectively; neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia were seen in 4 (44%), and 2 (22%) patients. Grade 3 anemia was seen in 6 (67%) of the patients, however baseline grade 2 anemia was noted in 2 (22%) and grade 3 in 3 (30%) patients. None of the grade ≥3 hematologic toxicities lasted ≥4 weeks.. The following grade 3 non-hematologic events occurred in 1 subject: aspiration, fatigue, and lipase increase and a patient with pre-existing cardiovascular disease history experienced a grade 5 heart failure. Treatment-emergent liver function test abnormalities affected: ALT (grade 1 56%/grade 2 11%), AST (grade 1 56%/grade 2 11%), ALP (grade 1 33%), and total bilirubin (grade 2 11%). For patients that discontinued treatment with imetelstat, these events were mostly reversible. Mutation studies Patients were screened for mutations involving JAK2, SF3B1, U2AF1 and SRSF2. Three patients were mutated for JAK2, 7 for SF3B1 (4 K700E, 2 H662Q, one K666N) and one for U2AF1 (Q157P). All three patients with "TI" (H662Q, K700E, K666N) and the 4th patient with spleen response (K700E) were SF3B1mutated. Post-treatment analysis showed no effect of imetelstat on mutations. Conclusions Treatment with imetelstat may offer clinical benefit in patients with RARS or RARS-T with generally acceptable safety profile and warrants further clinical investigation. Disclosures Al-Kali: Celgene: Research Funding. Wan:Janssen Research & Development: Employment, Equity Ownership.
Monosomal Karyotype Predicts Adverse Prognosis In Patients With Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 122 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 1334-1334

10.1182/blood.v122.21.1334.1334

Abstract Background Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) is a clonal hematologic disorder that was classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a myelodysplastic/ myeloproliferative overlap disease. Cytogenetic abnormalities have a significant prognostic role in many hematologic neoplasms, but their prognostic value in CMML has been debatable. Recently, monosomal karyotype (MK) has been reported to be a marker of poor prognosis in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and primary myelofibrosis, but its value in CMML is unknown. Aim To study MK effect on clinical outcome for patients diagnosed with CMML Method A retrospective study of all cases diagnosed with CMML at Mayo Clinic Rochester between 1994 to 2011 was performed. Only pts with complete cytogenetic analysis at presentation to our institution were included. MK was defined as the presence of ≥ 2 autosomal monosomies or one autosomal monosomy with at least one structural abnormality (Breems et al, JCO 2008). CK was defined as the presence of at least 3 chromosomal abnormalities. Appropriate IRB approval was obtained in accordance with Helsinki declaration. Comparison between groups’ medians was done using Wilcoxon test, while survival estimates were calculated using Kaplan-Meier curves using JMP V9. Results A total of 262 pts diagnosed with CMML had available cytogenetic data at diagnosis. Median age was 72 years, 176 (67%) were male. Median hemoglobin 10.5 g/dL, white blood cells (wbc) 12 x109/L, platelet 89 x109/L, peripheral blood (PB) blast 0, and bone marrow (BM) blast 4%. CMML2 was seen in 9% while 47% were proliferative (wbc >13). Leukemic transformation was documented in 34 pts (13%). Median overall survival was 513 days. Cytogenetic (CG) analysis was diploid in 167 pts (64%). Trisomy 8 was the most frequent cytogenetic abnormality at 8% (22), followed by complex karyotype (CK) 5% (14), then -7 at 4% (10) and MK 3% (7, six of which were also CK). Comparing pts with diploid CG to other categories indicates: to abnormal CG pts had lower wbc (0.001), PB blasts (p<0.0001), and BM blasts (p=0.0001); to CK pts had lower PB blasts (p=0.003) and higher platelets (p=0.03); to -7 pts had lower wbc (p=0.005), PB blast (p=0.0004), BM blasts (p=0.03) and higher platelets (p=0.03); to +8 pts had lower PB blast (p=0.02) and BM blasts (p= 0.01); no difference was noted when compared to MK. Median OS was statistically significantly worse in MK+ vs MK- (24 vs 527 days, p= 0.002), but not in other comparisons: -7 vs others (250 vs 527 days, p=0.2), CK+ vs CK- (256 vs 527 days, p=0.05), diploid vs others (570 vs 365 days, p=0.1), +8 vs others (312 vs 527 days, p=0.1). Pts with MK+ only or MK+CK+ did worse than CK+ only or other groups (4, 63, 304, 527 days, respectively, p<0.0001). On a multivariate analysis, MK+ (in addition to platelet, BM blast, hemoglobin, and wbc) did have an impact on OS (p=0.0004), while CK+, -7, +8, diploid CG, age, PB blast did not. Conclusion Cytogenetic abnormalities were not frequent findings in pts diagnosed with CMML (36%), but did affect wbc, PB and BM blasts. The most common cytogenetic abnormality was +8 while MK was present at 3% (less than published data in MDS). Only MK predicted statistically significant shorter mOS between all other cytogenetic categories on both univariate and multivariate analysis. This finding needs to be validated by larger cohorts of pts due to its rare occurrence in CMML. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Real-World “myelodysplastic Syndrome-unclassifiable” and Its Comparison With “refractory Cytopenia With Multi-Lineage dysplasia” and “refractory anemia”

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 122 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 1574-1574

10.1182/blood.v122.21.1574.1574

Abstract Background In routine myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) practice, physicians do not submit bone marrow (BM) slides for central review. Instead, they rely on available BM reports to assess prognosis and make therapeutic decisions. Such practice is likely to introduce inaccuracies, especially in the diagnosis of MDS-unclassifiable (MDS-U). The objectives of the current study were to describe the natural history of MDS-U that is diagnosed based on routine BM and peripheral blood (PB) smear reports and compare its prognosis to refractory anemia (RA) or refractory cytopenia with multi-lineage dysplasia (RCMD), which were diagnosed in the same manner. Methods Mayo Clinic databases were reviewed to identify consecutive patients who meet current WHO criteria for MDS-U, RA and RCMD (Swerdlow et al. WHO classification of Tumors, Lyon 2008). No central review was required and diagnosis was based on routine Mayo Clinic pathology reports. Included in the current WHO-defined MDS-U are patients with findings of i) refractory cytopenia with unlineage dysplasia (RCUD) or RCMD with 1% blasts in the PB, 2) MDS with unilineage dysplasia and pancytopenia and 3) persistent cytopenia with ≤1% PB blasts, <5% BM blasts, <10% BM myeloid cell dysplasia and cytogenetic abnormalities considered presumptive evidence of MDS. Patients who had exposure to chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy were excluded. Results A total of 382 patients met WHO diagnostic criteria for MDS-U (n=146; 38%), RA (n=26; 7%), and RCMD (n=210; 55%). Presenting clinical characteristics for patients belonging to each one of these three categories are listed and compared in table 1. There was no difference between the three subgroups in age or gender distribution. Similarly, with the exception of thrombocytopenia that was more prevalent in RCMD, complete blood count and transfusion need at diagnosis were not significantly different between the groups. Risk distribution using conventional prognostic models for survival did not reveal significant differences between MDS-U, RCMD and RA. At the time of this analysis, 265 deaths and 25 leukemic transformations were documented. Overall and leukemia-free survival was similar between the three groups (Figure 1). IPSS and IPSS-R karyotypes (Figure 2&3), however delineate patients into distinct category (P=0.001 and P= 0.01) Conclusions Distinguishing between MDS-U, RCMD and RA, in daily practice, has limited clinical relevance. It might be simpler and more practical to consider MDS without excess blasts under one common morphologic category and utilize instead cytogenetic and molecular information for further prognostic stratification and identify patient subgroups with specific therapeutic needs. Myelodysplastic syndrome-unclassifiable (MDS-U) (n=146) compared with refractory anemia (RA) (n=26) and refractory cytopenia with multilineage dysplasia (RCMD) (n=210) Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Imetelstat, a Telomerase Inhibitor, Therapy for Myelofibrosis: A Pilot Study

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 124 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 634-634

10.1182/blood.v124.21.634.634

Abstract Background: Current drugs in myelofibrosis (MF), including JAK inhibitors, do not induce complete or partial remissions. Imetelstat is a 13-mer lipid-conjugated oligonucleotide that targets the RNA template of human telomerase reverse transcriptase. A phase-2 study in essential thrombocythemia showed platelet-lowering activity of imetelstat accompanied by reduction in JAK2V617F allele burden, thus providing the main rationale for conducting the current study. Methods: The current study (NCT01731951) is investigator-driven and IRB approved. Drug and research funding were provided by Geron Corporation (Menlo Park, CA, USA). The objective was to obtain preliminary information on therapeutic activity and safety of imetelstat in DIPSS-plus high or intermediate-2 risk MF. Adverse events (AEs) were monitored by Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (Version 4.03) and responses by the International Working Group criteria (Blood2013). Laboratory correlative studies included measurement of plasma cytokines and analysis of mutations. Results : 33 patients were accrued and met eligibility criteria (median age 67 years; 67% males); type of MF was primary 55% and post-PV/ET 45%; risk distribution was high 48% and intermediate-2 52%. Karyotype was abnormal in 16 (48.5%) patients. 79% of patients had received prior therapy including JAK inhibitors in 33%. Protocol treatment : Imetelstat was administered by a 2-hour intravenous infusion (9.4 mg/kg) every three weeks (cohort A; n=19) or weekly x 3 followed by every three weeks (cohort B; n=16). As of 7/24/2014, 11 (33.3%) patients remain on active treatment (median number of cycles completed for all patients = 7; range 1-21). Three patients have died post-registration: intracranial hemorrhage (related), upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage (unrelated) and disease progression. Median follow-up for living patients was 11.0 months (range, 3.6 – 18.4). 22 (66%) patients have discontinued treatment, mainly because of suboptimal response (n=15) or disease progression (n=3). Toxicity : Treatment-related grade 4 neutropenia was seen in 6 (18%) patients and grade 4 thrombocytopenia in 7 (21%). Grade 3 anemia was seen in 9 (27%) patients. Two patients experienced grade 4+ non-hematologic AE: grade 5 intracranial hemorrhage (related), grade 5 upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage (not related); other grade 3+ non-hematologic AEs were seen in only one patient. Regardless of attribution, treatment-emergent grade 1 or 2 liver function test abnormalities affected bilirubin 46%, ALP 52%, AST 55% and ALT 24%. There were 3 instances of grade 3 ALP and one of bilirubin elevations. Efficacy : There were 7 (21.2%) complete (CR; n=4) or partial (PR; n=3) remissions, occurring at a median of 5 cycles of treatment (range 1-9). All 4 CR patients experienced reversal of BM fibrosis and 3 of them a complete molecular response. Six of the 7 CR/PR patients remain in remission (median 9.9 months, range 4.8-14.7). Other responses included anemia response in 4 (31%) of 13 transfusion-dependent patients, >50% reduction in palpable spleen size in 9 (39%) of 23 evaluable patients, ≥50% reduction in leukocyte count in 8 (80%) of 10 patients with marked leukocytosis (WBC >25 x 10(9)/L), resolution of leukoerythroblastosis in the majority of patients, and normalization of platelet count in 9 (75%) of 12 patients with thrombocytosis. Laboratory correlative studies : Mutational frequencies were 79% for JAK2, 18% for CALR, 3% for MPL, 33% for ASXL1, 9% for IDH1/2 and 33% for spliceosome component mutations. CR/PR rates were 27% in JAK2-mutated vs 0% unmutated (p=0.3) and 32% in ASXL1-unmutated vs 0% mutated (p=0.07). CR rate was 38% in SF3B1/U2AF1-mutated vs 4% unmutated (p=0.036). Grade 3+ neutropenia or thrombocytopenia was more likely to occur in JAK2-unmutated (p=0.02) and ASXL1-mutated cases (p=0.049). Multi-cytokine panel screening showed significant differences between baseline and post-treatment samples involving several cytokines, including IL-1b, IL-5, IL-7, IL-17, VEGF, IL-8 and TNF-α (p<0.001 for all). CR/PR did not correlate with baseline cytokine levels. Conclusions : The current study identifies imetelstat as an active drug in patients with MF, but also reveals its potential to cause significant myelosuppression. The association between CR/PR and specific mutations suggests potential targeted activity that might be exploited for patient and disease selection. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Lack of Prognostic Significance of Monosomal Karyotype and Absolute Lymphocyte Count At Diagnosis in Philadelphia Chromosome Negative Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 120 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 1476-1476

10.1182/blood.v120.21.1476.1476

Abstract Abstract 1476 Background: Monosomal Karyotype (MK) is defined as the presence of two or more autosomal monosomies or one autosomal monosomy and one structural abnormality. MK has been found to be an independent poor prognostic factor in myeloid diseases (Patnaik et al, Leukemia 2011, Haferlach et al, Blood 2012) even in the setting of allogeneic stem cell transplantation (Fang et al, Blood 2011). The prognostic relevance of MK in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) is unknown. Absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) at diagnosis, on the other hand, has been shown to be prognostic in a variety of lymphoproliferative disorders (Porrata et al, Leukemia 2010). However, the prognosis of ALC at diagnosis in ALL is undetermined Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of the Mayo Clinic leukemia database (1998–2010). The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board. Outcomes analyzed included overall survival (OS), leukemia free survival (LFS) and relapse rate. Clinical characteristics, cytogenetics, therapy and outcomes of patients with Philadelphia negative ALL (Ph-negative ALL) were analyzed. Cytogenetics were classified as follows: standard risk [hyperdiploidy], intermediate risk [Normal, del(11q)-not MLL, del(6q), del(17p), del(9p), del(12p), del(13q), t(14q32), t(10;14), low hyperdiploidy, others], high risk [-7, del(7p), +8, MLL translocations, t(1;19), t(17;19), t(5;14)], and very high [t(4;11), t(8;14), complex (≥5 abnormalities), hypodiploidy, triploidy] (Pullarkat et, Blood 2008). Multivariate analysis was performed using Cox Regression Model. Results: Between 1998 and 2010, a total of 175 consecutive patients with ALL were identified. Of these, 112 (64%) had Ph-negative ALL. The median age was 39.5 (16–88) years and 74 were male (66%). The majority of cases were B-ALL (78 patients, 69%). At presentation, the median hemoglobin was 10 (4.1–18.5) g/dL, platelet count was 61 (3–523) ×10(9)/L, WBC was 7.2 (0.8–377) ×10(9)/L and ALC was 1.9 (0–69.0) ×10(9)/L. The ALC was > 1000 in 75 (71%) patients. Cytogenetics risk categories were as follows: standard risk in 5 (4.4%), intermediate risk in 70 (62.5%), high risk in 8 (7.1%) and very high risk in 29 (25.9%) patients. Twenty-two patients (20.9%) presented with extranodal disease (CNS disease in 13 patients, 11.6%). Six patients (5.4%) had prior exposure to chemotherapy. Treatment involved allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT) in 34 (30.4%) patients. The median OS for the whole cohort was 24 (0–206) months and LFS was 18 (0–193) months. Forty four patients (39.3%) relapsed after achieving initial remission with a median time to relapse of 15 (2–73) months In a univariate analysis, low platelet count at diagnosis, poor ECOG performance status (PS), and high or very high risk cytogenetics risk categories were associated with inferior OS. ALC at diagnosis did not impact OS or LFS. On a multivariate analysis, high/very high risk cytogenetics, low platelet counts and poor ECOG PS were independent predictors of inferior outcomes. Nineteen patients (16.9%) had a MK. Of these, 16 (84.2%) fell in the very high risk cytogenetics category regardless of MK status. Three patients (1.6%) presented with extramedullary disease and six (3.2%) underwent SCT. The median OS of these 19 patients was 15 (1–73) months. While MK was associated with inferior LFS and a trend towards worse OS, this was not significant on a multivariate model that included cytogenetic risk categories, thrombocytopenia and the ECOG PS. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that cytogenetics risk stratification, thrombocytopenia and ECOG performance status are independent prognostic factors in ALL. MK and ALC at diagnosis had no prognostic significance. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Revised Cytogenetic Risk Stratification in Primary Myelofibrosis: A Mayo Clinic Study of 903 Patients

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 124 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 631-631

10.1182/blood.v124.21.631.631

Abstract Background : Cytogenetic abnormalities in PMF have been broadly classified into “favorable” and “unfavorable” risk categories. The latter include +8, -7/7q-, i(17q), inv(3), -5/5q-, 12p-, 11q rearrangements and complex karyotype (Leukemia. 2011;25:82). In a more recent study, we had demonstrated an even worse prognosis for patients with monosomal karyotype (MK), inv(3) and i(17q) abnormalities (Blood. 2011;118:4595). In the current study, we revisited the topic using a larger database. Methods: PMF diagnosis was according to World Health Organization criteria (Blood. 2009;114:937). Cytogenetic analysis and reporting was done according to the International System for Human Cytogenetic Nomenclature (Cytogenetic and genome research. 2013. Prepublished on 2013/07/03 as DOI 10.1159/000353118). Assignment to “normal” karyotype required a minimum of 10 metaphases analyzed. A complex karyotype was defined as the presence of 3 or more distinct structural or numeric abnormalities. MK was defined as 2 or more distinct autosomal monosomies or single autosomal monosomy associated with at least one structural abnormality (JCO. 2008;26:4791). Results : A total of 903 patients (median age 65 years; range 19-92; 63% males) met the above stipulations for study eligibility. Dynamic International Prognostic Scoring System (DIPSS)-plus risk distribution (JCO. 2011;29:392) was high in 344 (38%) patients, intermediate-2 in 334 (37%), intermediate-1 in 128 (14%) and low in 97 (11%). 472 patients were annotated for JAK2/CALR/MPL mutations; 276 (58%) harbored JAK2, 117 (25%) CALR and 33 (7%) MPL mutations. Abnormal karyotype was documented in 437 (48%) patients and included sole abnormalities of 20q- (n=71; 16%), 13q- (n=57; 13%), +8 (n=25; 5%), -7/7q- (n=17; 4%) and +9 (n=16; 3%). 22 (5%) patients displayed MK and 31 (7%) complex karyotype without MK. At a median follow-up time of 3 years, 634 (70%) deaths and 65 blast transformations (BT; 7%) were recorded. A step-wise survival analysis, using “normal karyotype” and “MK/inv(3)/i(17q)” as comparators for “low” and “very high risk” categories, respectively, resulted in four distinct cytogenetic risk designations: very high (MK, inv(3), i(17q), -7/7q-, 11q or 12p abnormalities; n=67), high (complex without MK, two abnormalities not included in very high risk category, 5q-, +8, other autosomal trisomies except +9, and other sole abnormalities not included in other risk categories; n=164), intermediate (sole abnormalities of 20q-, 1q duplication or any other translocation, and -Y or other sex chromosome abnormality; n=133) and low (normal or sole abnormalities of 13q- or +9; n=539); the corresponding median survivals were 0.9, 2.6, 3.8 and 4.6 years, with respective HR (95% CI) of 4.4 (3.3-5.8), 2.0 (1.6-2.4) and 1.3 (1.03-1.6). Very high (HR 6.1, 95% CI 2.9-13.2) and high (HR 2.2, 95% CI 1.1-4.1) risk categories were also associated with higher risk of BT. There was no significant correlation between the revised cytogenetic risk stratification and JAK2/CALR/MPL mutational categories (p=0.22), but none of the triple-negative or MPL-mutated patients displayed “very high risk” karyotype. The revised cytogenetic model was also effective in risk-stratification of JAK2 or CALR mutated patients, when analyzed separately, and its prognostic relevance for survival was generally independent of JAK2/CALR/MPL mutational status (p<0.01), DIPSS (p<0.01) or DIPSS-plus (p<0.01). Comparison of the currently used “favorable” vs “unfavorable” with the revised cytogenetic risk model showed a significant number of patients with “favorable” karyotype (n=213 of total 753) being re-assigned to high (n=82) or intermediate (n=131) risk categories. Conclusions : The currently used cytogenetic risk stratification in PMF is too broad and underestimates prognosis in a significant number of patients with “favorable” karyotype. We have developed a revised four-tier risk model that is independent of conventional risk models and JAK2/CALR/MPL mutational status and is expected to facilitate the development of genetics-based prognostic scoring systems in PMF. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Characteristics and Outcome of Direct Antiglobulin Test-Negative Hemolytic Anemia: A Case Series

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 128 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 2451-2451

10.1182/blood.v128.22.2451.2451

Abstract BACKGROUND: Non-hereditary hemolytic anemia of unknown etiology after an exhaustive work-up is commonly known as direct antiglobulin test (DAT)-negative hemolytic anemia. Due to its rarity, limited data are available regarding this condition. We performed this retrospective study to determine the frequency, associated medical conditions, treatments used, and clinical outcome of patients with DAT- negative hemolytic anemia. METHODS: We included adult (age >18 years) patients with DAT-negative hemolytic anemia seen at Mayo Clinic from 1997-2015 who met all of the following criteria: a) hemoglobin (Hb)< 12 g/dL; b) presence of hemolysis (reticulocytosis, elevated lactate dehydrogenase, decreased haptoglobin, and/or elevated indirect bilirubin); c) DAT-negative; and d) unknown etiology of hemolytic anemia after extensive work-up appropriate for clinical context. Remission status after appropriate therapy for perceived hemolysis was defined as follows: a) complete remission (CR; Hb ≥12g/dL and normalization of at least one previously abnormal hemolytic marker); b) partial remission (PR; Hb: 10-11.9 g/dL with evidence of ongoing hemolysis); c) no remission (NR; neither CR nor PR). In order to calculate the relative frequency of DAT-negative hemolytic anemia, we also determined the number of DAT-positive hemolytic anemia cases during the same time period using the above criteria for hemolytic anemia. RESULTS: During the 19-year study period, 24 and 484 patients were diagnosed with DAT- negative and DAT-positive hemolytic anemia, respectively, a ratio of 1:20. Among those with DAT-negative hemolytic anemia, the majority were males (67%) and the median age at diagnosis was 70 years (range, 22-87). Six patients (25%) had pre-existing autoimmune conditions including immune thrombocytopenia (n=3), Crohn's disease (n=2), and Grave's disease (n=1). All patients had negative DAT by conventional method with one patient turning positive at 104 days after initial diagnosis. Enhanced DAT technique using 4°C low-ionic strength saline wash was performed in one case and was negative. In general, peripheral blood smear showed polychromasia, occasional spherocytes, and no schistocytes or bite cells. Additional work-ups performed based on clinical context and proportion of patients tested (all results negative or normal) were as follows: hemoglobin electrophoresis (54%), flow cytometry for paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (92%), glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase level (67%), osmotic fragility test/eosin-5'-maleimide stain for hereditary spherocytosis (54%), other red blood cell enzymes (46%), computed tomographic scan of the body to look for occult malignancy (46%), and bone marrow biopsy (50%). The median hemoglobin at diagnosis was 8.5 g/dL (range, 4.5-11.8). Fourteen patients (58.3%) required blood transfusion during the course of their disease. Sixteen patients (67%) received prednisone as initial therapy with 19% CR and 38% PR response rates. Subsequent therapies included: rituximab (n=6; 40% PR), cyclophosphamide (n=2; 100% NR), mycophenolate mofetil (n=1; 100% NR), intravenous immunoglobulin (n=2; 100% NR), and splenectomy (n=6; 50% CR and 33.3% PR), respectively. The median follow-up for all cases was 32.9 months (range, 2-433). Six patients (25%) developed hematologic malignancies after a median follow-up of 8.7 months (range, 0.7-29.3), which included primary myelofibrosis (n=2), myelodysplastic syndrome (n=1), mantle cell lymphoma (n=1), non-Hodgkin lymphoma-not otherwise specified (n=1), and T-cell large granular lymphocyte leukemia (n=1). At last follow-up, 9 patients (38%) were in CR and 8 (33%) in PR. Relapses occurred in 67% and 0% of patients who received prednisone and splenectomy, respectively. CONCLUSION: At our institution, DAT-negative hemolytic anemia was approximately 20 times less common than DAT-positive hemolytic anemia. Most patients were treated with either immunosuppressive agents with or without splenectomy. Splenectomy was the most effective treatment. At least a quarter of the patients were eventually diagnosed with hematologic malignancies mostly within a year of DAT-negative hemolytic anemia diagnosis. Routine upfront evaluation for hematologic malignancies might be necessary for these patients. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Prognostic Relevance of Monocytopenia and Lymphocyte-to-Monocyte Ratio in Primary Myelodysplastic Syndromes

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 128 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 1996-1996

10.1182/blood.v128.22.1996.1996

Abstract Background We have previously shown an independent adverse prognostic effect of lymphopenia (absolute lymphocyte count <1.2 x 10(9)/L) for survival in MDS (Jacobs et al. Am J Hematol 2010;85:160) whereas others have suggested a similar value from lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR); patients with LMR ≥5 experienced shorter survival with median 67 vs. 126 months (Mushtaq et al. JCO May 20 Supp. 2016:7062). Whether or not "monocytopenia" also carries a prognostic value in MDS is currently unknown and was the main objective for the current study, which also addresses the prognostic value of LMR. Methods We retrospectively recruited 889 consecutive patients with primary MDS who were untreated at the time of referral to our institution and in whom absolute monocyte count (AMC) and absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) at time of referral were documented. The diagnosis of MDS and leukemic transformation (LT) was made according to WHO criteria (Blood. 2009;114:937). Complete follow-up information was updated in January 2015. For the purposes of the current study, monocytopenia was defined as AMC below the lower limit of the institutional normal range, which was 0.3 to 0.9 x 10(9)/L. Comparisons of survival and other clinical parameters were performed between i) patients with and without monocytopenia and ii) patients with and without LMR ≥5. Conventional methods were used for statistical analysis. Results Patient characteristics: Median (range) values for the 889 study patients (69% males) included: age 72 (18-98), hemoglobin 9.6 g/dL (5.4-15.7), leukocyte count 3.4 x 10(9)/L (0.4-35), platelet count 106 x 10(9)/L (2-1804), circulating blasts 0% (0-18), bone marrow blasts 3% (0-19) and absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) 1.2 x 10(9)/L (.02-8.9). Transfusion need was documented in 33% of patients and abnormal cytogenetics in 49%. Risk stratification by the revised international prognostic scoring system (IPSS-R) was very high in 11%, high in 16%, intermediate in 21%, low in 36% and very low in 16%. The median (range) AMC for the entire study population of 889 patients was 0.22 x 10(9)/L (0.0-1.8).The number of patients with subnormal AMC was 539 (61%). After a median follow-up of 27 months, 712 (80%) deaths and 116 (13%) leukemic transformations were documented. Comparison of patients stratified by absolute monocyte count and LMR Compared to patients with AMC >0.3 x 10(9)/L, MDS patients with monocytopenia displayed younger age (p<0.0001), lower hemoglobin (p=0.005), higher red blood cell transfusion need (p=0.03), lower leukocyte count (p<0.0001), lower platelet count (p<0.0001), lower absolute neutrophil count (p<0.0001), higher circulating (p=0.03) and bone marrow (p<0.0001) blasts, higher incidence of abnormal karyotype (p=0.03), and higher risk distribution in terms of both IPSS-R (p<0.0001) and cytogenetic risk stratification by IPSS-R (p=0.03). In univariate analysis, lower AMC was associated with inferior survival (p=0.002); significance was even more apparent when comparing patients with and without monocytopenia (p=0.0003; HR 1.3, 95% CI 1.1-1.5). Similarly, there was significant association between LMR and survival (p<0.0001) with patients with LMR ≥5 experiencing inferior survival (p=0.03; HR 1.2; 95% CI 1.02-1.4). In multivariable analysis, the adverse effect of monocytopenia was shown to be independent of age (p<0.0001), gender (p=0.0001), anemia (Hemoglobin <10 g/dL; p=0.002), thrombocytopenia (platelets <100 x 10(9)/L; p=0.01), neutropenia (absolute neutrophil count <0.8 x 10 (9)/L; p=0.005), subnormal ALC (p=0.0008), circulating blast percentage (p=0.002), cytogenetic risk stratification by IPSS-R (p=0.006) and LMR (p=0.02) or LMR ≥5 (p=0.002); however, significance was lost when risk stratification by IPSS-R was added to the multivariable analysis (p=0.7). In regards to LMR, it retained its significance (p=0.009) during multivariable analysis that included monocytopenia or subnormal ALC, as covariates; however, significance was lost in the context of IPSS-R (p=0.24 for LMR and 0.8 for LMR ≥5) Conclusions Monocytopenia in MDS clusters with adverse disease features and both monocytopenia and higher LMR were associated with poor survival. Despite the display of prognostic independence from each other and other risk factors considered individually, the survival impact of neither monocytopenia nor LMR was found to be independent of IPSS-R. Disclosures Al-Kali: Novartis: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding.
Retrospective Comparison Of Survival and Leukemic Transformation In Myelofibrosis Patients Treated With Ruxolitinib Versus Momelotinib Versus Fedratinib Versus Pomalidomide

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 122 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 4049-4049

10.1182/blood.v122.21.4049.4049

Abstract Background The impact of JAK inhibitor (JAKi) therapy on the natural history of myelofibrosis remains unclear. While a Phase 3 study showed that overall survival of ruxolitinib-treated intermediate-2 or high-risk myelofibrosis patients was superior as compared to placebo-treated patients, it remains unclear whether such an advantage would persist in patients receiving standard therapy, and whether this result is generalizable to other JAK inhibitors. We conducted a sponsor-independent, single-center retrospective analysis of overall and leukemia-free survival after long-term follow up in patients receiving JAKi treatment with comparison to two control populations: (i) a contemporaneously diagnosed (2005 onwards) primary myelofibrosis (PMF) patient cohort receiving standard therapy (JAKi and pomalidomide naïve); and (ii) a pomalidomide treated patient cohort (JAKi-naïve). Methods Baseline clinical, cytogenetic and molecular data were collected at the onset of study treatment with the first JAKi or pomalidomide, or at the time of first referral for patients receiving standard therapy. Information regarding bone marrow karyotype and DIPSS-plus risk status was available for all patients. Information on survival and leukemic transformation was updated in July 2013. Results The 3 patient groups were: (i) JAKi-treated: n=157, median age 65 years, range 34-89. DIPSS-plus risk: Low/Int-1 20 (13%), Int-2 66 (42%), and High 71 (45%). Median follow up from first JAKi treatment was 30 months (range 1-67 months); during this period, 72 deaths (46%) and 14 (9%) leukemic transformations were documented. The first JAKi was ruxolitinib in 51 patients (33%), momelotinib (CYT387) in 79 (50%), and fedratinib (SAR302503) in 27 (17%). The proportion of patient deaths and leukemic transformation (median follow up, range) per specific JAKi was: ruxolitinib 57% and 12% (40 months, 2-67), momelotinib 43% and 9% (29 months, 1-42), and fedratinib 33% and 4% (21 months, 2-53), respectively. (ii) Control#1 (Pomalidomide-treated): n=69, median age 67 years, range 36-87. DIPSS-plus risk: Low/Int-1 0 (0%), Int-2 28 (41%), and High 41 (59%). Median follow up was 25 months (range 2-70 months); during this period, 47 deaths (68%) and 7 (10%) leukemic transformations were documented. (iii) Control# 2 (Standard therapy): n=319, median age 66 years, range 22-90. DIPSS-plus risk: Low/Int-1 98 (31%), Int-2 122 (38%), and High 99 (31%). Median follow up from time of referral was 18 months (range 1-92 months); during this period, 101 deaths (32%) and 18 (6%) leukemic transformations were documented. For patients with Int-2 or high-risk disease (n=221), 92 deaths (42%) and 13 (6%) leukemic transformations were recorded (median follow up 16 months, range 1-92). The survival analysis focused on DIPSS-plus Int-2 and high-risk patients for all groups, reflecting the population predominantly selected for treatment on JAKi clinical trials. There was no significant difference in the median overall survival of myelofibrosis patients treated with JAKi (39 months) versus standard therapy (35 months) versus pomalidomide (26 months) (p=0.12) (Figure). The 5-year survival rates were 31%, 33% and 26%, respectively. Similarly, the median overall survival of patients treated with ruxolitinib (35 months), momelotinib (37 months) or fedratinib (42 months) was not significantly different (p=0.4). Baseline DIPSS-plus status (ie, Int-2 vs. high-risk) effectively stratified JAKi treated patients in terms of overall survival (median survival 31 vs. 60 months; p=0.0002). There was no significant difference in leukemia-free survival when comparing JAKi-treated patients versus standard therapy verus pomalidomide-treated patients (p=0.6) (Figure). The estimated 5-year risk of leukemic transformation was 17%, 12% and 13%, respectively. Conclusions With long-term follow up, myelofibrosis patients receiving JAKi therapy exhibited similar overall and leukemia-free survival as compared to two control populations (DIPSS-plus matched standard therapy and pomalidomide-treated patients). Baseline DIPSS-plus status was a powerful predictor of overall survival in JAKi treated patients. While underscoring the limitation of a non-head-to-head retrospective comparison, there was no significant difference in overall or leukemia-free survival when comparing individual JAKi drugs. Disclosures: Pardanani: Bristol Myers Squibb: Clinical trial support Other; Sanofi: Clinical trial support, Publication support services, Clinical trial support, Publication support services Other; PharmaMar: Clinical trial support, Clinical trial support Other; JW Pharmaceutical Corp.: Clinical trial support, Clinical trial support Other. Off Label Use: Use of Ruxolitinib, Momelotinib, Fedratinib and Pomalidomide for treatment of Myelofibrosis in Clinical Trial setting.