Citations 357

Impact on MPN Symptoms and Quality of Life of Front Line Pegylated Interferon Alpha-2a Vs. Hydroxyurea in High Risk Polycythemia Vera and Essential Thrombocythemia: Interim Analysis Results of Myeloproliferative Disorders Research Consortium (MPD-RC) 112 G

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 128 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 4271-4271

10.1182/blood.v128.22.4271.4271

Abstract Background: Patients (pts) with polycythemia vera (PV) and essential thrombocythemia (ET) suffer from disease related events linked to risk of vascular events, splenomegaly, progression to myelofibrosis/acute leukemia, and disease related symptoms arising from both elevated cytokines and issues of vascular flow. Impact of front line therapy on ET/PV symptoms has not been reported in a systematic fashion. Methods: MPD-RC 112 trial (NCT01258856) enrolled cytoreductive therapy naïve (hydroxyurea [HU] <3 mo) pts with high risk ET or PV within 3 years of diagnosis. Pts were randomized (1:1, stratified by ET vs PV) to either response adjusted pegylated interferon alpha 2a (PEG) or HU. MPN symptoms, treatment toxicities, and quality of life (QoL) were measured by the MPN-SAF and EORTC QLQ-C30 at baseline and 3, 6, 9, and 12 mo. PEG related toxicities were assessed with 5 questions on PEG arm only. European Leukemia Net (ELN) complete hematological responses (CHR) at 12 mo were determined by central blinded review. Individual time point and longitudinal group comparisons were based on mixed models adjusting for age. T-tests were used to compare change scores at 12 mo between pts with and without CHR. Results: Patients: MPD-RC 112 enrolled 168 pts from 9/2011 to 7/2016, with 75 pts included in the interim analysis. 73 (97%; HU 37, 95%; PEG 36, 100%) completed surveys at baseline of which 66 (90%; HU 30, 81%; PEG 36, 100%) completed at least 1 survey during treatment. Median age was 60 (range 19-84) with 32 (44%) females; 30 (41%) / 43 (59%) with ET / PV; 19 (26%) had a history of thrombosis; and 16 (22%) had palpable spleen. Baseline characteristics where balanced between arms with the exception of age (median age: HU 66, PEG 54; p<0.001). Baseline Symptom Burden/QoL: Mean MPN-SAF Total Symptom Score (TSS, scale 0 [absent]-100 [worst imaginable]) was 15.4 (SD 12.5; range 0-52.2) with means of 12.6 (SD 11.7) / 17.3 (SD 12.7) for ET / PV which were somewhat better than reported means of a previous cohort receiving any line of treatment (ET mean 18.7, SD 15.3; PV mean 21.8, SD 16.3; Emanuel RM, JCO 2012). Symptoms (scale 0 [absent]-10 [worst imaginable]) with the highest prevalence (score >0) included fatigue (65/73, 89%) and insomnia (47/73, 64%). The symptom with the lowest prevalence was fever (8/72, 11%). Mean QLQ-C30 global health status/QoL (GHS/QoL) was 73.3 (SD 19.1) which is comparable to a general healthy population (mean 71.2, SD 22.4) and better than a general cancer population (mean 61.3, SD 24.2; QLQ-C30 Reference Manual 2008). TSS, symptoms, and QoL did not differ between arms. Impact of Therapy on Symptom Burden/QoL: On HU, pts initially experienced worsening of TSS, fatigue, early satiety, itching, bone pain, and fever (all p<0.05) with some symptoms returning to baseline after 6 mo (Table 1). On PEG, pts experienced improved abdominal pain and discomfort, but worsening of headache, cough, injection site irritation, blurry vision, and vision change (all p<0.05). Sad mood did not worsen on PEG, although this may be confounded by concurrent use of mood stabilizers. Concentration problems on PEG were significantly worse at 9 mo (p=0.04). Both arms experienced worsened QoL (MPN-SAF single item: HU p=0.009, PEG p=0.003). In comparing between arms, TSS significantly differed (p=0.009) with higher symptoms on HU vs PEG at 3 and 6 mo, but lower symptoms at 9 and 12 mo (Figure 1). Similar descriptive profiles were observed for most individual symptoms; however, the only symptom profiles which significantly differed between arms was early satiety (p=0.03). ELN Response and Symptom Burden/QoL: Among 62 pts with symptom and response data at 12 mo, CHR rate was 37% (23/62). Change in sad mood and sexuality were the only significant differences between pts with and without CHR regardless of arm though in the unanticipated direction (sad mood: mean change 1.5 vs -0.8, p<0.001; sexuality: mean change 2.33 vs 0.3, p=0.03). Conclusions: PEG was associated with an initial decrease in MPN symptom burden when compared to HU. However, with longer duration of therapy, this superiority dissipated. Patient-reported PEG toxicities worsened over time. On both arms, symptom worsening was observed in pts achieving an ELN CHR, possibly leading to the observed negative impact on mood and sexuality. Future research on the impact of PEG on disease progression and molecular features will be important to assess whether increased side effects with PEG are justified. Disclosures Mesa: CTI: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Promedior: Research Funding; Gilead: Research Funding; Incyte: Research Funding; Galena: Consultancy; Ariad: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy. Harrison:Incyte Corporation: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Baxaltra: Consultancy, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Gilead: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Shire: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: travel, accommodations, expenses, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. McMullin:Novartis: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. Yacoub:Alexion: Honoraria; Seattle Genetics: Consultancy, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Incyte: Consultancy, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. Kiladjian:Novartis: Honoraria, Research Funding; AOP Orphan: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. Mead:Novartis: Honoraria, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Kessler:Pfizer: Consultancy; Octapharma: Consultancy, Research Funding; Novo Nordisk: Consultancy, Research Funding; Grifols: Consultancy; Genentech: Consultancy, Research Funding; Biogen: Consultancy; Bayer: Consultancy, Research Funding; Baxalta: Consultancy, Research Funding; LFB: Other: Member of DSMB. Ritchie:Pfizer: Honoraria; Novartis: Honoraria; Arian: Speakers Bureau; Celgene: Speakers Bureau; Incyte: Speakers Bureau. Schlenk:Pfizer: Honoraria, Research Funding; Amgen: Research Funding. Mascarenhas:Promedior: Research Funding; Janssen: Research Funding; CTI Biopharma: Research Funding; Novartis: Other: DSMB , Research Funding; Roche: Research Funding; Incyte: Other: Clinical Trial Steereing Committee, Research Funding.
Prospective Validation of the Italian Myeloproliferative Neoplasm Symptom Assessment Form (MPN-SAF: Italian) In 186 MPN Patients

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 116 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 5060-5060

10.1182/blood.v116.21.5060.5060

Abstract Abstract 5060 Background: The Myeloproliferative Neoplasm Symptom Assessment Form (MPN-SAF) is a concise instrument of patient reported outcomes (PRO) designed to assess the unique spectrum of symptoms present in the majority of patients (Mesa et. al. Cancer 2007). We sought to validate the Italian Translation of the MPN-SAF which addresses 19 separate symptoms reported by MPN patients. Methods: Translation: We utilized the standard practice of PRO translation in which 3 independent translations are created by 3 independent translators fluent in both languages. A fourth translator then discussed the translations with the other translators and a consensus translation was obtained. Validation: Patients self completed the MPN-SAF: Italian at the time of a physician office visit and the Italian EORTC-QLQ-C30 (a widely used instrument of PRO for cancer patients) was co-administered for validation purposes. Results: Patients and Symptomatic Burden: 186 patients were prospectively enrolled (ET (N=88; 47%), PV (N=69; 37%) and MF (N=29; 16%)) a median of 6 years (range:0-29) from their diagnosis. Patients were of a median age (62; range 29–91 years) and gender (56% females) typical of the disease. 72% (N=135) had received some form of non-aspirin medical therapy for their disease, and 68% were on therapy at the time of completing the questionnaire. Patients frequently had a history of either thrombotic events (31%) and/or hemorrhagic events (13%). The MPN-SAF measured 19 items in the enrolled patients (data summarized in Table 1). Validation Analysis: EORTC-QLQ-C30: Consistent with our experience with the MPN-SAF:English, Pearson correlations between MPN-SAF:Italian individual symptom scores and the Italian EORTC-QLQ C30 showed excellent correlations with co-validation questions including fatigue, pain, insomnia, (all p<0.001). Excellent correlations were demonstrated between EORTC-QLQ-C30 subscales and corresponding MPN-SAF measurements. Comparison with MPN-SAF:English: Comparison with 102 patients prospectively completing the MPN-SAF: English (ET=20, PV=23, MF=59) in the USA indicated very strong correlations (when controlling for MPN subtype) in the prevalence of all 19 items assessed and only subtle differences in terms of symptomatic severity for fatigue, itching and insomnia. Conclusions: The MPN-SAF:Italian is an easy to administer, clear, 19-item inventory of patient-reported outcomes that is specific to MPNs. Additionally, the instrument is validated by 1) comparison to previously validated Italian instruments and 2) the correlation with the MPN-SAF:English. Utilization of the instrument in Italian MPN clinical trials will allow for useful comparison to patients completing the MPN-SAF in other countries and will serve as a valuable clinical marker of disease symptom severity. Disclosures: Vannucchi: Novartis: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Mesa:SBio: Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Incyte: Research Funding; Roche: Research Funding; eisai: Research Funding; telik: Research Funding.
The Myeloproliferative Neoplasm Symptom Assessment Form (MPN-SAF): An International Prospective Validation Trial In 402 Patients

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 116 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 4095-4095

10.1182/blood.v116.21.4095.4095

Abstract Abstract 4095 Background: Symptomatic burden in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) is present in over 70% of MPN patients (Mesa et. al. Cancer 2007). We sought to validate a broadly applicable instrument (MPN-SAF) to assess symptoms in myelofibrosis (MF), essential thrombocythemia (ET) and polycythemia vera (PV). Methods: Using the previously validated MF-SAF as a base instrument, we added several key additional symptoms previously identified as present in all subtypes of MPNs including headaches, concentration, dizziness, extremity tingling, insomnia, sexual problems and mood changes on a 0 (absent) to 10 (worst-imaginable) scale. Validation: The MPN-SAF was administered jointly with the EORTC-QLQ-C30 as the co-validation instrument using prospective cohorts in the USA, Sweden and Italy. The translated MPN-SAF (Swedish and Italian) was created through a standard approach using teams of 4 translators working in concert. Results: Compiled MPN-SAF: Patient data: 402 MPN-SAF surveys were administered (English (25%), Italian (46%) and Swedish (28%)) in 161 ET patients (40%), 145 PV patients (36%), and 96 MF patients (24%), an average of 7.8 years (range 0 – 43 years) from their MPN diagnosis. Participants were of typical age (64.9, range 26 – 91 years) and gender (53% female) characteristic of disease. Prior hemorrhage (10%) and thrombosis (25%) were frequent. 68% of patients currently received cytoreductive therapy and 84% received cytoreductive therapy in the past. Patients and Symptomatic Burden: 19 items assessed in the MPN-SAF demonstrated consistently that the most common symptoms were fatigue (93%), decreased quality of life (84%), insomnia (65%), sad mood (65%), and sexuality problems (58%). The least common symptoms (<50% prevalence) were fevers (20%), weight loss (35%), abdominal pain (46%), cough (46%), headache (48%), and bone pain (49%). Symptoms were most severe in MF, followed by PV, then ET patients. Although symptoms are present in all 3 MPN subgroups, itching is notably more burdensome in PV patients (65%, median score of 2.8 out of 10). Additionally, abdominal pain, abdominal discomfort, early satiety and inactivity all are most prevalent and severe in MF. Interestingly, night sweats (present in 56%) overall had similar prevalence and severity across all 3 MPNs. The majority found the MPN-SAF easy to understand (98%) and “addressed most of my MPN symptoms” (96%). Comparison to EORTC-QLQ-C30: Strong correlations existed between individual items represented on both the MPN-SAF and the EORTC-QLQC30 including pain, fatigue, appetite and insomnia (all p<0.001). Additionally key symptomatic elements were highly correlated with the EORTC QLQ-C30 functional subscales. Comparison to Physician Perceptions: Comparison of the results of the MPN-SAF to enrolling physicians' blinded opinion of patients symptoms (6 assessed - night sweats, fevers, fatigue, weight loss, bone pain, and pruritus) showed excellent correlation with corresponding patients' responses except bone pain (all p<0.001). Comparison across Countries: When controlling for MPN subtype, responses between the three different countries (and 3 different languages the MPN-SAF was administered) demonstrated great consistency and correlation for all but 1 item, bone pain. Serial MPN-SAF Results: 51 patients in the USA (ET (17.6%), PV (25.5%), and MF (56.9%)), responded to a repeat MPN-SAF survey sent via US mail (50% response rate, mean time between surveys 190±63 days (range 43 – 257)). Pearson correlations indicate that most MPN-SAF items are well correlated (r >0.5, p<.001) upon repeat survey administration. Items characteristic of advanced disease, including weight loss, fever, and cough displayed lower Pearson correlations (r=0.46, -0.08, and 0.38 respectively). Intra-class correlations for test-retest reliability indicated that common features of disease, including mean BFI, inactivity, insomnia, and night sweats, were highly reproducible upon serial survey administration (ICC>0.7, 2, k model used). Conclusion: The MPN-SAF is comprehensive and reliable instrument which is available in multiple languages to evaluate MPN-associated symptoms. The MPN-SAF is recommended as a uniform symptom assessment tool for MPN patients participating in clinical trials globally. Disclosures: Vannucchi: Novartis: Consultancy. Samuelsson:Roche Sweden:. Harrison:Incyte: Honoraria; Novartis: Honoraria. Mesa:SBio: Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Incyte: Research Funding; Roche: Research Funding; eisai: Research Funding; telik: Research Funding.
Prospective Validation of the Swedish Myeloproliferative Neoplasm Symptom Assessment Form (MPN-SAF: Swedish) In 114 MPN Patients

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 116 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 5053-5053

10.1182/blood.v116.21.5053.5053

Abstract Abstract 5053 Background: The Myeloproliferative Neoplasm Symptom Assessment Form (MPN-SAF) is a concise instrument of patient reported outcomes (PRO) designed to assess the unique spectrum of symptoms present in the majority of patients (Mesa et. al. Cancer 2007). We sought to validate the Swedish Translation of the MPN-SAF which addresses 19 separate symptoms reported by MPN patients. Methods: We utilized the standard practice of PRO translation in which 3 independent translations are created by 3 independent translators fluent in both languages. A fourth translator then discussed the translations with the other translators and a consensus translation was obtained. Patients self completed the MPN-SAF: Swedish at the time of a physician office visit and the Swedish EORTC-QLQ-C30 was co-administered for validation purposes. Results: Patients and Symptomatic Burden: 114 patients were prospectively enrolled (ET (N=53; 47%), PV (N=53; 47%) and MF (N=8; 6%)) a median of 6 years (range:0-42) from their diagnosis. Patients were of a median age (68; range 27–88 years) and gender (53% females) typical of the disease. 78% (N=88) had received some form of non-aspirin medical therapy for their disease, and 75% were on therapy at the time of completing the questionnaire. Patients frequently had a history of either thrombotic events (26%) and/or hemorrhagic events (10%). The MPN-SAF measured 19 items in the enrolled patients (data summarized in Table 1). Validation Analysis: EORTC-QLQ-C30 Consistent with our experience with the MPN-SAF:English Pearson correlations between MPN-SAF-Swedish individual symptom scores and the Swedish EORTC-QLQ C30 showed excellent correlations with co-validation questions including fatigue, pain, headache, insomnia, early satiety, and sad mood (all p<0.001). Correlations with EORTC-QLQ-C30 subscales demonstrated excellent correlations between MPN-SAF measurements and corresponding subscales. Comparison with Mpn-Saf:English: Comparison with 102 patients prospectively completing the MPN-SAF: English (ET=20, PV=N=23, MF=59) showed (when adjusting for MPN subtype) excellent correlation with all but 3 items in which the prevalence of the symptoms was similar but the severity less in the Swedish cohort (early satiety, headache and impaired quality of life). Additionally, the ranking of the prevalence of symptoms was very well correlated between both cohorts when controlling for disease type. Conclusions: The MPN-SAF: Swedish is an easy to administer, clear, 19 item inventory of patient reported outcomes that is specific to MPNs. Additionally, the instrument is validated by 1) comparison to previously validated Swedish Instruments and 2) the correlation with the MPN-SAF:English. Utilization of the instrument in Swedish MPN clinical trials will allow for useful comparison to patients completing the MPN-SAF in other countries. Disclosures: Samuelsson: Roche Sweden: Mesa: SBio: Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Incyte: Research Funding; Roche: Research Funding; eisai: Research Funding; telik: Research Funding.
Final Analysis of a Multicenter Pilot Phase 2 Study of Ruxolitinib and Danazol in Patients with Myelofibrosis

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 1618-1618

10.1182/blood.v126.23.1618.1618

Abstract Introduction: Most myelofibrosis (MF) patients develop anemia during evolution of the disease process predicting decreased survival. Previous studies exploring the effect of danazol for the treatment of anemia in MF demonstrate responses in anemia. In prior randomized-controlled studies, ruxolitinib demonstrated improvements in splenomegaly, symptom burden, and even survival yet improvements in cytopenias were uncommon. We designed a phase II multicenter pilot study to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of combination therapy with ruxolitinib and danazol in MF patients with anemia. Methods: This was a Simon optimum two-stage phase II trial. Eligible subjects received ruxolitinib, a JAK 1/JAK2 inhibitor, at 10mg (plat >75 x10x9) BID or 5mg (plat <75 x10 x9) BID) representing initial dose reduction for JAK inhibitor naïve patients to minimize cytopenias, in combination with tapered danazol up to 200mg orally TID. Dose escalation was allowed after completion of 28 days for lack of response or for disease progression. Pts without progression continued for 6 cycles at 56 days each. Treatment modifications were allowed for either medication based on emergent adverse events (AE). Treatment responses were evaluated every cycle by IWG-MRT criteria (Blood 2006). Patient reported outcome questionnaires (MPN-SAF, EORTC QLQ-C30) were administered at baseline, prior to treatment cycles, and at study discontinuation. Results: Patients: Fourteen pts enrolled (9 Mayo Arizona, 5 Mount Sinai). Median (Med) age 70.5 (range 43-78), M:F ratio 1.8:1. Ten primary MF, 2 post-essential thrombocythemia MF, and 2 post-polycythemia vera MF. JAK2 V617F positive in 42.9%. DIPSS Low in 1 pt, Int-1 in 1pt, Int-2 in 8 pts, High in 2 pts, and unknown in 2pts. Transfusion dependence in 35.7% at baseline. Med baseline hemoglobin (hgb) was 9.0 g/dL (R: 8.3 - 12.4), platelet (plt)157 x109/L (R:143 - 520). Thirteen pts received prior therapy, with 9 pts (64.2%) on a JAK inhibitor within 3 months of study entry. Tolerability: Nine pts (64.2%) ended active treatment, due to progression of disease in 2 pts (22.2%), adverse event (AE) in 2, pt preference in 2, stem cell transplant in 1, unrelated death in 1, and comorbidity in 1. Med duration of therapy: 91 days (range 24-287). AEs regardless of attrition included: hematologic grade 3 or >: anemia in 7 pts (50%), neutropenia in 2 (14.3%), leukopenia in 1 (7.1%), and thrombocytopenia in 2 (14.3%). Non-hematologic grade 3 or >: electrolyte abnormalities in 3 pts (21.4%), infection in 2 (14.3%), edema in 1(7.1%), hypertension in 1 (7.1%), and intracranial hemorrhage in 1 (7.1%). Efficacy: Of the 5 JAK inhibitor naïve pts, 4 had stable or increasing hgb levels with therapy despite new ruxolitinib therapy. Of the 9 pts on prior JAK inhibitor (5 ruxolitinib, 4 other), 5 (55.5%) and 7 (77.7%) patients had stable or increasing hgb or plt levels, respectively. See Table #1. Four pts (28.6%) had at least 50% improvement from baseline on MPN-SAF TSS (95% CI 8.4%-58.1%). Overall treatment response: (IWG-MRT) stable disease (SD) in 10 pts (71.4%), clinical improvement (CI) in 3 (21.4%) all of which were spleen responses, and progressive disease (PD) in 1 (7.1%). Trial was halted secondary to lack of anemia response. Table 1. Patient Specific Response Patient IWG-MRT Response: Study Cycles (N): Prior therapy (within 3 mo) Hemoglobin Response*: (initial, final g/dL) Platelet Response*: (initial, final 10(9)/L) Ruxolitinib 1 CI-Spleen 5 D (8.8, 7.6) S (221,212) 2 SD 4 D (10.3,7.9) S (54,46) 3 SD 2 S (8.8,8.9) S (82,101) 4 SD 3 I (8.9,9.8) S (441,458) 5 SD 3 S (9.6, 9.5) I (161, 231) JAK Inhibitor: 6 SD 5 Momelotinib S (9.0, 9.2) S (132,113) 7 SD 1 NS-018 D (8.3, 7.1) D (120,43) 8 SD 3 NS-018 D (10.1,9.0) D (138,111) 9 SD 2 LY2784544 S (8.7,9.1) S (56,21) Other: 10 CI-Spleen 9 Procrit I (10.5,11.9) S (153,198) 11 CI-Spleen 7 None I (8.9,10.2) D (338,133) 12 PD 1 Hydroxyurea S (12.4, 12.2) D (310, 82) 13 SD 1 Procrit D (10.1, 8.6) D (192, 71) 14 SD 1 Hydroxyurea S (9.1,8.9) D (346,119 *S=stable (Hgb +/- 0.5g/dL, Plt +/- 50x109, D=decreasing, I=increasing. Conclusions: Although overall well tolerated, the addition of danazol to ruxolitinib therapy has modest incremental efficacy by IWG-MRT criteria. Clinical improvement was observed in 21.4% of treated patients, however responses were limited to spleen reduction. The degree to which danazol may stabilize expected cytopenias is interesting and may require further investigation. Disclosures Hoffman: Promedior: Research Funding; Geron: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; All Cells, LLC: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Mesa:Gilead: Research Funding; Genentech: Research Funding; Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation: Consultancy; CTI Biopharma: Research Funding; Pfizer: Research Funding; Promedior: Research Funding; NS Pharma: Research Funding; Incyte Corporation: Research Funding.
Myelodysplastic Syndromes and Acute Myelogenous Leukemia Resulting from Therapy for Autoimmune Disease, a Case-Control Cohort Study

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 5636-5636

10.1182/blood.v126.23.5636.5636

Abstract Background Cytotoxic agents are a well-established risk factor for therapy related myeloid neoplasms (t-MN). The incidence of t-MN in patients (pts) with autoimmune diseases (AID) treated with cytotoxic and immuno-modulatory agents are not well described in the literature. Most case series assess an MDS/AML population and co-occurrence with an AID. To our knowledge, there exists no large case-control studies evaluating a primary AID population that developed therapy-related MDS or AML, and the relationship to detailed therapeutic intervention for AID. Our study queries the association of cytotoxic and immune-modulating agents to treat AID as risk factor for developing MDS or AML. Methods Between 2004-2014, 23,671 pts with an ICD-9 coded AID were seen at Mayo Clinic Arizona; 148 pts from this population had a concomitant coded diagnosis of MDS/AML. In an IRB approved, retrospective chart review we confirmed 61 cases meeting strict inclusion criteria. We performed a case-control match from the same primary AID population for age, gender, and autoimmune specific diagnosis at a 2:1 ratio. AML/MDS cases were compared to controls by use of chi-square test for frequency data. Odds ratios with 95% confidence interval were constructed using conditional logistic regression. Case incidence was compared to SEER data for the general population Results Of 61 cases 33 were MDS, 20 de-novo AML, and 8 MDS transformed to AML. Psoriasis 16 (26.2%) and rheumatoid arthritis 14 (23.0%) were the most common autoimmune diagnoses, followed by systemic lupus 11 (18%), Crohn's disease 7 (11.5%), and ulcerative colitis 5 (8.2%). 39 out of 61 cases (63.9%) received either a cytotoxic or immune modulating agent for AID, compared to 64/122 (52.5%) in the control group; p=0.140. 7/61 cases (11.5%) received both a cytotoxic and immune modulating agent as compared to 16/122 (13.1%) in controls; p=0.753. Overall, the case population received more agents than controls. No cytotoxic or immune-modulating treatment was documented in 16% of cases and 36% controls. Exposures to cytotoxic and immune-modulating agents were similar in both case and control cohorts. Exposure time was not statistically significant. Azathioprine was the only statistically significant agent exposure observed more often in the case cohort than control. Per SEER data, over a 10-year period in a general age-matched population that is comparable to our AID population cohort, we would expect 54 MDS and 35 AML cases. Table 1. Exposures and Timeline Cases (n=61) Controls (n=122) P value * Number of Systemic Agents, Total None 1 2 3 4+ - 10 (16.4%) 26 (42.6%) 12 (19.7%) 7 (11.5%) 6 (9.8%) - 44 (36.1%) 32 (26.2%) 31 (25.4%) 9 (7.4%) 6 (4.9%) 0.020 Exposure to Cytotoxic agent < 1 year 2-5 years 6-10 years 11 years or more Unknown (n=26) 7 (26.9%) 6 (23.1%) 5 (19.2%) 3 (11.5%) 5 (19.2%) (n=43) 5 (11.6%) 8 (18.6%) 6 (13.9%) 12 (27.9%) 12 (27.9%) 0.276 Exposure to Immune modulating agent < 1 year 2-5 years 6-10 years 11 years or more Unknown (n=20) 6 (30%) 6 (30%) 3 (15%) 1 (5%) 4 (20%) (n=37) 6 (16.2%) 10 (27.0%) 5 (13.5%) 3 (8.1%) 13 (35.1%) 0.661 Table 2. Treatments and Odds Ratio Odds Ratio 95% CI for OR P value * Cytotoxic OVERALLAzathioprine Cyclophosphamide Methotrexate Mitoxantrone 6-MP Mycophenolate 1.39 4.16 1.28 0.74 2.73 1.00 1.21 0.72, 2.67 1.29, 13.44 0.24, 6.89 0.29, 1.88 0.23, 33.0 0.23, 4.35 0.28, 5.21 0.322 0.017 0.773 0.528 0.429 0.999 0.803 Immune modulating agent OVERALLAnti-TNF Leflunomide Plaquenil 1.19 0.73 2.00 2.73 0.52, 2.73 0.24, 2.24 0.40, 9.91 0.80, 8.33 0.672 0.585 0.396 0.077 Discussion Treatment of AID does not seem to increase the incidence of MDS or AML. Furthermore, the incidence of myeloid neoplasm occurring in association with treatment of AID is not higher than expected in the general SEER population. However, the case cohort was exposed to more agents overall and more likely to have exposure to azathioprine than controls. Limitations of our study are associated with its retrospective nature, possible associated underrepresentation of t-MN, and autoimmune population profile. Nevertheless, this is the largest case study with detailed drug exposures with timelines for pts with AID, contributing to a better understanding regarding possible risk of developing MDS/AML in pts treated for AID. Confirmation of the same study at Mayo Clinic Rochester and Florida are ongoing. Disclosures Al-Kali: Novartis: Research Funding.
An Inhibitor of TGF-β Promotes Proliferation of Normal but Not MPN Hematopoietic Cells and Is a Candidate Therapeutic Agent for the Treatment of MPN Patients Carrying JAK2 V617F or Calr pQ365fs Mutations

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 4089-4089

10.1182/blood.v126.23.4089.4089

Abstract The inhibitory effects exerted by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) on adult erythropoiesis has been well established. Canonical SMAD-depedent TGF-β signaling inhibits erythroid differentiation at multiple levels: it induces hematopoietic stem cells into quiescence (Chabanon et at Stem Cells. 2008;26:3150), it elicits a Smad5-dependent inhibition of progenitor cell proliferation (Bruno et al, Blood 1998; 91:1971) by increasing the length of G1 through reduction of G1 cyclin and cyclin-dependent protein kinases (Jacobsen et al, Blood 1995; 86:2957; Geng and Weinberg, PNAS 1993; 90:10315) and triggers Smad4-signaling accelerating terminal erythroid maturation (Zermati et al, Exp hematol 2000; 28:885; Choi et al MCB 2005;271:23). TGF-β is expressed by almost every cell type, but is produced in the greatest amount by megakaryocytes (Assonian et al, JBC 1983;258:7155; Massague, Cell 2008;134, 215). TGF-β has been implicated in the pathogenesis of primary myelofibrosis (PMF) by Schmitt et al (Blood. 2000;96:1342). Plasma, bone marrow and spleen washes of PMF patients, as well as those from murine PMF models, contain 2 fold-greater levels of total and bioactive TGF-β than those from normal controls (Zingariello et al, Blood 2013;121:3345). In addition, megakaryocytes from PMFpatients contain greater amounts of TGF-β than those from other MPNs such as polycythemia vera (PV) and essential thrombocythemia (Ciurea et al, Blood 2007;110:986). Published data, however, also suggest that malignant MPN cells are insensitive to TGF-β. Microarray analyses of PMF bone marrow and spleen cells revealed TGF-β signaling abnormalities which predict activation of non-canonical p38/ERK-dependent rather than canonical SMAD-dependent signaling (Ciaffoni et al, BCMD 2015;54:234). In addition, by phosphoproteomic profiling of PV erythroblasts (Erys) expanded in vitro express lower levels of pSmad2 as compared to Erys from healthy controls (Hricik et al. AJH 2013;88:723). The hypothesis that malignant MPN cells are insensitive to TGF-β was tested here by evaluating the effect of SB431542 [1,3,10 and 26µM], a small molecule inhibitor of TGF-β receptor 1, on ex vivo erythropoiesis in cultures generated by peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with JAK2 V617+-PV (n=2) and JAK2 V617F+ or CALR pQ365f+-PMF. Identical experiments were performed with Erys generated from adult peripheral blood (AB, n=3) and cord blood (CB, n=2) of healthy controls. All cultures were stimulated with SCF, IL-3 and EPO with and without dexamethasone (Dex). In cultures of JAK2 V617F+ -PV, SB431542 increased by 2-fold the numbers of progenitor cells observed by day 6, but had no effect on that of Erys observed by day 12-17 [fold increase (FI) ~4 fold in all cases]. Moreover, neither the number of progenitor cells nor that of Erys were affected by SB431542 treatment in cultures generated from JAK2 V617F+ (n=1) and CALR pQ365fs+ -PMF (n=1) patients (Fig. 1). This lack of effects was observed in cultures with and without Dex. By contrast, as expected, in cultures of AB, SB431542 significantly increased by 2.5-fold the number of progenitor cells observed by day 6 and that of Erys observed by day 14-17 (Fig. 1). This increase was associated with greater retention of an immature erythroid phenotype (CD36+ CD235a+ cells 16% vs 3%) and an increased proliferative index (>3 Erys in metaphases per field vs 0). This was observed up to day 17 in cultures both with and without Dex. The effects of SB431542 in cultures of CB were, however, affected by the presence of Dex. In cultures without Dex, SB431542 increased by 2-fold the number of progenitor cells by day 6 but had no effect on that of Erys by day 12-17 (FI=10-15 and CD36+CD235a+ cells >60%). In the presence of Dex, SB431542 did not affect the number of progenitor cells at day 6 but reduced that of Erys by 3-fold on day 12-17. These results suggest that in the case of CB, TGF-β promotes erythroid maturation in synergy with Dex. In conclusion, SB431542 promoted proliferation and maturation of normal adult progenitor cells but had no effect on PMF progenitor cells suggesting that treatments with TGF-β receptor 1 inhibitors may reactivate normal hematopoiesis in PMF patients by providing a proliferative advantage to the resident non-diseased hematopoietic stem cells over the malignant clone. This therapeutic approach will be explored in a MPD-RC, multi-center, phase II trial in patients with PMF. Disclosures Hoffman: Geron: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; All Cells, LLC: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Promedior: Research Funding. Mascarenhas:Roche: Research Funding; Incyte Corporation: Research Funding; Kalobios: Research Funding; CTI Biopharma: Research Funding; Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation: Research Funding; Promedior: Research Funding.
Anti-Tumor Phagocytic Cell Activation in Multiple Myeloma By the IAP Antagonist LCL161: Results of a Phase II Clinical Trial

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 3039-3039

10.1182/blood.v126.23.3039.3039

Abstract Dexamethasone is a powerful anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive agent widely used in the treatment of MM with pleiotropic effects on both the tumor, and host immune cells. We report on a completely novel approach to immune modulation using an agent with almost directly opposite effects to glucocorticoids on innate immune cells. LCL161 is an IAP antagonist targeting the cellular inhibitor of apoptosis proteins cIAP1 and -2 (cIAP1/2) that in a phase I study in solid tumors was well tolerated with a cytokine release syndrome as the dose limiting toxicity. We previously reported that loss of cIAP1/2 in MM cells results in the stabilization of NIK and activation of the non-canonical NFkB pathway, a pathway we found frequently activated by a promiscuous array of mutations in multiple myeloma (MM). As expected, we found that LCL161 has no direct anti-tumor activity against MM cells in vitro and ex vivo. However, the non-canonical NFkB pathway is also a key activator of the innate immune response. Remarkably, we found that in vivo LCL161 has dramatic, apoptosis-independent activity associated with marked phagocytosisagainst MM that develops spontaneously in an immunocompetent genetically engineered mouse model of MM (Vk*MYC). Cyclophosphamide (Cy), which has been shown to induce an acute secretory activating phenotype in tumor-associated macrophages, markedly potentiated the anti-tumor effects of LCL161. We show that phagocytes (depleted by liposomal clodronate), but not adaptive immune cells, are required for the anti-tumor effect. Consistently we show that LCL161 activates dendritic cells and macrophages in vitro, and in vivo, and upregulates production of inflammatory cytokines. A phase 2 clinical trial of LCL161 was conducted in 24 patients with relapsed MM previously exposed to both IMiDs and PIs, but less than 5 prior lines of therapy. Patients received LCL161 1200mg po weekly, with Cy 500mg po weekly added for progressive disease or lack of response. Single agent LCL161 was well-tolerated, with grade 3 or 4 non-hematologic toxicity in four patients, and following the addition of cyclophosphamide in 9 patients. No patients responded to single agent LCL161, and the best response was stable disease in 6/24. In 21 patients, Cy was added after a median of 2 cycles, in whom the best response was stable disease or better in 18/21 (p<0.001 compared to LCL161 alone), and a PR or better (including 1 VGPR and 1 CR) in 5/21 (p<0.001 compared to LCL161 alone). Six months following the initiation of Cy, 35% of patients remain event-free. Two patients had stable disease for more than nine months after stopping treatment. One, relapsing after VDT-PACE, HDM200, RVd x 3 years with t(11;14) and del17p, received only three months of LCL161, the last month in combination with Cy. He then achieved a PR, reconstitution of his uninvolved IgG to normal levels for the first time in more than 3 years and still has not progressed one year after stopping therapy. Similar changes in serum and bone marrow inflammatory cytokines and gene expression were observed in patients following treatment with LCL161 to those observed in the mice. We conclude that LCL161 is able to modulate the tumor microenvironment to exert long-term disease control in combination with Cy, and deserves further study in combination with agents that more directly depend on phagocytic cell activity (e.g., monoclonal antibodies, inhibitors of "Don't eat me" signals). Disclosures Bergsagel: Novartis: Research Funding; Constellation Pharmaceuticals: Research Funding; Incyte: Consultancy; Jannsen: Consultancy; Mundipharma: Consultancy. Off Label Use: Use of LCL161 to treat multiple myeloma. Kumar:Celgene: Research Funding; Millenium/Takeda: Research Funding; Onyx: Research Funding; AbbVie: Research Funding; Janssen: Research Funding; Sanofi: Research Funding; Celgene, Millenium, Sanofi, Skyline, BMS, Onyx, Noxxon,: Other: Consultant, no compensation,; Skyline, Noxxon: Honoraria. Stewart:Oncospire Genomics: Research Funding.
Myeloproliferative Neoplasm Patient Symptom Burden and Quality of Life: Evidence of Significant Impairment Compared to Controls Using Multivariate Analysis

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 1620-1620

10.1182/blood.v126.23.1620.1620

Abstract Introduction: The myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) including polycythaemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythaemia (ET) and primary myelofibrosis (PMF) are rare diseases which contribute to significant morbidity. Symptom management is a prime objective in MPN treatment but current symptom assessment tools have not been validated compared to the general population. Materials and Methods: The MPN Symptom Assessment Form (MPN-SAF) is a reliable and validated clinical tool used to assess MPN symptom burden. The MPN-SAF was administered to MPN patients (n=106) and, for the first time, General Practice and non-blood relative/family controls (n=124) as part of a UK pilot case-control study. Mean scores for individual MPN-SAF items and for the Total Symptom Score were previously compared between cases and controls adjusting for potential confounding variables (Anderson LA, et al. Am J Hematol. 2015). The current analysis employed linear discriminant analysis (a multivariate technique) to compare MPN-10 symptom profiles between controls and cases, and between controls and patient groups by MPN diagnosis (ET n=55, PV n=37, PMF n=14). Results: MPN patients as a single group had significantly different MPN-10 symptom profiles compared to controls (multivariate analysis of variance [MANOVA] p<0.001). Discriminant loadings which represent correlations between each individual MPN-10 item and the single significant canonical variable were >0.30 for all MPN-10 items, and >0.50 for weight loss, fatigue, night sweats, bone pain, abdominal discomfort, inactivity, concentration problems, and itching. This suggests that all MPN-10 items contribute to distinguishing between patients and controls. The linear discriminate function correctly categorized 72% of all subjects. When considering patients by diagnosis, MPN-10 symptom profiles significantly differed across patients with ET, PV, and PMF and controls (MANOVA p<0.001). Three canonical variables were significant, with discriminant loadings of the first canonical variable being >0.50 for the same MPN-10 items as the previous analysis; of the second canonical variable for fever; and of the third canonical variable for bone pain. This suggests that MPN-10 items are broadly useful in differentiating between patients and controls, with particular symptoms (e.g., fever and bone pain) contributing to differentiating between patients with different diagnoses. The linear discriminate function correctly categorized 58% of all subjects. Conclusions: MPN patients experience significant morbidity when compared to the general population highlighting the need to manage symptoms effectively. Symptom profiles can not only distinguish MPN patients from general population participants, but also distinguish among patients with ET, PV, and PMF. The results further validate the use of the MPN-SAF as a discriminatory tool to assess MPN symptomatic disease burden. The MOSAICC Study team acknowledges the support of the National Institute for Health Research, through the Northern Ireland Cancer Research Network (NICRN) and for Southampton the Central South Coast Cancer Network (CSCCN). Disclosures Mesa: Novartis. Research- incyte, Gilead, cti, Genentech, promedior, NS Pharma: Consultancy.
Phase I/IB Study of Azacitidine and Hedgehog Pathway Inhibition in Myeloid Malignancies

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 1347-1347

10.1182/blood.v126.23.1347.1347

Abstract Background: Hypomethylating agents (HMA) such as 5-Azacitidine (Aza) have overall responses rate of ~35-50% in acute myeloid Leukemia (AML) and higher risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients (pts). However, eventually all pts develop resistance on therapy. To improve upfront response rates and to address HMA failure, we performed genome-scale RNAi screens targeting genes on chromosomes 5 and 7, recurrent cytogenetic abnormalities in AML/MDS. These screens identified Hedgehog pathway (Hh) genes as potentially targetable vulnerabilities with Aza. Combination experiments with smoothened (SMO) inhibitors (SMO is a central activating gene within the Hh pathway) showed pre-clinical synergy. These and additional published data support the Hh pathway as a targetable vulnerability in AML, and provide a rational for a trial. Methods: A phase I/Ib protocol of the oral SMO inhibitor LDE225 (Sonidegib) in combination with Aza in untreated and relapsed/refractory (rel/ref) AML, chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML), MDS, or MDS/myeloproliferative neoplasm overlap pts. Objectives of the phase I part are to determine safety, toxicity and MTD and for the phase Ib part to assess the preliminary overall efficacy. Sonidegib was started at dose level (DL) 0 at 400mg oral daily continuously and Aza at the approved doses (75mg/m2 x 7 days or days 5-2-2) with dose adjustment per label. A classical 3+3 design was used and DLT (CTCAE v4.0) defined as > grade 3 CPK elevation or hepatic or non-hematologic adverse events (AEs) lasting > 7 days or any grade 4 event, except for hematologic toxicities. DLT was assessed after 42 days when steady-state concentrations of Sonidegib were reached. Pharmacokinetic assessments were not performed for this study. Results: Patients and Dose Levels : Between 5/22/2014 and the data cut-off date (7/20/2015), 36 pts were enrolled. Median age was 72 y (range 52-85 y) and 64% were male. Most AML pts (23 of 24) had intermediate or unfavorable cytogenetics and most MDS/CMML pts were in the int.- to high-/very high-risk group (IPSS-R). Six pts were treated at DL-0 of Sonidegib 400mg/day and one DLT of CPK elevation was observed. Another patient had grade 4 neutropenia (which at the time was included in the DLT definition, later removed). Due to overall tolerance of the combination at DL 0 and investigator assessment, despite only 1/6 pts having a formal DLT, DL -1 at Sonidegib 200mg was explored at which 0/3 pts (1 pt non-evaluable) had DLT and the phase Ib portion was opened at DL -1. To date a total of 24 AML (13 newly dx, 11 rel/ref), 11 MDS/CMML (5 newly dx, 6 rel/ref ) and 1 myelofibrosis pt have been enrolled. Safety and Tolerability: An initial safety and efficacy assessment for 25 of the 29 pts treated on the phase Ib (n=26) + the MTD cohort of 200 mg (n=3) and for who at least 2 cycles of treatment follow up was available, showed that all pts experienced at least one grade-3 or 4 hematologic AE with a lower rate in the untreated vs. treated cohort. Other, non-hematologic grade-3 and 4 AEs respectively were seen in 24 and 28% of patients-most commonly hyponatremia and fatigue, known AEs for this drug class. Treatment delays occurred in 28% of pts and Aza or Sonidegib dose reductions in 16%. 23 (79%) pts are alive and 6 have died (21%), with one death while pt was actively treated but was deemed unrelated; 11 pts remain on study, with the remainder showing disease progression (n=3) or taken-off study for other reasons (n=3 each for AEs and did not want further treatment; n=4 other). Efficacy : As of 7/20/15 with a median treatment duration of 2 cycles, 2/5 untreated MDS/CMML pts achieved CR/CRi; 1 HMA rel/ref AML had CR; 1 untreated AML pt each had PR and MLFS. 90% of pts have not progressed. Updated results will be presented at the ASH 2015 meeting; by then all 29 pts will have completed a minimum of 4-6 cycles on study and full efficacy and AE result on all pts will be reported. To date the OS at 6 mo is 77% (95% CI: 44-97%) with a median PFS of 4 mo (range: 2-NR). Many pts in the untreated cohorts have just enrolled. Conclusion: Hh pathway inhibition with the clinically well tolerated SMO inhibitor Sonidegib in combination with Aza in MDS and AML pts is well tolerated with mostly hematologic AEs as expected with early signs of clinical activity in untreated and HMA-failure pts. Full efficacy results of 29 pts and updated safety data will be reported for this first combination trial of a SMO inhibitor in combination with a HMA in MDS and AML pts. Disclosures Mesa: Gilead: Research Funding; Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation: Consultancy; Incyte Corporation: Research Funding; Genentech: Research Funding; Pfizer: Research Funding; Promedior: Research Funding; NS Pharma: Research Funding; CTI Biopharma: Research Funding. Al-Kali:Novartis: Research Funding.