Citations 499

The Natural History of CSF3R-Mutated Chronic Neutrophilic Leukemia: A Mayo Clinic Series of 14 Consecutive Cases

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 124 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 1827-1827

10.1182/blood.v124.21.1827.1827

Abstract Activating mutations in colony stimulating factor 3 receptor gene (CSF3R) have recently been identified as specific driver mutations in chronic neutrophilic leukemia (CNL)(NEJM 2013;368:1781). We sought to outline the clinical and laboratory characteristics and natural history of this molecularly defined entity. Methods : An IRB- approved retrospective analysis of all cases of CSF3R-mutated WHO-defined CNL was undertaken. Methods of mutation analysis have been previously published. (Leukemia 2013; 27: 1870) Results : From 10/1995 to 3/2013, fourteen patients (median age 67 years; 57% male) with CSF3R-mutated CNL were evaluated at the Mayo Clinic. Most of the CSF3R mutations identified occurred in isolation: T618I (n=11), M696T (n=2) and I598I SYN (n=1), although one T618I mutant patient also carried a cytoplasmic domain mutation (2341_2342insC ). All patients were BCR/ABL negative. Five carried a SETBP1 mutation: G870D (n=2), D868N (n=2) and G872R (n=1), all of whom carried the T618I mutation. Only one of 10 tested carried a CALR mutation (E398D) and none of 13 the JAK2 V617F mutation. Apart from fatigue, most patients were asymptomatic at diagnosis and leukocytosis had been mostly an incidental laboratory finding. Ten (71%) patients had preceding chronic leukocytosis, median duration 12.5 months (range 5-84), 5 reported weight loss, which was accompanied by fevers/ sweats in 3. Five (36%) patients had prior exposures to adjuvant chest wall irradiation for breast cancer (n=2), radioiodine for thyroid disease (n=2) and methotrexate/cyclophosphamide for autoimmune disease (n=2). Five (36%) patients had palpable splenomegaly. Peripheral blood (PB) parameters, median (range) at diagnosis were: Hb 10.8 g/dl (8.5-16.0), WBC: 54 x 10(9)/L (21.7-176.2), platelets: 201 x 10(9)/L (25-476), neutrophils: 85% (78-94), immature cells (myelocytes + metamyelocytes): 6% (0-11) and monocytes: 3% (0-10). Neutrophils had toxic granulation and Dohle Bodies in 71% of cases. LDH was elevated in all patients: 354 U/L (225-496). None had a monoclonal protein. The bone marrow (BM) was hypercellular in all patients: 95% (80-100%) and granulocytic precursors were markedly increased with left-shifted (n=11) or normal maturation. BM blasts were < 5%. Reticulin fibrosis was absent (n=5), 1+ (n=5) or 1-2+ (n=1) in those with staining. Cytogenetics were normal in all but one at diagnosis. One patient was lost to follow up after diagnosis. Hydroxyurea (HU) was the most frequently used therapy (initial therapy in 10 patients) and was ultimately received by all. Although initially effective at controlling leukocytosis, clinical course of most was defined by progressive refractory mature neutrophilia with the development of red cell (n=6) and platelet transfusion (n=3) dependancy. Other therapies included IFN or PEG/IFN (n=4), hypomethylating agents (n=4), ruxolitinib (n=2), thalidomide (n=2), cladribine (n=2) and imatinib (n=1). None of these additional drugs, induced remission and they provided primarily palliative and transient benefit. One patient transformed into AML at 17 months, one received induction chemotherapy for suspected AML (PB and BM blasts at 11-13%) at 19 months and two evolved into WHO-defined CMML, at 20 and 27 months, respectively. Both patients with documented/suspected AML were both T618I and SETBP1 positive. Of the cases progressing to CMML (one with T618I, one with M696T) neither was SETBP1 positive. At last follow up, eight patients had died and median survival was 22.5 months. Progressive refractory neutrophilic leukocytosis often preceded and contributed to death. Four (29%) patients are currently alive after a median follow-up of 61 months (14.3- 69.4). Conclusion : CSF3R-mutated CNL is an aggressive disease (median survival <2 years) characterized by progressive neutrophilic leukocytosis which is only partially controlled with current drugs, including the putative targeted therapy ruxolitinib (both ruxolitinib-treated patients progressed on treatment). Patients with CNL could progress into AML or CMML; however, most succumb from complications associated with progressive treatment-refractory leukocytosis. The observation that both patients with documented/suspected AML were SETBP1-mutation positive suggests potential pathogenetic link. Disclosures Off Label Use: Ruxolitinib, cladribine, thalidomideand inteferon. These drugs were used in a historical account of CNL and I report on these in a retrospective chart review only..
Marked Elevation of Serum Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) in Primary Myelofibrosis: Clinical and Prognostic Correlates

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 128 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 3113-3113

10.1182/blood.v128.22.3113.3113

Abstract Background Increased serum levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) typically accompany primary myelofibrosis (PMF) and might be linked to increased cell turnover from clonal myeloproliferation, including leukocytosis, low grade hemolysis and extra-medullary hematopoiesis in the liver. Despite the fact that serum LDH has been extensively utilized as a prognostic marker in both lymphoid neoplasms and solid tumors, there are limited studies in PMF that have systematically examined the clinical significance of the degree of serum LDH elevation in PMF. Methods Study patients fulfilled the 2016 WHO criteria for the diagnosis of PMF, including both pre-PMF and overt PMF (Blood. 2016;127:2391). Additional selection criteria included the availability of serum LDH at time of referral. Marked elevation of serum LDH was defined as a value of ≥1000 U/L (i.e. over 4-fold increase from the upper limit of the normal range for our institution, which was 122-222 U/L), based on preliminary analysis of the threshold for prognostic effect. Targeted next generation sequencing was used to screen for prognostically-relevant mutations (Blood 2015126:354). Statistical analyses considered clinical and laboratory parameters obtained at time of initial referral to the Mayo Clinic. Results LDH values in overt PMF versus pre-PMF: The entire study population consisted of 357 patients, including 311 with overt PMF and 46 with pre-PMF. The median serum LDH level was 514 U/L (range 136-2263): overt PMF 532 U/L (range 136-2263); pre-PMF 401 U/L (range 180-1237) (p=0.0003). Accordingly, in order to avoid the confounding effect of the difference in serum LDH level between overt PMF and pre-PMF, and considering the small number of patients with pre-PMF, further analysis was limited to the 311 patients with overt PMF. Patient characteristics: The 311 patients (median age 64 years; 66% males) with overt PMF included 205 (66%) JAK2, 49 (16%) type 1/like CALR, 13 (4%) type 2/like CALR, 16 (5%) MPL mutated cases and 28 (9%) were "triple-negative". DIPSS-plus risk distribution was 31% high, 43% intermediate-2, 15% intermediate-1 and 12% low; 30% displayed red cell transfusion-dependency and 37% abnormal karyotype, including 14% with unfavorable karyotype. 184 patients were screened for ASXL1 mutations with 42% mutated and 205 for SRSF2 mutations with 16% mutated. Clinical correlates of markedly elevated LDH (≥1000 U/L): Among all 311 study patients with overt PMF, 37 (12%) displayed marked elevation of LDH (≥1000/L). Patients with marked elevation of LDH displayed significantly higher leukocyte count (p=0.005; R-squared = 0.05), circulating blast percentage (p=0.03; R-squared = 0.07) and SRSF2 mutational frequency (44% vs 12%; p<0.0001). Survival analysis: After a median follow up of 3 years, 199 (64%) deaths and 31 (10%) leukemic transformations were documented. In univariate analysis, increased serum LDH level was associated with inferior survival, both as a continuous variable (p=0.002) and as a categorical variable with the cutoff level of 1000 U/L (HR 2.02, 95% CI 1.3-3.1; p=0.001); the survival effect LDH ≥1000/L was independent of DIPSS-plus (HR 1.6, 95% CI 1.1-2.5). Other variables that were significantly associated with shortened survival, on univariate analysis, included all 8 DIPSS-plus variables (p≤0.01 in all instances), absence of CALR type 1/type 1-like (p<0.0001) and presence of ASXL1 (p<0.0001) or SRSF2 (p=0.0006) mutations. In multivariable analysis that included only genetic risk factors, serum LDH retained its significance (HR 2.2, 95% CI 1.3-3.6), along with absence of CALR type 1/type 1-like, or presence of ASXL1 or SRSF2 mutations or unfavorable karyotype. In multivariable analysis that included only clinical variables, serum LDH ≥1000/L was again independently predictive of poor survival (HR 1.7, 95% CI 1.1-2.6), along with age >65 years, hemoglobin <10 g/dL, platelets <100 x 10(9)/L, leukocyte count >25 x 10(9)/L and constitutional symptoms. Patients with marked LDH elevation were also more likely to undergo leukemic transformation (HR 3.1, 95% CI 1.2-7.6). Conclusion The current study suggests that marked elevation of serum LDH in PMF indicates aggressive tumor biology that is currently not accounted for by established clinical or genetic risk factors; the low R-squared values seen in relation to leukocyte count and circulating blasts are consistent with this assumption. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Isolated Factor V Deficiency in Myeloproliferative Neoplasms: A Mayo Clinic Series of 33 Patients

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 124 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 3199-3199

10.1182/blood.v124.21.3199.3199

Background: Although the association of acquired isolated factor V (FV) deficiency with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) has been described, it has not been well characterized. Objective: To characterize the clinical and laboratory features of patients with MPN and isolated FV deficiency. Methods: After IRB approval, patients with MPN who underwent coagulation profile diagnostic testing from January 1980 to December 2012 were identified via the Mayo Clinic Special Coagulation Laboratory Registry. Medical records of those with MPN and concurrent isolated FV deficiency or those with mild coagulopathy who had at least 20% discordantly lower FV activity were reviewed. Excluded were patients with known inherited bleeding diathesis, clinically significant liver disease, or on concurrent warfarin treatment. Data on patient demographics, clinical features and laboratory data were abstracted. Results: Thirty three patients met our study criteria (median age 67 years; 55% males; median BMI 25 kg/m2). Twenty one (64%) patients had either primary or post-polycythemia vera (PV) or post-essential thrombocythemia (ET) myelofibrosis; five (15%) had PV; three (9%) had unclassified MPN; two (6%) had ET; and one (3%) each had chronic myeloid leukemia and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia. Majority of these patients had splenomegaly (85%), with a median palpable spleen size of 14.3 cm below the left costal margin. Nearly 40% had hepatomegaly (median 4 cm below the right costal margin). Twelve (36%) patients were being treated with hydroxyurea; nine (27%) with aspirin and seven (21%) with an investigational agent. Nearly two-thirds (n=21; 64%) of these individuals had bleeding episodes, nine (43%) of which were provoked either by a surgical intervention or trauma. Majority of the bleeding episodes (n=15; 71%) were clinically significant/major bleed, as defined by the standard International Society of Thrombosis Haemostasis criteria, of whom eight required red cell transfusion support. Most of the bleeding were from muco-cutaneous surfaces (45%), followed by excessive bleeding from surgical site (24%). Median time from MPN diagnosis to bleeding was 5.4 years (range: 0 – 25). Of note, 42% (n=14) of all patients had thrombotic events (5 ischemic stroke/ TIA; 4 peripheral artery disease; 1 myocardial infarction; 1 splenic artery thrombosis; 3 leg DVT; and 3 splanchnic vein thrombosis) prior to their bleeding episode. Median time from MPN diagnosis to thrombosis was 1.4 years (range: 0.1 – 19.7). The median (range) leukocyte and platelet count were 17.8 (3.6 – 212.7) x 1000/ mm3 and 315 (16 – 1284) x 1000/ mm3, respectively. The median (range) PT [reference range: 10.3 – 12.8 sec] and aPTT [reference range: 26 – 36 sec.] were 13.3 sec (10.1 – 18.7) and 38 sec (29 – 66), respectively. The median FV activity [reference range: 70 – 165%] was 44% (range: 18% - 60%). Seven of the 18 individuals (39%) tested for von Willebrand syndrome had ristocetin cofactor activity (RCoA)/von Willebrand antigen (vWF Ag) ratio of <0.7, although their vWF Ag and RCoA were within the normal reference range. Seventeen (52%) patients had platelet aggregation studies; all had at least one aggregation abnormality. Abnormal or absent response to epinephrine was the commonest noted abnormality (n=15), followed by an abnormal response to collagen (n=6). On univariate analysis, there was no significant correlation of FV activity with age, sex, BMI, myelofibrosis, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, WBC count, platelet count, or use of hydroxyurea or investigational drugs. Further, on univariate analysis, neither the aforementioned covariates, nor aspirin use, WBC count, platelet count, FV activity, abnormal platelet aggregation, RCoA/vWF Ag ratio < 0.7 were predictive of either overall bleeding, provoked bleeding or clinically significant/major bleed. Conclusions: Isolated FV deficiency associated with MPN often co-exists with platelet dysfunction and/or an acquired vWF abnormality, which together may contribute to a clinically significant bleeding diathesis. Our experience did not lead to identification of specific risk factors for MPN-associated isolated FV deficiency. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Long-Term Follow Up Of a Randomized Phase II Study Of The JAK2-Selective Inhibitor Fedratinib (SAR302503) In Patients With Myelofibrosis (MF)

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 122 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 4047-4047

10.1182/blood.v122.21.4047.4047

Abstract Background We previously reported that patients with MF enrolled in a randomized Phase II study of fedratinib (SAR302503) (ARD11936; NCT01420770) had clinically meaningful reductions in splenomegaly and improvements in MF-associated constitutional symptoms after 24 weeks of treatment (Haematologica 2013;98:S1113). Here, we report updated efficacy and safety results from this study after 48 weeks of treatment (end of Cycle 12). Methods Patients with intermediate risk-2 or high-risk MF were randomized to receive once-daily fedratinib at doses of 300 mg, 400 mg, or 500 mg, for consecutive 4-weekly cycles, until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Eligible patients were aged ≥18 years, with palpable splenomegaly (5 cm below costal margin), and a platelet count ≥50 × 109/L. The primary measure for this study was percent change in spleen volume from baseline at the end of Cycle 3 (Blood 2012:120;Abstract 2837. Haematologica 2013;98:S1113). Endpoints for the current analysis included spleen response (≥35% reduction in spleen volume from baseline, assessed by a blinded independent central review by MRI), safety, and changes in bone marrow fibrosis (BMF). Results A total of 31 patients were randomized and treated: median age 63 years, 52% male, 58% primary MF, 58% high-risk MF, 90% JAK2V617F positive. The median numbers of treatment cycles were 12, 14, and 13 in the 300 mg, 400 mg and 500 mg dose groups, respectively, with median durations of exposure of 48.2, 56.2, and 52.4 weeks. At the cut-off date for this analysis, 21 patients (68%) remained on treatment; the most common reasons for treatment discontinuation were adverse events (AEs) (n=5) and withdrawal of consent (n=2). Overall, 58% (18/31) of patients achieved a spleen response at any time during treatment. The median spleen response duration was >35 weeks at all doses (Table). At Week 48, a spleen response was achieved by 30% (3/10), 80% (8/10), and 45% (5/11) of patients in the 300 mg, 400 mg, and 500 mg groups, respectively. Responses were generally maintained across all treatment groups. From Week 24 to Week 48 two additional patients achieved a spleen response (both in the 400 mg group), while one patient in the 500 mg group did not maintain a response (this patient had a fedratinib dose reduction to 200 mg). Changes in BMF up to Week 48 are being evaluated. The most common non-hematologic AE was diarrhea, with a Grade 3 rate of 13% (4/31 patients) but no Grade 4 cases were recorded. The rates of diarrhea decreased after the first cycle of treatment; from Cycle 2, the incidence of diarrhea (any grade) did not exceed 16% (5/31) at any cycle, and only one case of diarrhea was reported at Week 48 (end of Cycle 12). Anemia was the most-common hematologic toxicity, with a Grade 3 rate of 58% (18/31); no Grade 4 cases were reported. All Grades thrombocytopenia occurred in 55% (17/31) of patients, Grade 3 in three patients, and Grade 4 in two patients. Discontinuation of treatment due to AEs occurred in five patients over the 48 weeks (300 mg [n=2]; 400 mg [n=2]; 500 mg [n=1]), with two cases reported after Week 24 (dyspnea and leukocytosis [400 mg]; anemia and thrombocytopenia [500 mg]). There were 2 deaths (one in the 300 mg group due to unknown reasons [85 days after fedratinib discontinuation] and one in the 500 mg group due to disease progression [36 days after fedratinib discontinuation]). No cases of leukemic transformation were reported. Conclusions This updated analysis of the ARD11936 Phase II trial shows that treatment with fedratinib results in durable reductions in splenomegaly in patients with MF. No additional safety signals were observed with prolonged exposure to fedratinib. This study was sponsored by Sanofi. Disclosures: Pardanani: Sanofi, Bristol Myers Squibb, PharmaMar and JW Pharma: Clinical trial support Other. Jamieson:J&J, Roche: Research Funding; Sanofi: Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees. Lebedinsky:Sanofi: Employment. Gao:Sanofi: Employment. Talpaz:Novartis, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Ariad, Deciphera: Research Funding; Novartis, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Ariad, Deciphera: Speakers Bureau.
Defect in Ribosome Biogenesis Contributes to Impaired Megakaryopoiesis in Primary Myelofibrosis

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 124 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 4585-4585

10.1182/blood.v124.21.4585.4585

Abstract Primary myelofibrosis (PMF) is a clonal hematologic malignancy resulting from the transformation of a pluripotent hematopoietic progenitor cell leading to increased hematopoiesis and overproduction of abnormal blood cells. PMF is characterized by bone marrow (BM) fibrosis, extramedullary hematopoiesis, increased numbers of circulating CD34+ cells, splenomegaly, and a propensity to evolve to AML. Patients also display anemia and thrombocytopenia and harbor abnormal, immature megakaryocytes (Mks) in their BM and spleen. Numerous mutations are associated with PMF including JAK2, CALR, MPL, TET2, CBL, ASXL1, and IDH. The presence of abnormal Mks in the BM of PMF patients is an important characteristic of the disease, as these cells are believed to contribute to the fibrosis.Here, we performed an analysis of Mk differentiation from individuals with PMF compared to healthy individuals as a way to better understand the mechanism leading to their defects. CD34+ cells obtained from PMF and healthy donors were cultivated in presence of thrombopoietin to induce Mks differentiation. Under these conditions, we observed that the proliferative capacity of CD34+ cells from PMF patients was increased as compared to normal CD34+ cells. At the same time, the percentage of mature Mks obtained was reduced. Semi-solid culture conditions confirmed the proliferative advantage of the PMF CD34+ cells. To investigate the mechanism responsible for this phenotype, we performed genome wide expression analysis of sorted Mks from patients versus controls. Nine PMF patients with different mutations (5 JAK2V617F, 1 MPLW515L, 2 CALR and 1 triple negative) and 4 healthy donors were included in the study. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) analysis revealed that the top scoring pathways included the RPS14 signature, ribosome biogenesis, rRNA metabolic process, and rRNA processing. We first studied the RPS14 geneset, which consists of a group of genes that were up-regulated in CD34+ cells after knock-down of RPS14, a component of the small ribosome subunit. Using shRNA against RPS14, we discovered that its knock down leads to a significant reduction in the development of mature Mks from normal CD34+ cells. The microarray data also revealed changes in the expression of several myeloid genes. CEBPa and GFI-1 were over-expressed in PMF Mks, whereas GFI-1b and PF4, which are associated with Mk differentiation, were down-regulated. Surprisingly the expression of GATA1, a master regulator of megakaryopoiesis, was not changed. However, consistent with previous report, we discovered that GATA1 protein level was reduced in PMF Mks. GATA1 deficient Mks are impaired in their maturation, so we reasoned that the reduction in GATA1 contributes to the defects in PMF. Indeed, we found that overexpression of GATA1 in PMF CD34+ cells rescued Mk differentiation. To understand how GATA1 protein but not mRNA, is reduced, we knocked down RPS14 in the JAK2 mutant SET2 megakaryoblastic cell line. As predicted, we observed a reduction in GATA1 protein, but not mRNA. By ribosomal profiling, we saw that the shRPS14 led to an abnormal ribosomal profile with a reduction of the 40s peak. Finally, by RT-PCR analysis of the ribosomal and polysomal fractions, we found that GATA1 mRNA was less abundant in the polysomal fraction in cells expressing the shRPS14. This finding is consistent with recent data showing that alterations in ribosomal genes cause a decrease in GATA1 protein in Diamond-Blackfan Anemia. Although we identified the RPS14 gene signature, we did not observe changes in RPS14 expression or in any of the ribosomal subunits. Since our GSEA analysis also identified deficiencies in three ribosomal biogenesis pathways, we looked for genes present in all three signatures. NOP58, a ribonucleoprotein required for ribosome biogenesis, was significantly reduced in all samples of PMF Mks. To link the reduction in NOP58 expression with PMF associated mutations, we expressed MPLW515L or the CALR type II mutant in hematopoietic progenitor cells and detected a reduction in NOP58 expression. Our findings suggest that the activation of JAK/STAT signaling leads to a reduction in NOP58, which contributes to defects in ribosome assembly, decreased GATA1 expression and subsequent impairment in Mk differentiation. This work reveals, for the first time, that defective ribosomes contribute to the pathogenesis of PMF and suggests new avenues for therapeutic intervention. Disclosures Stein: Incyte Corporation: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Sanofi Oncology: Honoraria.
Targeted Next-Generation Sequencing in Polycythemia Vera and Essential Thrombocythemia

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 354-354

10.1182/blood.v126.23.354.354

Abstract Background : Polycythemia Vera (PV) is associated with JAK2 mutations. In essential thrombocythemia (ET), ̴ 85% of patients harbor one of 3 "driver" mutations, with frequencies of ̴ 58%, 23% and 4%, for JAK2, CALR and MPL, respectively; ̴ 15% are wild type for all three mutations and are referred to as "triple negative". We applied next-generation sequencing (NGS) with a 27-gene panel of myeloid malignancy-relevant genes, in order to describe the prevalence of "non-driver" mutations and their prognostic relevance in PV and ET. Methods: Targeted capture assays were carried out on bone marrow or whole blood DNA for the following genes: TET2, DNMT3A, IDH1, IDH2, ASXL1, EZH2, SUZ12, SRSF2, SF3B1, ZRSR2, U2AF1, PTPN11, Tp53, SH2B3, RUNX1, CBL, NRAS, JAK2, CSF3R, FLT3, KIT, CALR, MPL, NPM1, CEBPA, IKZF, and SETBP1.Paired-end indexed libraries were prepared using the NEBNext Ultra Library prep protocol (NEB, Ipswich, MA /Agilent Technologies Inc, Santa Clara, CA). Capture libraries were assembled according to Nimblegen standard library protocol (Roche Nimblegen, Inc, Basel, Switzerland). Base-calling was performed using Illumina's RTA version 1.17.21.3. Genesifter® software (PerkinElmer, Danvers, Massachusetts) was utilized to analyze targeted sequence data. Nucleotide variants were called using the Genome Analysis Toolkit (GATK -Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA). Specific variants were deemed as mutations if they are associated with a hematologic malignancy (COSMIC database), or if they have not been associated with a dbSNP. Results: 314 patients with PV (n =133; median age 64 years, 53% females) or ET (n =181; median age 58 years, 59% females) were evaluated. Median follow-up was 9.8 years for PV and 9.2 years for ET. During this time 59 (44%) deaths, 15 (11%) fibrotic and 5 (4%) leukemic transformations were documented for PV and the corresponding percentages for ET were approximately 33%, 8% and 2%. Driver mutation distribution was 98% JAK2 for PV and 52% JAK2, 24% CALR, 20% triple-negative and 4% MPL for ET. Polycythemia Vera Mutations other than JAK2, CALR or MPL were seen in 58 (44%) patients; 29% harbored one, 14% two and one 3 mutations. None of 3 JAK2 -unmutated cases expressed non-driver mutations. Mutational frequencies were 18% TET2, 11% ASXL1, 5% SH2B3, 3% SF3B1 and ≤2% SETBP1, IDH2, DNMT3A, CEBPA, CSF3R and SUZ12, SRSF2, ZRSR2, TP53, CBL, NRAS, RUNX1, KIT, PTPN11 and FLT3. "Number of mutations" significantly affected overall (OS; Figure 1) and myelofibrosis-free (MFS) survival; respective HR (95% CI) were 2.6 (1.3-5.2) and 1.7 (0.97-3.1) and 13.7 (2.9-63.4) and 5.1 (1.5-17.6) for ≥2 mutations and one mutation, respectively. OS was also adversely affected by SRSF2 (p=0.006) and RUNX1 (p=0.04) and borderline affected by TET2 (p=0.06), IDH2 (p=0.08), ASXL1 (p=0.19) and SF3B1 (p=0.19) mutations. In multivariable analysis, SRSF2 and RUNX1 retained significance whereas the others remained borderline significant. In both univariate and multivariable analyses, leukemia-free survival (LFS) was adversely affected by IDH2 and RUNX1 mutations. In univariate analysis, ASXL1, IDH2, RUNX1 and KIT mutations predicted fibrotic progression, whereas SETBP1 was of borderline significance (p=0.07); all, including SETBP1, were significant during multivariable analysis. Essential thrombocythemia Mutations other than JAK2, CALR or MPL were seen in 83 (46%) patients; 35% harbored one, 7% two and 4% three mutations; prevalence in JAK2, CALR, MPL mutated and triple-negative cases was 52%, 43%, 43% and 35%, respectively (p=0.52). Mutational frequencies were: 13% TET2, 11% ASXL1, 6% DNMT3A, 5% SF3B1, 4% CEBPA, 2% TP53, SH2B3, EZH2 and CSF3R and <2% for SETBP1, IDH2, SRSF2, ZRSR2, CBL, NRAS, RUNX1, U2AF1, KIT, PTPN11 and FLT3. "Number of mutations" significantly affected OS (Figure 2) but not MFS or LFS; HR (95% CI) for OS were 6.6 (2.5-17.8) for 3 mutations and 2.2 (1.3-3.9) for one or two mutations. In univariate analysis, survival was adversely affected by CBL, EZH2, SF3B1, SRSF2 and IDH2 mutations. In multivariable analysis, EZH2 and SF3B1 remained significant. Univariate analysis identified SETBP1 and SF3B1 mutations as risk factors for fibrotic progression and EZH2, TP53 and CSF3R mutations for leukemic transformation. Conclusions: "Non-driver" mutations occur in more than 40% of patients with PV or ET; the number of such mutations and presence of certain specific ones likely predict OS, MFS or LFS. Figure 1. Figure 1. Figure 2. Figure 2. Disclosures Pardanani: Stemline: Research Funding.
Momelotinib Treatment-Associated Neuropathy: Prevalence, Risk Factors and Outcome in 100 Patients with Myelofibrosis

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 124 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 1837-1837

10.1182/blood.v124.21.1837.1837

Abstract Background : Momelotinib (a JAK1 and JAK2 inhibitor) induces both anemia and spleen response in patients with myelofibrosis (MF) (Leukemia 2013;27:1322). The favorable effect on anemia was a distinguishing feature for momelotinib, compared to other JAK inhibitors, but the drug was also associated with treatment-emergent peripheral neuropathy (TE-PN). We examined the natural history and risk factors of momelotinib-associated peripheral neuropathy. Methods : The study patients constitute part of a larger phase-1/2 clinical trial (CCL09101; NCT00935987) using momelotinib for the treatment MF. Toxicity grading was according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) v.4.03. Momelotinib capsules (as opposed to the newer tablet formulation used in the currently ongoing phase-3 study) were used in the current study, which represents a sponsor-independent analysis. Results : 100 patients with MF (median age 66 years; 58% males) were treated at the Mayo Clinic between 11/20/09 and 11/10/10. DIPSS-plus (JCO. 2011;29:392) risk distribution was 63% high, 36% intermediate-2 and 1% intermediate-1. 75% of the patients harbored JAK2V617F and 50% abnormal karyotype. Previous treatment included other JAK inhibitors in 21 patients, thalidomide/lenalidomide/pomalidomide in 31 and hydroxyurea or other cytoreductive agents in 55. History of diabetes was documented in 7% of the patients at baseline and 14 (14%) of the patients had symptoms of PN before starting treatment with momelotinib, all of which were grade-1. Momelotinib was initiated at 100 mg/day in 3 patients, 150 mg/day in 21, 150 mg twice-daily in 20, 200 mg/day in 3, 300 mg/day in 47 and 400 mg/day in 6. The maximum momelotinib dose was 150 mg/day in 6 patients, 150 mg twice-daily in 20, 300 mg/day in 68 and 400 mg/day in 6. Treatment duration was <6 months in 12 patients, 6-12 months in 22, 12-24 months in 19 and >24 months in 47. Median follow-up after the institution of protocol drug therapy was 35 months (range 1-49). During this period, TE-PN was documented in 44 (44%) patients; of these, 42 were in patients without baseline neuropathy. TE-PN involved the feet only in 28 patients, hands only in one patient and both feet and hands in 15 patients. Median (range) for the time of onset of TE-PN was 32 weeks (1-132) and duration of TE-PN 11 months (0-40). All 42 newly-emergent PN were grade-1 sensory while the two patients with grade-1 baseline PN progressed to grade-2. Formal neurological evaluation, which was performed in 9 patients, mostly showed length-dependent sensory-motor large and small fiber neuropathy with axonal features. TE-PN resulted in drug discontinuation in 7 patients and reduction in drug dose in 28 patients. Improvement after drug dose reduction was documented in only one patient and in none of those with drug discontinuation. Progression to grade-2 PN was documented in 3 patients. TE- PN was significantly associated with clinical improvement (CI) with 54% incidence in responders vs 30% in non-responders (p=0.02); however, longer treatment duration was also associated with higher prevalence of TE-PN (p=0.03). In univariate analysis, patients with TE-PN lived longer than those without TE-PN (p=0.048); however, significance was lost during multivariable analysis that included either achievement of CI or treatment duration. Neither the initial (p=0.53) nor maximum (p=0.37) momelotinib dose was correlated with TE-PN, which was also not influenced by JAK2V617F (p>0.99), karyotype (p=0.26), history of diabetes (p=0.39) or previous treatment with JAK inhibitor therapy (p=0.7), thalidomide (p=0.24), lenalidomide (p=0.59), pomalidomide (p=0.63) or hydroxyurea (p=0.56). There were no correlations between TE-PN and age (p=0.37), sex (p=0.37), type of MF (p=0.98), DIPSS-plus score (p=0.07), baseline transfusion dependency (p=0.15), constitutional symptoms (p=0.83) or spleen size (p=0.53). TE-PN did not correlate with hematologic (p=0.14) or extramedullary toxicity other than PN (p=0.41) or lipase/amylase abnormalities (p=0.35). Conclusions : Momelotinib-associated neuropathy in MF might not be reversible in the majority of cases but also does not appear to be progressive. We were not able to identify risk factors for TE-PN, other than duration of treatment, which also explains its apparent association with response/survival. We are currently looking into possible correlations with serum thiamine levels. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
A 27-Gene NGS Panel in Primary Myelofibrosis Identifies ASXL1, CBL, RUNX1 and SRSF2 Mutations As Being Unfavorable and Absence of Any Non-Driver Mutation As Being Favorable to Survival

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 350-350

10.1182/blood.v126.23.350.350

Abstract Background : In primary myelofibrosis (PMF), ̴ 88% of patients harbor one of three "driver" mutations, with mutational frequencies of approximately 60%, 22% and 6% for JAK2, CALR and MPL, respectively. Other "non-driver" mutations have also been described in PMF and some of them and their number have been associated with inferior survival (Leukemia. 2014;28:1804). We applied next generation sequencing (NGS) with a broader panel of MPN-relevant genes, in order to identify additional mutations of prognostic relevance as well as obtain additional information regarding the prognostic value of 'number of mutations'. Methods: Targeted capture assays were carried out on bone marrow or whole blood DNA specimens obtained at time of referral for the following genes: TET2, DNMT3A, IDH1, IDH2, ASXL1, EZH2, SUZ12, SRSF2, SF3B1, ZRSR2, U2AF1, PTPN11, Tp53, SH2B3, RUNX1, CBL, NRAS, JAK2, CSF3R, FLT3, KIT, CALR, MPL, NPM1, CEBPA, IKZF, and SETBP1. Paired-end indexed libraries were prepared from individual patient DNA using the NEB Next Ultra Library prep protocol on the Agilent Bravo liquid handler (NEB, Ipswich, MA/Agilent Technologies Inc, Santa Clara, CA). Capture libraries were assembled according to Nimblegen standard library protocol (Roche Nimblegen, Inc, Basel, Switzerland). Base-calling was performed using Illumina's RTA version 1.17.21.3. Genesifter® software was utilized (PerkinElmer, Danvers, Massachusetts) to analyze targeted sequence data. Nucleotide variants were called using the Genome Analysis Toolkit (GATK-Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA). Specific variants were deemed as mutations if they are associated with a hematologic malignancy (as identified by COSMIC database), or if they have not been associated with a dbSNP. Results: 180 PMF patients were evaluated (median age 63 years; 65% males). DIPSS-plus risk distribution was 32% high, 38% intermediate-2, 17% intermediate-1 and 13% low. Driver mutation distribution was 62% JAK2, 22% CALR, 9% triple-negative and 7% MPL. Karyotype was abnormal in 41% of patients and unfavorable in 12%. Mutations other than JAK2, CALR or MPL (i.e. "non-driver" mutations) were seen in 150 (83%) patients including 88% of "triple-negative" cases. 62 (34%) patients harbored one, 55 (31%) two, 16 (9%) three and 17 (10%) four or more. Mutational frequencies were: ASXL1 36%, TET2 18%, SRSF2 17%, U2AF1 17%, ZRSR2 11%, SF3B1 10%, DNMT3A 9%, CEBPA (9%), Tp53 7%, SETBP1 6%, CBL 5%, IDH1/2 5%, SH2B3 4%, CSF3R 4%, NRAS 4%, RUNX1 3% and ≤2% for SUZ12, KIT, PTPN11, NPM1 and EZH2. DIPSS-plus high/intermediate-2 risk patients displayed higher number of mutations (p=0.0004) and higher mutational frequencies for ASXL1 (p=0.02), SRSF2 (p=0.004) and CBL (p=0.02). Associations noted included JAK2 with U2AF1 (p=0.03), unfavorable karyotype with CBL (p=0.01) and normal karyotype with ZRSR2 mutations (p=0.04). At a median follow-up of 4 years, 111 (62%) deaths were documented. For examination of impact on survival, we considered 'number of mutations' and specific mutations with >2% frequency. Accordingly, in univariate analysis, survival was adversely affected by 'number of mutations' (Figure 1) and presence of ASXL1, SRSF2, IDH1/2, U2AF1, RUNX1 and CBL mutations. For multivariable analysis, we considered three categories (zero, 1-3 and ≥4) for number of mutations based on the results from univariate analysis (Figure 1); the results showed ≥4 mutations, 1-3 mutations, RUNX1, CBL, ASXL1 and SRSF2 mutations were independently associated with shortened survival; the respective HR (95% CI) were 4 (1.4-11.1), 3 (1.3-6.8), 2.9 (1.1-8.1), 2.8 (1.3-6.3), 1.8 (1.2-2.7) AND 1.7 (1.03-2.7). When the multivariable analysis was repeated including only the 150 patients with at least one non-driver mutation, the 'number of mutations' was no longer significant (p=0.35) but ASXL1, CBL, RUNX1 and SRSF2 mutations retained their significance. The prognostic relevance of ASXL1 and CBL continued to be apparent even after the addition of DIPSS-plus and driver mutation profile to the multivariable model. Conclusions: Mutations other than JAK2, CALR or MPL occur in more than 80% of patients with PMF, including those with "triple-negative" driver mutational status. The absence of such mutations is independently favorable for survival while the prognostic effect of their presence is influenced by ASXL1, CBL, RUNX1 and SRSF2 mutations. Figure 1. Figure 1. Disclosures Pardanani: Stemline: Research Funding.
In Contemporary Patients with Polycythemia Vera, Rates of Thrombosis and Risk Factors Delineate a New Clinical Epidemiology

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 124 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 1822-1822

10.1182/blood.v124.21.1822.1822

Abstract Background Current risk stratification in Polycythemia Vera (PV), is designed to estimate the likelihood of thrombotic complications. In ECLAP large prospective study of 1638 PV cases diagnosed by Polycythemia Vera Study Group (PVSG) criteria, risk factors were age over 65 years and prior thrombotic events. After the JAK2V617F discovery, diagnosis has undergone substantial revision by the World Health Organization (WHO). Consequently, current risk factors determination should be described in patients diagnosed by the most recent recommendations and requires a large sample size with reliable and sufficiently long clinical course documentation. Accordingly, the current study includes 1545 patients with strictly WHO-defined PV diagnosed and followed-up in seven centers from Italy, Austria and the United States, belonging to the International Working Group for Myeloproliferative Neoplasm (MPN) Research and Treatment (IWG-MRT). Objective and design 1) Describe the rate of thrombosis in this population; 2) Report the sites and frequency of recurrences after a first arterial or venous event; 3) Identify separately risk factors for arterial versus venous thrombosis and develop practically useful prognostic models. Results 1. Presenting features The characteristics of the cohort recruited reflected well the heterogeneity of epidemiologic and clinical features that are found in the routine clinical practice of PV. Arterial and venous thrombosis history before or at diagnosis was documented in 246 (16%) and 114 (7.4%) patients, respectively. The frequencies of arterial and venous thrombosis were lower than those recorded in the ECLAP4 (27% and 11% respectively) but comparable to those reported in the recent Cyto-PV2 (arterial 17%, venous 12%) studies. The discrepancy might be partly related to earlier diagnosis in the post-ECLAP JAK2mutation era. 2. Thrombotic events after diagnosis Median follow-up was 6.9 years and treatment included aspirin (84%) and cytoreductive agents (73%), in addition to phlebotomy. Post-diagnosis total major thrombosis rate was 2.62% pt/yr, lower than reported in the ECLAP trial (4.4% pt/yr) but comparable to the Cyto-PV study (2.7% pt/yr) where management of cardiovascular risk factors was more intensive than in ECLAP. Arterial or venous thrombosis occurred in 184 (12%, rate: 1.59 % pts/yr) and 137 (9%, rate: 1.05 % pts/yr) patients, respectively. In addition, prior arterial events were associated in 75% of cases with subsequent arterial events and in the remaining 25% with venous thrombosis including splanchnic vein events. Moreover, patients with prior venous events had recurrences in venous district in 61% of cases and in the arterial district in 39%. 3. Risk factors for arterial versus venous thrombosis and prognostic models In multivariable analysis, arterial thrombosis was predicted by previous arterial event (HR 1.7, 95% CI 1.2-2.4), and hypertension (HR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2-2.2) while predictors of venous events were previous venous thrombosis (HR 2.6, 95% CI 1.5-4.4), and age ≥ 65 years (HR 1.7, 95% CI 1.2-2.5). We used the above-mentioned risk factors in order to develop prognostic models allowing to identify patients at different probability to develop arterial or venous thrombosis. For arterial thrombosis, the absence of previous arterial thrombosis and hypertension defined lower-risk (rate 1.27 % pts/yr) while the presence of one or both identified higher-risk patients (rate 2.04 % pts/yr). Previous venous event and/or age ≥ 65 years identified patients at higher risk of venous (rate 1.62 % pts/yr) thrombosis and, if absent, patients at lower risk (rate 0.78 % pts/yr). Conclusion The overall rate of thrombosis was half than in ECLAP and should be considered in future clinical trials. Of note, patients with a prior venous thrombosis had a more frequent subsequent recurrence in the venous district but a proportion of them (40%) had also arterial events; conversely, recurrences after previous arterial event were also registered in the leg and non-leg veins in 30 % of cases, indicating that in PV, venous and arterial thrombosis may share some common pathogenetic mechanisms. These findings may have practical implications and suggests antiplatelet therapy and anticoagulant therapy as the favorite choice to prevent arterial and venous thrombosis, respectively, but also suggests studies of antithrombotic drug combination. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Platelet Transmission Electron Microscopy and Flow Cytometry in the Diagnosis of Congenital/Hereditary Qualitative or Quantitative Platelet Disorders

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 3476-3476

10.1182/blood.v126.23.3476.3476

Abstract Background Congenital/hereditary qualitative platelet disorders (CQPD) can be classified by platelet count (eg, normal or decreased) and platelet size as well as by functional defect. Based on mean platelet volume (MPV), congenital thrombocytopenias (CT) are classified as macro-thrombocytopenias (eg, Bernard-Soulier syndrome [BSS], MYH-9 [myosin heavy chain 9, non-muscle]-associated thrombocytopenias, gray platelet syndrome [GPS], etc.); microthrombocytopenias (eg, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome and variants); and those with normal platelet size. CQPDs with normal platelet count include Glanzmann thrombasthenia (GT), dense granule storage pool disorders (DG-SPD) including Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome (HPS), platelet secretion disorders and many others. Diagnosis has relied on platelet counting and sizing, blood smear light microscopy, platelet aggregation (agg) and platelet function analyzer (PFA-100) studies. Platelet transmission electron microscopy (PTEM) and flow cytometry can provide supplementary information and molecular analysis is also evolving. The objective of this study was to determine the roles of platelet transmission electron microscopy (PTEM) and flow cytometry in the diagnosis of CQPD and CT. Methods In this retrospective cohort study, after IRB approval, the electronic medical record system was queried for patients (pt) with a confirmed CQPD or CT seen at Mayo Clinic between 2000 and 2015. A detailed chart review was undertaken. Results 54 pt (64% female) met our study criteria; median age was 32 years (range 1 day to 81 years). 18/54 (33%) pt had macrothrombocytopenia: BSS 4 (7%); MYH-9 10 (19%); gray platelet syndrome 4 (7%). 36/54 (66%) had normal MPV: Glanzmann thrombasthenia 6 (11%); storage pool disorders including DG-SPD 10 (19%) and HPS 2 (3%), mild alpha granule deficiency 3 (6%) and York platelet syndrome 4 (7%); platelet secretion disorders 4 (7%); ANKRD26 mutation 3 (6%); congenital amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia 1 (2%); GATA-1 mutation 1 (2%); RUNX-1 mutation 1 (2%); and Jacobsen syndrome 1 (2%). 44 pt (81%) had a positive bleeding history: epistaxis 52%, cutaneous bleeding 57%, gastrointestinal bleeding 21% and menorrhagia 54%; 10 pt (19%) had a negative bleeding history. Results of standard and esoteric platelet testing are summarized in Table 1. Diagnosis in the 10 pt with glycoprotein deficiency (BSS or GT) was established by agg; flow cytometry was confirmatory but not necessary. Of the 23 pt with SPD, 5 had a negative bleeding history; 4 pt had normal agg and PFA-100 and were diagnosed exclusively by PTEM. In this group, the abnormalities on platelet aggregation and PFA were variable and PTEM allowed for a better definition of the specific abnormalities. For MYH-9 patients, PTEM confirmed leukocyte inclusions that had already been identified on light microscopy. PTEM was the only diagnostic modality able to identify the abnormality in York platelet syndrome. In 5/54 (9%) genetic testing was necessary for diagnosis (GATA-1, ANKRD26 and RUNX-1) Conclusion In this cohort, standard platelet assays established the diagnosis in the large majority of CQPD and CT. PTEM was essential for confirmation in DG-SPD, mild alpha granule deficiency and York platelet syndrome and useful in combination with molecular testing to establish a diagnosis in selected cases. Guidance on selection of patients for such specialized testing requires further study. Table 1. Results of standard and esoteric platelet testing for 54 patients with congenital qualitative platelet disorders and/or thrombocytopenia Disorder n (%) Platelet aggregation PFA PTEM Flow cytometry Confirmation by genetics Done Abnormal Done Abnormal Done Abnormal Done Abnormal Glanzmann thrombasthenia 6 (11) 6 6 5 5 1 0 3 3 0 Bernard-Soulier syndrome & variants 4 (7) 4 4 4 4 3 0 4 4 0 MYH-9 related disorders 10 (19) 7 2 8 3 5 5 4 2 5 Dense granule deficiency and HPS 12 (22) 12 8 12 8 12 12 4 0 0 Alpha granule deficiency* 7 (13) 7 4 7 6 7 7 4 4 1 York platelet syndrome 4 (7) 1 0 1 1 4 4 1 1 0 TXA2 or PG synthesis/receptor defect 4 (7) 4 4 4 3 3 0 3 0 0 CATM 1 (2) 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 1 ANKRD26 3 (6) 3 3 3 2 3 3 3 3 3 GATA-1 1 (2) 0 - 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 RUNX-1 1 (2) 1 0 1 1 0 - 0 - 1 Jacobsen syndrome 1 (2) 1 0 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 MYH-9: myosin heavy chain 9, non-muscle (MHY-9) associated thrombocytopenia, HPS: Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome, TXA2: thromboxane A2, PG: prostaglandin CATM: congenital amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia. * Includes gray platelet syndrome Disclosures Pardanani: Stemline: Research Funding.