Utility of subsequent conventional dose chemotherapy in relapsed/refractory transplant-eligible patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma failing platinum-based salvage chemotherapy

Up to 60% of patients with relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) do not respond to second-line (salvage) chemotherapy and hence are not offered autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation (AHCT). The utility of further salvage chemotherapy in an attempt to proceed with AHCT remains undefined. The authors reviewed 201 patients with DLBCL relapsed/refractory to anthracycline-based chemotherapy who received first-line salvage chemotherapy containing cis-platinum. Of the 120 non-responders to first-line platinum-based salvage chemotherapy, 73 received second-line salvage chemotherapy. The response rate to second-line salvage chemotherapy was 14%. Factors predicting lack of response were progression on primary therapy (p = 0.007), abnormal lactate dehydrogenase findings (p = 0.0027) and tumor bulk (p = 0.013) at second progression. Eight patients who responded received AHCT and appeared to have comparable survival to those transplanted after one salvage regimen. The authors conclude that the utility of second-line salvage chemotherapy is low, and that it is best reserved for patients demonstrating initial anthracycline sensitivity and low tumor burden.

The relationship between absolute lymphocyte count with PFS in patients with Hodgkin's lymphoma undergoing autologous hematopoietic cell transplant

Previous reports in Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) patients undergoing autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation (AHCT) have demonstrated a significant association between the absolute lymphocyte count at day 15 (ALC-15) with survival. To evaluate this finding further, we analyzed 146 patients with relapsed/refractory HL who underwent AHCT to evaluate the relationship between lymphocyte counts at apheresis and at two time points (days 15 and 90) after AHCT with PFS. We found no association between the ALC-15 and the ALC-90 with PFS. We found lymphocyte counts at apheresis and disease sensitive to salvage chemotherapy were predictive of PFS. In conclusion, our study does provide some support for the theory that the immune system may be important in disease control but further and more detailed studies in this area are required.

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells for the repair of central nervous system injury

Transplantation of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) into the injured brain or spinal cord may provide therapeutic benefit. Several models of central nervous system (CNS) injury have been examined, including that of ischemic stroke, traumatic brain injury and traumatic spinal cord injury in rodent, primate and, more recently, human trials. Although it has been suggested that differentiation of MSCs into cells of neural lineage may occur both in vitro and in vivo, this is unlikely to be a major factor in functional recovery after brain or spinal cord injury. Other mechanisms of recovery that may play a role include neuroprotection, creation of a favorable environment for regeneration, expression of growth factors or cytokines, vascular effects or remyelination. These mechanisms are not mutually exclusive, and it is likely that more than one contribute to functional recovery. In light of the uncertainty surrounding the fate and mechanism of action of MSCs transplanted into the CNS, further preclinical studies with appropriate animal models are urgently needed to better inform the design of new clinical trials.

Outcome following multiple lines of salvage chemotherapy prior to autologous stem cell transplant for relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL)

8120

Background: The standard of care for chemosensitive relapsed or refractory DLBCL is autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT). There is no standard approach for patients (pts) whose disease fails to respond to platinum-based salvage chemotherapy (pSC) although pts who undergo further salvage chemotherapy to demonstrate chemosensitivity may benefit from ASCT (Chen, et al, BMT 2002). We analyzed the overall response rate (ORR) to each line of salvage therapy for pts with relapsed or refractory DLBCL and the impact of the number of salvage regimens necessary to demonstrate chemosensitivity on overall and progression-free survival (OS and PFS) post-ASCT. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed our computerized database and charts between Jan 1/99 - Dec 31/05 and identified 203 pts relapsed after or refractory to anthracycline-based chemo treated with pSC. Pts typically received 2–3 cycles of pSC to assess chemotherapy sensitivity. Responding patients received etoposide 60 mg/kg and melphalan 160 mg/m2 supported by autologous PBSCs. Pts with stable or progressive disease following first line salvage chemotherapy (SC1) were offered alternate non-cross resistant second-line salvage chemotherapy (SC2) and proceeded to ASCT if chemosensitive. Results: Pt characteristics: Median age at time of salvage chemotherapy: 52 years (range 21–65); primary refractory: 48%; advanced stage disease at salvage: 50%; prior rituximab: 17%; prior radiation 26%. 119/203 pts did not respond to SC1, 81 pts received SC2 and 10 pts received 3 salvage regimens (SC3). ORRs to salvage were: SC1: 40%, SC2: 14%, SC3: 10%. Pts able to proceed to ASCT were: SC1: 37%, SC2: 14%, SC3: 0. With a median follow-up of 1.8 years, the 2-year OS post ASCT for the SC1 and SC2 groups was 69% and 56% respectively. The 2-year PFS post ASCT for the SC1 and SC2 groups were 58% and 40%. Conclusions: The ORR to platinum-based SC is low in this cohort of primary refractory/relapsed patients (40%), and only 14% of pts who received SC2 after pSC responded. Although some have prolonged PFS following SC2 and ASCT, additional strategies should be investigated in these patients.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Late treatment mortality and secondary cancers after autologous stem cell transplant for relapsed or refractory Hodgkin lymphoma (HL)

8016

Background: Late treatment-related mortality and second cancers have an important influence on the long-term outcome of patients (pts) with HL. The incidence of treatment failure and causes of death were evaluated in pts with advanced HL receiving high-dose therapy and ASCT, to understand the impact of late events on overall survival (OS). Methods: From Dec 1986 to Nov 2005, 323 pts with relapsed/refractory HL after primary chemotherapy (plus radiation [RT]: 32%) received salvage chemotherapy to best response, followed by etoposide 60 mg/kg day -4 and melphalan 160–180 mg/m2 day -3 supported by autologous bone marrow (46%), mobilized peripheral blood stem cells (49%) or both (5%)on day 0; 24% received involved field RT post-ASCT. Risk of treatment failure and second cancer was estimated using competing risks methods. Results: Patient Characteristics: male: 61%; median age 33 years (range16–67). Number of salvage regimens pre-ASCT: 1: 72%; 2: 25%. Disease status post-salvage chemotherapy: CR 28%, PR 66%. After a median follow-up of 4.7 years post-ASCT (range 1–17), 174 pts (54%) have experienced treatment failure (relapse or treatment related death) and 154 pts (48%) have died, 75% following relapse and 20% from toxicity without relapse. Of the 30 deaths without relapse, 30% occured >5 years post-ASCT. Failure free survival at 3 and 10 years is 50% (95% CI, 44–55%) and 40% (33–46), and overall survival is 68% (63–73) and 39% (33- 46), respectively. There have been 29 second cancers (17 AML/MDS, 12 solid tumors) in pts alive without relapsed HL. The probability of a second cancer is 4.9% (2.8–7.8) at 3 years and 12% (8–17%) at 10 years. The hazard rates for second malignancy, leukemia and solid tumors for each 10-year age increment are 1.9 (p=0.0001), 1.9 (0.001) and 1.8 (0.03), respectively. Only 4 pts have relapsed beyond 5 years post- ASCT but the cumulative incidence of treatment-related death (from toxicity or second cancers) continues to increase from 9% (6–13) at 3 years to 15% (11–20) 10 yrs post-ASCT. Conclusions: In this single-institution series of uniformly treated patients with relapsed/refractory HL, late relapse of disease is uncommon, but late toxicities have a significant and ongoing impact on failure-free survival.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Pleural effusions in patients treated with dasatinib: Results from two institutions, risk factors and management

17503

Background: Dasatinib (SPRYCEL, formerly BMS354825) is a multi-targeted kinase inhibitor that has been shown to be very effective in the therapy of imatinib-resistant and -intolerant Ph-positive CML/ALL patients, frequently resulting in hematologic and cytogenetic remissions. Therapy with kinase inhibitors has been limited to some extent by fluid retention, the type of which is dependent on the individual drug. Pleural effusions have been relatively more common with dasatinib. We report on the experience at two large teaching hospitals - incidence, risk factors and management. Methods: 27 patients were treated on 5 BMS Phase 2 Studies (2CP, 1AP, 1BP-M, 1BP-L, 1ALL) - 17 CP, 5 AP, 3 BP-M, 2 BP-L/ALL. All patients started on a dose of 70mg BID of dasatinib. Results: In all 13 patients developed effusions. All but 1 were Grade 2; grades 2–4 are symptomatic and require intervention. Of the 14 who did not, 9 were either withdrawn from study because of CML progression (3) or dose-reduced because of hematological toxicity (6). The development of effusions was more common in patients with more advanced disease (BC>AP>CP), in those with previous lung problems (smoking, infections), and in those maintained on starting doses of dasatinib. Effusions could develop even 1–2 years (1>100d, 2>200, 2>300d, 1>500d) after starting therapy often triggered by a lung infection. Effective management included ongoing combinations of diuretics, temporary drug discontinuation, dose reduction, and more recently a once daily drug dosing schedule (Hochhaus et al , Blood 2006, 108: 166a). One patient required thoracentesis and chest tube. Conclusions: Dose monitoring and adjustments and management of the effusions have permitted continuation of the therapy in 10 of the 13 patients with good hematological outcomes. A change in dose schedule will be most effective.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Phase II monotherapy study of YM155, a novel survivin suppressant, administered by 168-hour continuous infusion in previously treated hormone refractory prostate cancer (HRPC)

5135

Background: In a PC-3 tumor cell model YM155 inhibited survivin mRNA transcription and survivin protein expression and showed potent (nM) anti-proliferation activity with strong signs of tumor regression. In a phase I study, two highly refractory HRPC patients exhibited a > 50% reduction of PSA from baseline. Methods: Patients with metastatic HRPC who received prior taxane chemotherapy were eligible. The primary endpoint is PSA response rate (decline by ≥ 50%). Other endpoints include objective tumor response by RECIST and evaluation of toxicity. A two stage Simon study design required one response in stage I (N=13) and 3 responses in stage II (N=14). If 4 responses are achieved then an additional 33 pts (N=60) will be enrolled to further characterize the efficacy and safety. Patients are considered evaluable if they complete 2 cycles. YM155 is given as a 168 hour continuous infusion every three weeks (1 cycle) at a dose of 4.8 mg/m2/day. Results: First two stages are enrolled with treatment ongoing. Data on 32 pts is provided. Median age is 67 y/o (range 53 - 81) with ECOG PS of 0 - 2. All but one patient received at least one prior taxane containing regimen. Two patients are PSA responders to date. One achieved response at cycle 2 (currently at cycle 3) and one at cycle 6 (currently at cycle 10). The median number of cycles is 3 (range 1 - 10). Two patients discontinued due to adverse events; in only one patient was the event (fever) considered related to study drug. Five/32 patients reported grade 3, 4, or 5 AE considered related to drug (coagulopathy secondary to coumadin therapy followed by intracranial hemorrhage, fatigue, URI, decreased Hgb, thrombocytopenia). Seven/32 patients remain on drug including the two responders. Conclusions: The preliminary data of YM155 in HRPC demonstrates activity and has an acceptable toxicity profile.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Minimal criteria for defining multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells. The International Society for Cellular Therapy position statement

The considerable therapeutic potential of human multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) has generated markedly increasing interest in a wide variety of biomedical disciplines. However, investigators report studies of MSC using different methods of isolation and expansion, and different approaches to characterizing the cells. Thus it is increasingly difficult to compare and contrast study outcomes, which hinders progress in the field. To begin to address this issue, the Mesenchymal and Tissue Stem Cell Committee of the International Society for Cellular Therapy proposes minimal criteria to define human MSC. First, MSC must be plastic-adherent when maintained in standard culture conditions. Second, MSC must express CD105, CD73 and CD90, and lack expression of CD45, CD34, CD14 or CD11b, CD79alpha or CD19 and HLA-DR surface molecules. Third, MSC must differentiate to osteoblasts, adipocytes and chondroblasts in vitro. While these criteria will probably require modification as new knowledge unfolds, we believe this minimal set of standard criteria will foster a more uniform characterization of MSC and facilitate the exchange of data among investigators.

Feasibility and safety of autotransplants with noncryopreserved marrow or peripheral blood stem cells: a systematic review

The objective of this systematic review is to examine the feasibility and safety of autologous noncryopreserved stem-cell transplants. This technique avoids the cost of establishing and maintaining a cryopreservation facility and may be of value for transplant centers in regions with limited economic resources. The primary outcome was the graft failure rate. In addition, a detailed description of the high-dose therapy regimens employed was undertaken. Secondary outcomes were transplant-related mortality and neutrophil and platelet engraftments times. Sixteen well-conducted nonrandomized studies met the eligibility criteria. Only two cases of graft failure (0.36%) occurred among 560 assessable patients receiving high-dose therapy and autotransplant for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Hodgkin's lymphoma, multiple myeloma, germ-cell tumors and acute leukemias. The most traditional high-dose schedules were used, although often modified to shorter regimens. High-dose melphalan appeared especially useful given its short half-life and was used to treat multiple myeloma by most groups. Secondary outcomes were comparable to those reported in the most relevant studies addressing standard (cryopreserved) autotransplant. According to this study, the use of autologous noncryopreserved hematopoietic progenitors to support patients undergoing high-dose therapy is feasible and safe.

Minimal criteria for defining multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells. The International Society for Cellular Therapy position statement

The considerable therapeutic potential of human multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) has generated markedly increasing interest in a wide variety of biomedical disciplines. However, investigators report studies of MSC using different methods of isolation and expansion, and different approaches to characterizing the cells. Thus it is increasingly difficult to compare and contrast study outcomes, which hinders progress in the field. To begin to address this issue, the Mesenchymal and Tissue Stem Cell Committee of the International Society for Cellular Therapy proposes minimal criteria to define human MSC. First, MSC must be plastic-adherent when maintained in standard culture conditions. Second, MSC must express CD105, CD73 and CD90, and lack expression of CD45, CD34, CD14 or CD11b, CD79alpha or CD19 and HLA-DR surface molecules. Third, MSC must differentiate to osteoblasts, adipocytes and chondroblasts in vitro. While these criteria will probably require modification as new knowledge unfolds, we believe this minimal set of standard criteria will foster a more uniform characterization of MSC and facilitate the exchange of data among investigators.

Outcome of salvage therapy for relapsed or refractory peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL), anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL)

6544

Background: Compared to patients with ALCL and DLBCL, PTCL patients have a lower response and higher relapse rate following anthracycline-based chemotherapy. However, in the case of relapsed or primary refractory disease, it is unclear if response to salvage treatment and survival are similarly inferior. Methods: Between 01/01/1995 and 12/30/2004, 45 patients with PTCL, 21 with ALCL, and 171 with DLBCL were referred to our institution for consideration of ASCT. The majority of patients (70%) received a platinum-based salvage regimen. Responding patients then received high-dose etoposide and melphalan followed by autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT). Results: The three groups were similar in age (median 53, range: 19–66), but PTCL patients had more advanced stage disease (III or IV) at salvage than ALCL and DLBCL (71 vs. 61 vs. 48%, p=0.03). Response rates to salvage chemotherapy were similar: 53% for PTCL, 57% for ALCL, and 53% for DLBCL (p=0.94). For T-cell (PTCL and ALCL) patients, there was a trend to better response if a platinum-based regimen was given (61 vs. 35%, p=0.06). Post-transplant, 9/21 PTCL, 3/11 ALCL, and 41/88 DLBCL patients relapsed (43 vs. 27 vs. 46%, p=0.47). Two-year event-free survival (EFS) rates were 28% (95% CI: 14–42%) for PTCL, 45% (23–67%) for ALCL, and 45% (37–53%) for DLBCL (p=0.068). Event-free and overall survival for all patients, and for those who proceeded to ASCT, are shown in the table . Conclusions: Two-year EFS is inferior for patients with relapsed/refractory PTCL treated with the intention of proceeding to ASCT, compared to ALCL and DLBCL, as is 2-year OS rate. However, PTCL patients had similar response to primarily platinum-based salvage chemotherapy, and achieved similar outcome post-ASCT. These findings suggest that strategies to improve the outcome of PTCL patients may include changes to first-line treatment and salvage regimens.

[Table: see text]

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Clarification of the nomenclature for MSC: The International Society for Cellular Therapy position statement

The plastic-adherent cells isolated from BM and other sources have come to be widely known as mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). However, the recognized biologic properties of the unfractionated population of cells do not seem to meet generally accepted criteria for stem cell activity, rendering the name scientifically inaccurate and potentially misleading to the lay public. Nonetheless, a bona fide MSC most certainly exists. To address this inconsistency between nomenclature and biologic properties, and to clarify the terminology, we suggest that the fibroblast-like plastic-adherent cells, regardless of the tissue from which they are isolated, be termed multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells, while the term mesenchymal stem cells is used only for cells that meet specified stem cell criteria. The widely recognized acronym, MSC, may be used for both cell populations, as is the current practice; thus, investigators must clearly define the more scientifically correct designation in their reports. The International Society for Cellular Therapy (ISCT) encourages the scientific community to adopt this uniform nomenclature in all written and oral communications.

Short-wavelength infrared tuneable filters on HgCdTe photoconductors

The design, micro-fabrication, and electronic and optical performance of a tuneable short-wavelength infrared Fabry-Pérot microresonator on a mercury cadmium telluride photoconductor is presented. The maximum processing temperature of 125 degrees C has negligible effect on the electronic and optical performance of photoconductor test structures. Maximum responsivity, effective carrier lifetime and detectivity are 60x103 VW-1, 2x10-5 s and 8x1010 cmHz1/2W-1, respectively. The maximum effective carrier lifetime and specific detectivity are in good agreement with the theoretical maxima. Uncooled device operation is possible since responsivity is observed not to improve with thermo-electric cooling. Spectral tuning of the micro-filters is demonstrated over the wavelength range 1.7 to 2.2 mum using drive voltages up to 8 V, with the full-width-half-maximum of the resonance approximately 100 nm. Membrane deflection can be up to 40% of the cavity width.

Autologous stem cell transplantation in multiple myeloma patients <60 vs >/=60 years of age

The role of autologous stem cell transplantation (AuSCT) in older multiple myeloma patients is unclear. Using data from the Autologous Blood and Marrow Transplant Registry, we compared the outcome of 110 patients >/=the age of 60 (median 63; range 60-73) years, undergoing AuSCT with that of 382 patients <60 (median 52; range 30-59) years. The two groups were similar except that older patients had a higher beta(2)-microglobulin level at diagnosis (P=0.016) and fewer had lytic lesions (P=0.007). Day 100 mortality was 6% (95% confidence interval 4-9) and 1-year treatment-related mortality (TRM) was 9% (6-13) in patients <60 years, compared with 5% (2-10) and 8% (4-14), respectively, in patients >/=60 years. The relapse rate, progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in the two groups were also similar. Multivariate analysis of all patients identified only an interval from diagnosis to AuSCT >12 months and the use of two prior chemotherapy regimens within 6 months of AuSCT as adverse prognostic factors. Our results indicate that AuSCT can be safely performed in selected older patients: the best results were observed in patients undergoing AuSCT relatively early in their disease course.

Myeloablative conditioning regimens for AML allografts: 30 years later

During the last three decades, several myeloablative conditioning regimens have been used for AML allografts. In this review, we systematically examine the data from studies reporting on myeloablative conditioning regimens for AML allografts. High-dose busulfan combined with cyclophosphamide (BuCy) and cyclophosphamide in combination with total body irradiation (CyTBI) are the two most commonly used conditioning regimens for AML allografts. From the available data, there are no significant differences in survival with these two regimens. A small benefit of decreased relapse rate with CyTBI is counterbalanced by a nonsignificant increase in treatment-related mortality. The incidence of veno-occlusive disease is significantly higher in patients treated with BuCy. Therapeutic monitoring of busulfan was not reported in any of the studies comparing the regimens. Either of the regimens can be used for AML allografts, and the choice may ultimately depend on local availability and expertise. Further improvements may be possible from modifications of the standard regimens. Data from these latter studies seem to be encouraging, but are not based on comparative randomized trials.

Long-term outcome after intensive therapy with etoposide, melphalan, total body irradiation and autotransplant for acute myeloid leukemia

Intensive therapy and autologous blood and marrow transplantation (ABMT) is an established post-remission treatment for acute myeloid leukemia (AML), although its exact role remains controversial and few data are available regarding longer-term outcomes. We examined the long-term outcome of patients with AML transplanted at a single center using uniform intensive therapy consisting of etoposide, melphalan and TBI. In all, 145 patients with AML underwent ABMT: 117 in first remission, 21 in second remission and seven beyond second remission. EFS and OS were significantly predicted by remission status (P<0.0001). For transplantation in first remission, 8 year EFS and OS were 55% (95% CI, 44-64%) and 62% (95% CI, 50-72%), respectively. By multivariate analysis, only age (P=0.04) and cytogenetic risk group (P=0.006) influenced OS. For patients transplanted in second remission, 8 year EFS and OS were 30% (95% CI, 9-55%) and 36% (95% CI, 13-60%), respectively. No pre-transplant variables significantly predicted outcome. None of the seven patients who underwent ABMT beyond second remission or in early relapse were long-term survivors. ABMT can provide long-term antileukemic control for patients with AML in first remission. For patients in second remission approximately 30% can achieve cure with ABMT, and this option may be preferable to alternate donor allogeneic stem cell transplantation.