Impact of initial biopsy type on the time to final diagnostic biopsy in patients with follicular lymphoma and suspected histologic transformation

Diagnosis of histologic transformation (HT) of follicular lymphoma (FL) requires tissue biopsy. While surgical biopsy represents the gold standard, less invasive procedures such as fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) and core needle biopsy (CNB) are frequently performed. In this retrospective multi-institutional study including 269 patients with FL and suspected HT, the median time from initial clinical suspicion to final diagnostic biopsy was similar whether the workup began with FNAB, CNB, or surgical biopsy (4, 9, and 6 days, respectively; p=.27), despite more subsequent biopsies performed following initial FNAB. Periprocedural complications were uniformly minimal. Biopsy-proven HT was more common in the initial surgery group and in workups including positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT). Our findings, derived from US academic centers with specialized procedural and pathology expertise, suggest that FNAB, CNB, and surgical biopsy are all viable initial diagnostic procedures that can inform clinical decision-making in select FL patients with suspected HT.

First-in-human data of ALLO-501A, an allogeneic chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy and ALLO-647 in relapsed/refractory large B-cell lymphoma (R/R LBCL): ALPHA2 study

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Background: Allogeneic CAR T cell therapy addresses logistical/manufacturing challenges inherent in autologous (auto) CAR T therapy. ALLO-501A, which uses Cellectis technologies, is an allogeneic anti-CD19 CAR T cell product whose a) disrupted TCRα gene may reduce GvHD risk, and b) edited CD52 gene may permit use of ALLO-647 (a humanized anti-CD52 mAb) to selectively deplete host T cells. Methods: The ongoing ALPHA2 study is a single-arm, open-label, 2 phase study of ALLO-501A in non-HLA matched patients (pts) with R/R LBCL and ≥2 prior lines of therapy. Prior auto CD19 CAR T therapy is allowed if tumors remain CD19+. Following lymphodepletion (LD) with ALLO-647 (60 mg or 90 mg), fludarabine 30 mg/m2/d x 3d (Flu), and cyclophosphamide 300 mg/m2/d x 3d (Cy), escalating doses of ALLO-501A (40 [DL1] or 120 [DL2] x 106 viable CAR T cells) were administered. Retreatment was allowed for PD or SD with suboptimal CAR T expansion. Pts who had ≥SD at D28 could receive a second dose in a consolidation cohort. Phase 1 assessed safety/tolerability and cell kinetics of escalating doses of ALLO-501A following LD. Results: By 1/15/21, 11/11 enrolled pts received ALLO-647 (60 mg: n=6; 90 mg: n=5). Mean duration from enrollment to start of therapy was 6 days. After LD, 1 and 9 pt(s) were treated with ALLO-501A at DL1 and DL2, respectively; 1 pt developed CNS lymphoma and was not treated. Of 10 pts treated, 1 pt received retreatment and 4 pts were enrolled in the consolidation cohort. Pts had a median age of 60 years; 8 were ≥ stage III at diagnosis, 5 had IPI scores ≥3, and 3 had baseline LDH > 2x ULN. Median number of prior therapies was 3 (range 2 – 7); 3 pts had received auto CD19 CAR T cell therapy. 4/8 evaluable pts had rapidly PD at study entry. Median FU was 1.7 months. No dose modifications were required and no pt experienced DLTs. The most common AEs were anemia, leukopenia, neutropenia and thrombocytopenia (73%); and lymphopenia (64%). No GvHD or ICANS were reported. CRS was seen in 2 (18%) pts, both Grade < 3. Infusion-related reactions, all grade <3, were observed in 4 (36%) pts. D28 response data are available for 8 pts: 1 died of PD before D28; 4 additional pts had PD, including 2 who progressed 2 and 3 mos. after auto CAR T; 1 had SD; and 2 (both DL2) had CR. Of those in CR, 1 had peak ALLO-501A expansion at D14, persistence until D42, and ongoing CR at 4 mo; 1, with a 4-mo response to prior auto CAR T, had peak expansion at D28 and remains in ongoing CR at D56 after ALLO-501A with pending persistence. Conclusions: This dose escalation cohort contained heavily pretreated, actively progressing pts, some of whom had failed auto CAR T. Preliminary data suggest an acceptable safety profile following ALLO-501A and ALLO-647 and early signs of efficacy in LBCL. Enrollment into the consolidation cohort is ongoing; updated clinical/biomarker data of resistance and clinical activity will be presented. Clinical trial information: NCT04416984.

CALGB 50801 (Alliance): PET adapted therapy in bulky stage I/II classic Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL)

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Background: Bulky disease is associated with inferior outcomes in patients with early stage cHL. Historically, most patients (pts) receive chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy (RT), which is associated with long-term toxicity. We tested a PET-adapted approach to reduce the need for RT in pts with early PET-negative (PET-) disease and escalate therapy in pts with PET-positive (PET+) disease. Methods: Eligible pts aged 18-60 years (yrs) had stage IA-IIB cHL with disease bulk >10 cm or >.33 max intrathoracic diameter on chest x-ray. Pts received 2 cycles of doxorubicin-bleomycin-vinblastine-dacarbazine (ABVD) followed by centrally reviewed PET. PET- was defined as Deauville of 1-3. Pts who achieved a negative PET scan (PET2-) received 4 additional cycles of ABVD. PET2+ pts received 4 cycles of escBEACOPP plus 30 Gy involved-site radiation therapy. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) estimated from PET2. With 93 pts and assuming 30% PET2+, there was 80% power to rule out that PFS of PET2+ pts was substantially inferior to PFS of PET2- pts (HR 4.1, 3-yr PFS 40% vs 80%) if the true PFS of PET2+ pts was closer to that of PET2- pts (HR 2.29, 3-yr PFS 60% vs 80%) with one-sided alpha=0.15. With few events and mature follow-up, we report results 3 yrs after the last pt was enrolled. Results: Between May 2010 and October 2017, 101 pts enrolled. Excluding 6 ineligible pts (3 without baseline DLCO, 2 did not meet definition of bulk, 1 stage IIIB) and 1 pt without PET2, 94 were evaluable. 78% of pts were PET2- (73 PET2-, 21 PET2+). Median age was 30 yrs (range: 18 to 58) and 53.2% were female. Distribution of stage was: 1A - 7.4%, IB - 2.1%, IIA – 39.4%, IIB - 51.1%; 61.9% PET2+ pts had stage IIB disease. Therapy was generally well tolerated. Grade > 3 neutropenia occurred in 86% of pts with 8% of PET2- and 10% of PET2+ with grade > 3 febrile neutropenia. 3-yr PFS estimates were 93.1% (95% CI: 87.4-99.1%) in PET2- pts, 89.7% (95% CI: 77.2-100.0%) in PET2+ pts (HR=1.01, 85% upper bound 2.32), and 92.3% (95% CI: 87.0-98.0%) for all pts. The protocol-defined primary endpoint was met as the PFS hazard ratio for PET2+ vs PET2- was less than 4.1 (one sided p=0.04). With a median follow-up of 5.5 yrs, 3 PET2- pts died (HL, anaplastic astrocytoma and COPD) and 1 PET2+ died of progressive disease. 3-yr overall survival (not a primary or secondary outcome of the study) estimates were 98.6% (95% CI: 95.9-100.0%) in PET2- pts, 94.4% (95% CI: 85.4-100.0%) in PET2+ pts (HR: 1.2, 95% CI: 0.12, 11.60), and 97.7% (95% CI: 94.7-100.0%) for all pts. Conclusions: Excellent PFS outcomes were observed in all pts using a PET-adapted approach that allowed omission of RT in 78% of pts. In addition, PET2+ pts treated with escalation to BEACOPP and consolidative RT did not have inferior outcomes. Support: U10CA180821, U10CA180882; https://acknowledgments.alliancefound.org ; ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01118026. Clinical trial information: NCT01118026.

Brentuximab vedotin plus doxorubicin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine in patients with advanced-stage, classical Hodgkin lymphoma: A prespecified subgroup analysis of high-risk patients from the ECHELON-1 study

Approximately one-third of patients diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma presenting with Stage IV disease do not survive past 5 years. We present updated efficacy and safety analyses in high-risk patient subgroups, defined by Stage IV disease or International Prognostic Score (IPS) of 4-7, enrolled in the ECHELON-1 study that compared brentuximab vedotin plus doxorubicin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine (A + AVD) versus doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine (ABVD) as first-line therapy after a median follow-up of 37.1 months. Among patients treated with A + AVD (n = 664) or ABVD (n = 670), 64% had Stage IV disease and 26% had an IPS of 4-7. Patients with Stage IV disease treated with A + AVD showed consistent improvements in PFS at 3 years as assessed by investigator (hazard ratio [HR], 0.723; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.537-0.973; p = 0.032). Similar improvements were seen in the subgroup of patients with IPS of 4-7 (HR, 0.588; 95% CI, 0.386-0.894; p = 0.012). The most common adverse events (AEs) in A + AVD-treated versus ABVD-treated patients with Stage IV disease were peripheral neuropathy (67% vs. 40%) and neutropenia (71% vs. 55%); in patients with IPS of 4-7, the most common AEs were peripheral neuropathy (69% vs. 45%), neutropenia (66% vs. 55%), and febrile neutropenia (23% vs. 9%), respectively. Patients in high-risk subgroups did not experience greater AE incidence or severity than patients in the total population. This updated analysis of ECHELON-1 shows a favorable benefit-risk balance in high-risk patients.

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia/Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma, Version 4.2020, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) are characterized by a progressive accumulation of leukemic cells in the peripheral blood, bone marrow, and lymphoid tissues. Treatment of CLL/SLL has evolved significantly in recent years because of the improved understanding of the disease biology and the development of novel targeted therapies. In patients with indications for initiating treatment, the selection of treatment should be based on the disease stage, patient's age and overall fitness (performance status and comorbid conditions), and cytogenetic abnormalities. This manuscript discusses the recommendations outlined in the NCCN Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of patients with CLL/SLL.

ADCs, BiTEs, CARs, and Small Molecules: A New Era of Targeted Therapy in Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Novel immunotherapies and small molecular inhibitors are transforming our approach to previously treated and newly diagnosed patients across the spectrum of non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHLs). Anti-CD19 CAR T cells are now indicated for the treatment of relapsed/refractory aggressive B-cell lymphomas after at least two previous lines of therapy in which durable remissions are achieved in approximately 40% of previously incurable patients. Second-line chemoimmunotherapy remains the standard of care at first relapse, but poor outcomes with conventional treatment in this setting creates an appealing rationale for earlier use of CAR T cells, which is currently under investigation, along with even earlier use in selected high-risk patients in the frontline setting. Other emerging immunotherapies include antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), such as polatuzumab vedotin for multiple-relapsed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in combination with bendamustine-rituximab. Multiple bispecific antibodies that bring malignant B cells in contact with effector T cells appear promising in early clinical trials and will likely emerge as off-the-shelf immunotherapy options. Chemotherapy-free small molecule-based regimens are increasingly available for mantle cell (MCLs) and follicular lymphomas (FLs). Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors (BTKi) now represent standard second-line therapy for MCL and are being investigated in combination and as initial therapy. Lenalidomide-rituximab is an active regimen in both FL and MCL and may be used in either relapsed/refractory or previously untreated disease. Three PI3K inhibitors are approved for multiple-relapsed FL and can induce durable remissions in patients with chemotherapy- and rituximab-refractory disease. Additional emerging targeted therapies include BCL2 inhibition in MCL and EZH2 inhibition in FL.

A virtual resiliency program for lymphoma survivors: helping survivors cope with post-treatment challenges

Objectives To adapt and test the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of an 8-week resiliency group program for posttreatment lymphoma survivors.Design and outcomes. This is an exploratory mixed methods study. Phase 1: We conducted qualitative interviews to inform program adaptation. Phase 2: Using a single-arm pilot design, we assessed program feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy (exploratory outcomes: stress coping, uncertainty intolerance, distress). We also examined the feasibility of collecting hair cortisol samples.Results. Phase 1: Survivors reported feeling socially isolated as they grappled with lingering symptoms that interfered with their return to normalcy. Fears about recurrence triggered bodily hypervigilance. Survivors desired wellness programs that 1) target their whole-body experience, 2) promote social connectedness, and 3) manage fear of recurrence. Phase 2: Thirty-seven survivors enrolled. Participants completed a median of 7/8 sessions, and 76.9% completed ≥6/8 sessions; 65% provided a hair sample. Survivors demonstrated improvements in stress coping (d = .67), uncertainty tolerance (d = .71), and anxiety (d = .41) at program completion.Conclusions. Findings suggest promising feasibility and efficacy of this program in addressing posttreatment survivorship challenges, particularly fears of uncertainty. A cancer care model that adopts early integration of this program posttreatment has the potential to improve survivors' emotional, social and physical well-being.

Axicabtagene Ciloleucel in the Non-Trial Setting: Outcomes and Correlates of Response, Resistance, and Toxicity

PURPOSE

Axicabtagene ciloleucel (axi-cel) was approved by the Food and Drug Administration for relapsed aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma in part on the basis of durable remission rates of approximately 40% in a clinical trial population. Whether this efficacy, and the rates of toxicity, would be consistent in a postcommercial setting, with relaxed eligibility criteria and bridging therapy, is unknown. This study describes the efficacy and safety correlates and outcomes in this setting.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

One hundred twenty-two patients from 7 medical centers in the United States were treated with axi-cel and were included in a modified intent-to-treat (mITT) analysis. Seventy-six patients (62%) were ineligible for the ZUMA-1 trial. Response and toxicity rates, duration of response (DOR), survival, and covariates are described on the basis of the mITT population. Correlative studies on blood and tumor samples were performed to investigate potential biomarkers of response and resistance.

RESULTS

Median follow-up was 10.4 months. In the mITT population, the best overall and complete response (CR) rates were 70% and 50%, respectively. Median DOR and progression-free survival (PFS) were 11.0 and 4.5 months in all patients and were not reached (NR) in CR patients. Median overall survival (OS) was NR; 1-year OS was 67% (95% CI, 59% to 77%). Although response rates were similar in the ZUMA-1-eligible and ZUMA-1-ineligible groups (70% v 68%), there was a statistically significant improvement in CR rate (63% v 42%, P = .016), DOR (median, NR v 5.0 months; P = .014), PFS (median, NR v 3.3 months; P = .020), and OS (1-year OS, 89% v 54%; P < .001) in patients who were ZUMA-1 eligible. Rates of grade ≥ 3 cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicty were 16% and 35%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Axi-cel yields similar rates of overall response and toxicity in commercial and trial settings, although CR rates and DOR were more favorable in patients eligible for ZUMA-1.

Lisocabtagene maraleucel for patients with relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphomas (TRANSCEND NHL 001): a multicentre seamless design study

BACKGROUND

Lisocabtagene maraleucel (liso-cel) is an autologous, CD19-directed, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell product. We aimed to assess the activity and safety of liso-cel in patients with relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphomas.

METHODS

We did a seamless design study at 14 cancer centres in the USA. We enrolled adult patients (aged ≥18 years) with relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphomas. Eligible histological subgroups included diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, high-grade B-cell lymphoma with rearrangements of MYC and either BCL2, BCL6, or both (double-hit or triple-hit lymphoma), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma transformed from any indolent lymphoma, primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma, and follicular lymphoma grade 3B. Patients were assigned to one of three target dose levels of liso-cel as they were sequentially tested in the trial (50 × 10⁶ CAR⁺ T cells [one or two doses], 100 × 10⁶ CAR⁺ T cells, and 150 × 10⁶ CAR⁺ T cells), which were administered as a sequential infusion of two components (CD8⁺ and CD4⁺ CAR⁺ T cells) at equal target doses. Primary endpoints were adverse events, dose-limiting toxicities, and the objective response rate (assessed per Lugano criteria); endpoints were assessed by an independent review committee in the efficacy-evaluable set (comprising all patients who had confirmed PET-positive disease and received at least one dose of liso-cel). This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02631044.

FINDINGS

Between Jan 11, 2016, and July 5, 2019, 344 patients underwent leukapheresis for manufacture of CAR⁺ T cells (liso-cel), of whom 269 patients received at least one dose of liso-cel. Patients had received a median of three (range 1-8) previous lines of systemic treatment, with 260 (97%) patients having had at least two lines. 112 (42%) patients were aged 65 years or older, 181 (67%) had chemotherapy-refractory disease, and seven (3%) had secondary CNS involvement. Median follow-up for overall survival for all 344 patients who had leukapheresis was 18·8 months (95% CI 15·0-19·3). Overall safety and activity of liso-cel did not differ by dose level. The recommended target dose was 100 × 10⁶ CAR⁺ T cells (50 × 10⁶ CD8⁺ and 50 × 10⁶ CD4⁺ CAR⁺ T cells). Of 256 patients included in the efficacy-evaluable set, an objective response was achieved by 186 (73%, 95% CI 66·8-78·0) patients and a complete response by 136 (53%, 46·8-59·4). The most common grade 3 or worse adverse events were neutropenia in 161 (60%) patients, anaemia in 101 (37%), and thrombocytopenia in 72 (27%). Cytokine release syndrome and neurological events occurred in 113 (42%) and 80 (30%) patients, respectively; grade 3 or worse cytokine release syndrome and neurological events occurred in six (2%) and 27 (10%) patients, respectively. Nine (6%) patients had a dose-limiting toxicity, including one patient who died from diffuse alveolar damage following a dose of 50 × 10⁶ CAR⁺ T cells.

INTERPRETATION

Use of liso-cel resulted in a high objective response rate, with a low incidence of grade 3 or worse cytokine release syndrome and neurological events in patients with relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphomas, including those with diverse histological subtypes and high-risk features. Liso-cel is under further evaluation at first relapse in large B-cell lymphomas and as a treatment for other relapsed or refractory B-cell malignancies.

FUNDING

Juno Therapeutics, a Bristol-Myers Squibb Company.

NCCN Guidelines Insights: B-Cell Lymphomas, Version 3.2019

Diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (DLBCLs) and follicular lymphoma (FL) are the most common subtypes of B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphomas in adults. Histologic transformation of FL to DLBCL (TFL) occurs in approximately 15% of patients and is generally associated with a poor clinical outcome. Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitors have shown promising results in the treatment of relapsed/refractory FL. CAR T-cell therapy (axicabtagene ciloleucel and tisagenlecleucel) has emerged as a novel treatment option for relapsed/refractory DLBCL and TFL. These NCCN Guidelines Insights highlight important updates to the NCCN Guidelines for B-Cell Lymphomas regarding the treatment of TFL and relapsed/refractory FL and DLBCL.

Diagnosis and Management of Castleman Disease

Castleman disease is a heterogeneous nonmalignant lymphoproliferative disorder. Major distinctions include unicentric versus multicentric presentation; hyaline vascular, plasmacytic, or mixed pathology; and HHV8-associated (typically HIV-positive) versus idiopathic disease. At the NCCN 2019 Annual Congress: Hematologic Malignancies, Dr. Jeremy S. Abramson stated that rituximab is preferred as initial therapy for HHV8-positive disease, and chemotherapy can be added for patients with fulminant disease (antiretrovirals should always be used as well for those who are HIV-positive). Siltuximab is the preferred frontline therapy for idiopathic disease.

Patient selection for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy for aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas

CAR T-cells have transformed the therapeutic landscape for patients with relapsed/refractory aggressive B-cell lymphomas. Currently, three CAR T-cell products are approved or soon to be approved: axicabtagene ciloleucel, tisagenlecleucel, and lisocabtagene maraleucel. These products differ in construct, manufacturing, clinical trial design and toxicity profile. Patient selection for CAR T-cells, and the ideal product for a given patient, involves myriad considerations including age, fitness, prior therapies, comorbid diseases, organ function, logistics of administration, turnaround time, and institutional familiarity. This article reviews the proper patient and product selection for the management of patients with relapsed/refractory aggressive B-cell lymphomas.

NCCN Guidelines Insights: Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia/Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma, Version 2.2019

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is generally characterized by an indolent disease course. Histologic transformation (also known as Richter's transformation) to more aggressive lymphomas, such as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma or Hodgkin lymphoma, occurs in approximately 2% to 10% of patients and is associated with a poor prognosis. These NCCN Guidelines Insights discuss the recommendations for the diagnosis and management of patients with histologic transformation.

Multicenter Study of Risk-Adapted Therapy With Dose-Adjusted EPOCH-R in Adults With Untreated Burkitt Lymphoma

PURPOSE

Burkitt lymphoma is an aggressive B-cell lymphoma curable with dose-intensive chemotherapy derived from pediatric leukemia regimens. Treatment is acutely toxic with late sequelae. We hypothesized that dose-adjusted etoposide, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, prednisone, and rituximab (DA-EPOCH-R) may obviate the need for highly dose-intensive chemotherapy in adults with Burkitt lymphoma.

METHODS

We conducted a multicenter risk-adapted study of DA-EPOCH-R in untreated adult Burkitt lymphoma. Low-risk patients received three cycles without CNS prophylaxis, and high-risk patients received six cycles with intrathecal CNS prophylaxis or extended intrathecal treatment if leptomeninges were involved. The primary endpoint was event-free survival (EFS), and secondary endpoints were toxicity and predictors of EFS and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

Between 2010 and 2017, 113 patients were enrolled across 22 centers, and 98 (87%) were high risk. The median age was 49 (range, 18-86) years, and 62% were ≥ 40 years. Bone marrow and/or CSF was involved in 29 (26%) of patients, and 28 (25%) were HIV positive. At a median follow-up of 58.7 months, EFS and OS were 84.5% and 87.0%, respectively, and EFS was 100% and 82.1% in low- and high-risk patients. Therapy was equally effective across age groups, HIV status, and International Prognostic Index risk groups. Involvement of the CSF identified the group at greatest risk for early toxicity-related death or treatment failure. Five treatment-related deaths (4%) occurred during therapy. Febrile neutropenia occurred in 16% of cycles, and tumor lysis syndrome was rare.

CONCLUSION

Risk-adapted DA-EPOCH-R therapy is effective in adult Burkitt lymphoma regardless of age or HIV status and was well tolerated. Improved therapeutic strategies for adults with CSF involvement are needed (funded by the National Cancer Institute; ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01092182).

Results of a completed phase I study of LAM-002 (apilimod dimesylate), a first-in-class phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate 5 kinase (PIKfyve) inhibitor, administered as monotherapy or with rituximab or atezolizumab to patients with previously treated follicular lymphoma or other B-cell cancers

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Background: LAM-002 is a selective inhibitor of PIKfyve that disrupts lysosomal homeostasis, inducing cytotoxicity in B-cell lymphoma models as monotherapy or with anti-CD20 or anti-PDL1 antibodies (Gayle et al., Blood 2017;129(13):1768). Methods: In this study, patients received LAM-002 orally 2-3 times per day (BID or TID) in a 3+3 escalation. Additional patients received LAM-002 125 mg BID as monotherapy; with rituximab 375 mg/m2 intravenously (IV) and or subcutaneously weekly (Q1W) x 4 → Q8W x 4; or atezolizumab 1200 mg IV Q3W until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Pharmacokinetics (PK) were assessed for 8 hours postdose on Days 1 and 8. Efficacy was evaluated Q6-12W. Results: The study enrolled 62 patients (M:F n = 32/30); median [range] age = 69 [46-89] years; with diagnoses (n) of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (25), follicular lymphoma (19), marginal zone lymphoma (8), mantle cell lymphoma (5), or chronic lymphocytic leukemia (5) to receive LAM-002 alone (n) at 50 mg BID (3), 100 mg BID (8), 150 mg BID (8), 75 mg TID (4), or 125 mg BID (20); LAM-002/rituximab (12); or LAM-002/atezolizumab (7). During LAM-002 dose-ranging (50 mg BID → 100 mg BID → 150 mg BID → 75 mg TID → 125 mg BID) transient, reversible nausea and/or diarrhea occurred at 150 mg BID and 75 mg TID, resulting in a LAM-002 recommended Phase 2 dosing regimen (RP2DR) of 125 mg BID. Among 39 patients receiving LAM-002, 125 mg BID, alone or in combination for up to 22 cycles (1.9 years), adverse events were typically low-grade. LAM-002 PK showed rapid absorption, dose proportionality, minimal accumulation, and no substantive changes with rituximab or atezolizumab coadministration. In patients with follicular lymphoma and median [range] prior therapies = 3 [1-9] treated with the RP2DR, objective response rates were 2/7 (29%; 1 complete response [CR], 1 partial response [PR]) with LAM-002, 5/8 (63%; 1 CR, 4 PRs) with LAM-002/rituximab, and 2/2 (100%; 2 PRs) with LAM-002/atezolizumab. Conclusions: LAM-002, the first clinical PIKfyve inhibitor, is safe alone or with full-dose anti-CD20 or anti-PD-L1 inhibition. LAM-002 does not cause the myelosuppressive or immune adverse events associated with lenalidomide or PI3K inhibitors. Promising efficacy supports registration-directed Phase 2/3 testing of LAM-002 monotherapy and combination therapy for patients with previously treated follicular lymphoma. Clinical trial information: NCT02594384 .

Initial results of a multicenter, investigator initiated study of MRD driven time limited therapy with zanubrutinib, obinutuzumab, and venetoclax

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Background: Venetoclax (Ven)-Obinutuzumab (O) is approved for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) achieving frequent undetectable minimum residual disease (uMRD; Fischer NEJM 2019). Ven-Ibrutinib is synergistic with frequent uMRD but with grade >3 neutropenia in 33-48% patients (pts; Tam ASH 2019; Jain NEJM 2019). Zanubrutinib (B) is a highly specific BTK inhibitor that demonstrated 100% occupancy in lymphoid tissues, so may be preferred to combine with OVen. We hypothesize that treatment (tx) with BOVen using an MRD driven discontinuation strategy will achieve frequent uMRD and durable responses. Methods: In this multicenter, investigator initiated phase 2 trial (NCT03824483), eligible pts had previously untreated CLL requiring tx per iwCLL, ECOG PS <2, ANC >1, PLT >75 (ANC >0, PLT >20 if due to CLL). BOVen was administered in 28D cycles: B 160 mg PO BID starting D1; O 1000 mg IV D1 or split D1-2, 8, 15 of C1, D1 of C2-8; Ven ramp up initiated C3D1 (target 400 mg QD). Tx duration was determined by a prespecified uMRD endpoint (min 8 cycles). MRD was assessed in peripheral blood (PB; flow cytometry, sensitivity >10−4) starting C7D1 then every 2 cycles. Once PB uMRD was determined and confirmed in bone marrow (BM), tx continued 2 additional cycles. Adverse events (AE) were assessed per CTCAE v5. Median (med) time to uMRD (primary endpoint) was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: The study accrued 39 pts (3-10/19): med age 59 years (23-73), 3:1 male, CLL IPI >4 26/39 (67%), unmutated IGHV 28/39 (72%), 17p del/ TP53 mutated 4/39 (10%), all pts were evaluable for toxicity with 37 evaluable for efficacy. At a med follow up of 8 months (mo; 3-10), 25/37 (68%) pts achieved PB uMRD. Med time to PB uMRD is 6 mo (4-8+). Another 8/37 (22%) had PB MRD < 0.1%. Of 25 with PB uMRD, 19 had BM uMRD with 10/19 completing 2 additional cycles and discontinued; 3 had BM MRD (all <0.02%); 3 pending. The most common tx emergent AEs were neutropenia (49%), infusion related reaction (41%), bruising (39%), and diarrhea (39%). Grade ≥3 AEs in ≥5% pts were neutropenia (13%), thrombocytopenia (5%), rash (5%), and pneumonia (5%). Of 17 pts at high risk for TLS on C1D1, 2 cycles of BO reduced TLS risk to low/medium at Ven initiation in 15 (88%). No pts had laboratory/clinical TLS (Howard). Conclusions: BOVen is well tolerated and achieves rapid uMRD: currently 68% PB uMRD and 51% BM uMRD with limited follow up (to be updated on presentation). Ten (27%) have discontinued treatment thus far. The value of MRD directed treatment duration will be evaluated with continued follow up. Clinical trial information: NCT03824483 .

Characterization of cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and neurological events (NEs) in the phase I TRANSCEND NHL 001 trial of lisocabtagene maraleucel (liso-cel) for patients (pts) with relapsed/refractory (R/R) large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL)

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Background: Clinical studies of liso-cel show low incidences of severe CRS and NEs. Pts with high tumor burden and inflammation are at higher risk of CRS and NEs (Borrega, Hemasphere 2019). Here, we characterize the presenting symptoms, timing, and management of CRS and NEs in pts with R/R LBCL treated with liso-cel in TRANSCEND NHL 001 (NCT02631044). A deeper understanding of CRS/NEs after liso-cel treatment may help clinicians identify and manage these toxicities. Methods: Pts with R/R LBCL and ≥2 lines of therapy received liso-cel after lymphodepletion (LD) with fludarabine and cyclophosphamide. Bridging therapy was allowed for pts with PET-positive disease before LD (Abramson, ASH 2019 #241). Investigators were educated on prospectively identifying liso-cel–related NEs and CRS, which were collected and graded per NCI CTCAE v4.03 (NEs) or 2014 Lee criteria (CRS). Timing and severity of individual CRS/NE symptoms and interventions were also collected. Results: The analysis included 269 pts (median age, 63 y): 38% had sum of perpendicular diameters ≥50 cm2 or lactate dehydrogenase ≥500 U/L, and 59% received bridging therapy. CRS and NEs had delayed onset (median, 5 and 9 d, respectively) and a low incidence of grade (Gr) ≥3 events (CRS 2%; NE 10%). CRS occurred before NEs in most pts and was Gr 1/2 at onset in all but 2 pts (Table). The most common CRS symptoms were pyrexia (40%), hypotension (20%), and tachycardia (18%). Overall, 20% of pts received tocilizumab and/or corticosteroids for CRS (10% tocilizumab only; 2% corticosteroids only; 8% both); 3% received vasopressors. The most common NE symptoms were confusional state (11%), tremor (9%), and aphasia (8%); most were low grade. A total of 17% of pts received tocilizumab and/or corticosteroids for NEs (13% corticosteroids only; < 1% tocilizumab only; 3% both); < 1% received vasopressors. Overall, 4% of pts were admitted to the ICU for CRS and/or NEs. Additional analyses on timing of intervention and type/severity of initial symptoms will be presented. Conclusions: In pts with high-risk, aggressive R/R LBCL, liso-cel treatment was associated with a low incidence of severe CRS/NEs, late onset of mostly low-grade events at presentation, and low use of tocilizumab/corticosteroids. Clinical trial information: NCT02631044 . [Table: see text]

Outpatient treatment with lisocabtagene maraleucel (liso-cel) across a variety of clinical sites from three ongoing clinical studies in relapsed/refractory (R/R) large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL)

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Background: Currently approved CAR T cell therapies are generally administered as inpatient (inpt) treatment at university medical centers due to concerns about frequency, onset, severity, and management of AEs, including cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and neurologic events (NEs). We sought to characterize whether patients (pts) could be safely monitored in the outpatient (outpt) setting after receiving liso-cel, an investigational, CD19-directed CAR T cell product administered at equal target doses of CD8+ and CD4+ CAR+ T cells, across university and non-university sites in TRANSCEND NHL 001 (NCT02631044), OUTREACH (NCT03744676), and PILOT (NCT03483103). Methods: Eligible pts had R/R LBCL after systemic chemoimmunotherapy; moderately impaired organ function was allowed. For outpt infusion of liso-cel, pts were required to receive safety monitoring education, have a caregiver and stay within 1 h travel to site of care for 30 d post-treatment. All study sites had a multidisciplinary CAR T cell team and standard operating procedures for toxicity monitoring and management. Results: At data cutoff, 53 pts had received liso-cel on Study Day 1 and were monitored as outpts (university, n = 33; non-university, n = 20), including pts ≥65 y of age (n = 23) and with high tumor burden (SPD ≥50 cm2; n = 16). Any grade CRS and NEs were reported in 18 (34%) and 14 pts (26%), respectively. Severe CRS and/or NEs occurred in only 2 pts (4%) and were reversible. Median (range) time to onset of CRS and NEs was 5 (2–9) and 8.5 (3–22) d, respectively. Tocilizumab and/or corticosteroids for treatment of CRS and/or NEs were required in 8 pts (15%). Overall, 30 pts (57%) required hospitalization post-treatment, with a median (range) time to hospitalization post-treatment of 5.5 (2–22) d; 9 pts (17%) were hospitalized Study Day 4 or earlier. Two pts required ICU-level care. There were no grade 5 treatment-emergent AEs. Safety in pts monitored as outpts was comparable across types of sites. Overall response rate was 81% (95% CI, 68–91). Safety and efficacy were consistent with data from inpts across the 3 studies (N = 270). Conclusions: Pts with R/R LBCL were successfully treated with liso-cel and monitored for CAR T cell-related toxicity in the outpt setting across different types of sites. Incidences of severe CRS, NEs, and early hospitalization were low; 43% of pts did not require hospitalization. A larger dataset will be presented, including comparisons of outpts vs inpts and sites of care. Clinical trial information: NCT02631044 (TRANSCEND NHL 001), NCT03744676 (OUTREACH), NCT03483103 (PILOT) .

Toxicity burden in older patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) receiving bendamustine with rituximab (BR) or ibrutinib (IB) regimens: Alliance A041202

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Background: IB is a Bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitor that showed superior progression-free survival compared with BR in CLL patients (pts) 65 years or older in a randomized phase 3 trial (Woyach et al, NEJM 2018). Pts receiving IB had higher rates of atrial fibrillation (AFIB) and hypertension (HTN); BR pts had higher rates of hematologic toxicity. Differences in treatment duration for BR (6 cycles) and IB (until progression) complicated adverse event (AE) comparisons. Here we use an exploratory approach to compare toxicity burden between arms and provide assessment of AFIB, HTN and infections (INF). Methods: AEs were reported for each of cycles 1-6 and then every 3 cycles until progression or nonprotocol CLL therapy. Only grade (gr) 3-4 AEs were reported thereafter until death. A simple global AE score was calculated for each pt by summing grades of all gr 1-4 AEs and dividing by the number of cycles over which AEs were submitted. Results: 537 pts began therapy (176 BR, 361 IB). 68% on BR completed all 6 cycles. At a median follow-up of 38 months, 64% remained on IB. Treatment discontinuation for AE occurred in 10% and 14% of BR and IB pts. Overall, median AE score was 1.8 (interquartile range (IQR) 0.9-3.3) and 3.8 (IQR 2.3-5.9) in BR and IB arms (p < 0.01). For cycles 1-6, median AE score was 6.2 (IQR 3.8-9.0) and 4.8 (IQR 3.0-7.2) in BR and IB arms (p < 0.01). In the IB arm, median AE score post 6 cycles decreased significantly to 3.4 (IQR 1.9-5.6) (p < 0.01). Gr 3 or higher cumulative rates of AFIB, HTN, and INF over time appear in the table. 100 pts (26/176 BR, 74/361 IB) had 137 severe INF (39% respiratory: 16 BR, 37 IB; 25% skin: 3 BR, 31 IB; 12% GU: 3 BR, 13 IB; 25% other: 12 BR, 22 IB). There were 7 gr 5 INF (3 BR, 4 IB), none confirmed fungal. Conclusions: There was no difference in treatment discontinuation rates for AE. Overall toxicity burden was significantly higher for IB, although IB toxicity burden decreased after 6 cycles. Toxicity burden was significantly higher in cycles 1-6 for pts receiving BR. Risk of severe AFIB, HTN, and INF is highest in the first year of IB. A simple AE score provides valuable information, especially when evaluating regimens of varying length. Clinical trial information: NCT01886872 . Support: U10CA180821, U10CA180882, U24CA196171; https://acknowledgments.alliancefound.org ; Pharmacyclics; ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01886872. [Table: see text]

Phase I study of the Bcl-2 inhibitor venetoclax with DA-EPOCH-R as initial therapy for aggressive B-cell lymphomas

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Background: Dose-adjusted (DA) EPOCH-R is a frontline treatment for aggressive B-cell lymphomas. Bcl-2 is associated with chemoresistance due to BCL2 gene rearrangement or protein overexpression in lymphomas and is antagonized by BH3 mimetic venetoclax (ven). We conducted a phase I study combining ven with DA-EPOCH-R in aggressive B-cell lymphomas. Methods: This phase 1 study used Bayesian optimal interval design with dose expansion. Eligible patients (pts) were 18 years with newly diagnosed diffuse large B-cell (DLBCL), primary mediastinal, and high grade B-cell lymphoma (HGBCL) with double hit (DHL) or not otherwise specified (NOS). Ven was dosed at 400 mg (DL1), 600 mg (DL2), and 800 mg (DL3) daily for 10 days with 6 cycles of DA-EPOCH-R. A subsequent cohort received ven 600 mg daily for 5 days (DL2B). Toxicities were graded by CTCAE v4.0 and response assessed by Lugano criteria. Dose limiting toxicity (DLT) period was cycle 1 and primarily included grade (gr) ≥3 neutropenia on cycle 2 day 1, gr ≥4 febrile neutropenia/thrombocytopenia, and gr ≥3 nausea, vomiting, diarrhea despite supportive care. Results: 30 pts enrolled with median age 64 (24-79), and 50% female. Ann Arbor stage was III-IV in 23. IPI was high risk in > 50%. Diagnosis was DHL (15), DLBCL NOS (13), and HGBCL NOS (2). 18 had MYC and 14 had BCL2 rearrangements. Bcl-2 was expressed ≥50% by IHC in 21/26 with data. There were no DLTs in DL1 (3 pts) or DL2 (9 pts). 1/6 had DLT in DL3 (gr 4 thrombocytopenia). Ven dose reductions occurred in subsequent cycles in 4 (2 in DL2; 2 in DL3). Of 18 in DL1-3, EPOCH was escalated above level 1 in 1 and de-escalated below level 1 in 7. Because of delays and ven dose reductions in DL2-3 due in part to cytopenias, infections and GI toxicities, we accrued DL2B. In DL2B, 0/12 pts had DLTs or ven dose reductions. EPOCH was escalated above level 1 in 4 and de-escalated below level 1 in 3. 1 died of sepsis during cycle 3. Most common gr 3-4 toxicities across all dose levels were cytopenias; febrile neutropenia occurred in 57%. Most common non-hematologic toxicities of all grades were hypocalcemia, nausea, diarrhea, hypokalemia and fatigue. ORR (N = 30) ITT was 97% with 27 (90%) complete and 2 (7%) partial responses; 1 was not evaluable. Follow up is ongoing. Of 15 DHL, ORR and CRR were 93% and 80%. Conclusions: We identified ven 600 mg for 5 days per cycle as RP2D with DA-EPOCH-R. DL2B was well tolerated and required no ven dose reductions. Further efficacy and safety is being evaluated in Alliance 51701, DA-EPOCH-R/R-CHOP in DH/double expressor lymphomas, using the dosing regimen defined by this study. Clinical trial information: NCT03036904 .