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Barbanti MC, Appleby N, Kesavan M, Eyre TA. Cellular Therapy in High-Risk Relapsed/Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and Richter Syndrome. Front Oncol 2022; 12:888109. [PMID: 35574335 PMCID: PMC9095984 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.888109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the development of highly effective, targeted inhibitors of B-cell proliferation and anti-apoptotic pathways in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), these treatments are not curative, and many patients will develop either intolerance or resistance to these treatments. Transformation of CLL to high-grade lymphoma—the so-called Richter syndrome (RS)—remains a highly chemoimmunotherapy-resistant disease, with the transformation occurring following targeted inhibitors for CLL treatment being particularly adverse. In light of this, cellular therapy in the form of allogenic stem cell transplantation and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy continues to be explored in these entities. We reviewed the current literature assessing these treatment modalities in both high-risk CLL and RS. We also discussed their current limitations and place in treatment algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Chiara Barbanti
- Department of Clinical Haematology, Oxford Cancer and Haematology Centre, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Oncology, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Niamh Appleby
- Department of Clinical Haematology, Oxford Cancer and Haematology Centre, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Oncology, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Murali Kesavan
- Department of Clinical Haematology, Oxford Cancer and Haematology Centre, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Oncology, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Toby Andrew Eyre
- Department of Clinical Haematology, Oxford Cancer and Haematology Centre, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Oncology, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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2
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Agathangelidis A, Vlachonikola E, Davi F, Langerak AW, Chatzidimitriou A. High-Throughput immunogenetics for precision medicine in cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 84:80-88. [PMID: 34757183 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is characterized by an extremely complex biological background, which hinders personalized therapeutic interventions. Precision medicine promises to overcome this obstacle through integrating information from different 'subsystems', including the host, the external environment, the tumor itself and the tumor micro-environment. Immunogenetics is an essential tool that allows dissecting both lymphoid cancer ontogeny at both a cell-intrinsic and a cell-extrinsic level, i.e. through characterizing micro-environmental interactions, with a view to precision medicine. This is particularly thanks to the introduction of powerful, high-throughput approaches i.e. next generation sequencing, which allow the comprehensive characterization of immune repertoires. Indeed, NGS immunogenetic analysis (Immune-seq) has emerged as key to both understanding cancer pathogenesis and improving the accuracy of clinical decision making in oncology. Immune-seq has applications in lymphoid malignancies, assisting in the diagnosis e.g. through differentiating from reactive conditions, as well as in disease monitoring through accurate assessment of minimal residual disease. Moreover, Immune-seq facilitates the study of T cell receptor clonal dynamics in critical clinical contexts, including transplantation as well as innovative immunotherapy for solid cancers. The clinical utility of Immune-seq represents the focus of the present contribution, where we highlight what can be achieved but also what must be addressed in order to maximally realize the promise of Immune-seq in precision medicine in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Agathangelidis
- Centre for Research and Technology Hellas, Institute of Applied Biosciences, Thessaloniki, Greece; Department of Biology, School of Science, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Elisavet Vlachonikola
- Centre for Research and Technology Hellas, Institute of Applied Biosciences, Thessaloniki, Greece; Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Frederic Davi
- Department of Hematology, APHP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière and Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Anton W Langerak
- Department of Immunology, Laboratory Medical Immunology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Anastasia Chatzidimitriou
- Centre for Research and Technology Hellas, Institute of Applied Biosciences, Thessaloniki, Greece; Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala 75236, Sweden.
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3
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Sánchez R, Ayala R, Martínez-López J. Minimal Residual Disease Monitoring with Next-Generation Sequencing Methodologies in Hematological Malignancies. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20112832. [PMID: 31185671 PMCID: PMC6600313 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20112832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Ultra-deep next-generation sequencing has emerged in recent years as an important diagnostic tool for the detection and follow-up of tumor burden in most of the known hematopoietic malignancies. Meticulous and high-throughput methods for the lowest possible quantified disease are needed to address the deficiencies of more classical techniques. Precision-based approaches will allow us to correctly stratify each patient based on the minimal residual disease (MRD) after a treatment cycle. In this review, we consider the most prominent ways to approach next-generation sequencing methodologies to follow-up MRD in hematological neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Sánchez
- Servicio de Hematología y Hemoterapia. Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, 28041 Madrid, Spain.
- Hematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, CNIO, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Rosa Ayala
- Servicio de Hematología y Hemoterapia. Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, 28041 Madrid, Spain.
- Hematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, CNIO, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
- Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Joaquín Martínez-López
- Servicio de Hematología y Hemoterapia. Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, 28041 Madrid, Spain.
- Hematological Malignancies Clinical Research Unit, CNIO, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
- Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain.
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4
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Choi MY, Wang HY, Kipps TJ. SOHO State of the Art Updates and Next Questions: The Conundrum in Assessing the Therapy Response of Patients With Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. CLINICAL LYMPHOMA MYELOMA & LEUKEMIA 2019; 19:321-325. [PMID: 31204237 DOI: 10.1016/j.clml.2019.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In 2018, the International Workshop on Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (iwCLL) updated the guidelines for diagnosis, indications for treatment, response assessment, and supportive management of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Included were definitions for response, which incorporated consideration of the significance of minimal residual disease. Here we discuss the clinical significance of complete response or partial response, as defined in the 2018 iwCLL guidelines, and the relative value of assessing for minimal residual disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Y Choi
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center, La Jolla, CA
| | - Huan-You Wang
- Department of Pathology, UC San Diego Health System, La Jolla, CA
| | - Thomas J Kipps
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center, La Jolla, CA.
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5
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Rein LA, Sung AD, Rizzieri DA. New approaches to manipulate minimal residual disease after allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Int J Hematol Oncol 2013; 2. [PMID: 24303095 DOI: 10.2217/ijh.13.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Minimal residual disease (MRD) is a complex topic that has been studied extensively in hematologic malignancies given its clinical implications related to prognosis. However, methods to monitor and treat MRD, especially after stem cell transplantation, are not well defined and vary in different disease processes. Alternative transplant strategies, such as reduced-intensity conditioning, have altered the way we assess and address MRD after transplantation. Development of new diagnostic tools have allowed for higher sensitivity and specificity of testing. Both targeted chemotherapeutic agents and immunotherapies have been developed to treat MRD in hopes of improving patient outcomes. This article aims to address ways to define and manipulate MRD specifically after stem cell transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Am Rein
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies & Cellular Therapy, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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6
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Minimal residual disease quantification using consensus primers and high-throughput IGH sequencing predicts post-transplant relapse in chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Leukemia 2013; 27:1659-65. [PMID: 23419792 PMCID: PMC3740398 DOI: 10.1038/leu.2013.52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2012] [Revised: 02/06/2013] [Accepted: 02/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Quantification of minimal residual disease (MRD) following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) predicts post-transplant relapse in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). We utilized an MRD-quantification method that amplifies immunoglobulin heavy chain (IGH) loci using consensus V and J segment primers followed by high-throughput sequencing (HTS), enabling quantification with a detection limit of one CLL cell per million mononuclear cells. Using this IGH–HTS approach, we analyzed MRD patterns in over 400 samples from 40 CLL patients who underwent reduced-intensity allo-HCT. Nine patients relapsed within 12 months post-HCT. Of the 31 patients in remission at 12 months post-HCT, disease-free survival was 86% in patients with MRD <10−4 and 20% in those with MRD ⩾10−4 (relapse hazard ratio (HR) 9.0; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.5–32; P<0.0001), with median follow-up of 36 months. Additionally, MRD predicted relapse at other time points, including 9, 18 and 24 months post-HCT. MRD doubling time <12 months with disease burden ⩾10−5 was associated with relapse within 12 months of MRD assessment in 50% of patients, and within 24 months in 90% of patients. This IGH–HTS method may facilitate routine MRD quantification in clinical trials.
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7
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Toze CL, Dalal CB, Nevill TJ, Gillan TL, Abou Mourad YR, Barnett MJ, Broady RC, Forrest DL, Hogge DE, Nantel SH, Power MM, Song KW, Sutherland HJ, Smith CA, Narayanan S, Young SS, Connors JM, Shepherd JD. Allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia: outcome in a 20-year cohort. Br J Haematol 2012; 158:174-185. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2141.2012.09170.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2011] [Accepted: 03/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia L. Toze
- Division of Hematology; Leukemia/BMT Program of British Columbia; Vancouver General Hospital; BC Cancer Agency; University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC
| | - Chinmay B. Dalal
- Division of Hematology; Leukemia/BMT Program of British Columbia; Vancouver General Hospital; BC Cancer Agency; University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC
| | - Thomas J. Nevill
- Division of Hematology; Leukemia/BMT Program of British Columbia; Vancouver General Hospital; BC Cancer Agency; University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC
| | - Tanya L. Gillan
- Cytogenetics Laboratory; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine; Vancouver General Hospital and University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC
| | - Yasser R. Abou Mourad
- Division of Hematology; Leukemia/BMT Program of British Columbia; Vancouver General Hospital; BC Cancer Agency; University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC
| | - Michael J. Barnett
- Division of Hematology; Leukemia/BMT Program of British Columbia; Vancouver General Hospital; BC Cancer Agency; University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC
| | - Raewyn C. Broady
- Division of Hematology; Leukemia/BMT Program of British Columbia; Vancouver General Hospital; BC Cancer Agency; University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC
| | - Donna L. Forrest
- Division of Hematology; Leukemia/BMT Program of British Columbia; Vancouver General Hospital; BC Cancer Agency; University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC
| | - Donna E. Hogge
- Division of Hematology; Leukemia/BMT Program of British Columbia; Vancouver General Hospital; BC Cancer Agency; University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC
| | - Stephen H. Nantel
- Division of Hematology; Leukemia/BMT Program of British Columbia; Vancouver General Hospital; BC Cancer Agency; University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC
| | - Maryse M. Power
- Division of Hematology; Leukemia/BMT Program of British Columbia; Vancouver General Hospital; BC Cancer Agency; University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC
| | - Kevin W. Song
- Division of Hematology; Leukemia/BMT Program of British Columbia; Vancouver General Hospital; BC Cancer Agency; University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC
| | - Heather J. Sutherland
- Division of Hematology; Leukemia/BMT Program of British Columbia; Vancouver General Hospital; BC Cancer Agency; University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC
| | - Clayton A. Smith
- Division of Hematology; Leukemia/BMT Program of British Columbia; Vancouver General Hospital; BC Cancer Agency; University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC
| | - Sujaatha Narayanan
- Division of Hematology; Leukemia/BMT Program of British Columbia; Vancouver General Hospital; BC Cancer Agency; University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC
| | - Sean S. Young
- Cancer Genetics Laboratory; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine; BC Cancer Agency and University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC
| | - Joseph M. Connors
- Division of Medical Oncology; BC Cancer Agency; Centre for Lymphoid Cancer and University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC Canada
| | - John D. Shepherd
- Division of Hematology; Leukemia/BMT Program of British Columbia; Vancouver General Hospital; BC Cancer Agency; University of British Columbia; Vancouver BC
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8
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High-throughput VDJ sequencing for quantification of minimal residual disease in chronic lymphocytic leukemia and immune reconstitution assessment. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2011; 108:21194-9. [PMID: 22160699 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1118357109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The primary cause of poor outcome following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is disease recurrence. Detection of increasing minimal residual disease (MRD) following HCT may permit early intervention to prevent clinical relapse; however, MRD quantification remains an uncommon diagnostic test because of logistical and financial barriers to widespread use. Here we describe a method for quantifying CLL MRD using widely available consensus primers for amplification of all Ig heavy chain (IGH) genes in a mixture of peripheral blood mononuclear cells, followed by high-throughput sequencing (HTS) for disease-specific IGH sequence quantification. To achieve accurate MRD quantification, we developed a systematic bioinformatic methodology to aggregate cancer clone sequence variants arising from systematic and random artifacts occurring during IGH-HTS. We then compared the sensitivity of IGH-HTS, flow cytometry, and allele-specific oligonucleotide PCR for MRD quantification in 28 samples collected from 6 CLL patients following allogeneic HCT. Using amplimer libraries generated with consensus primers from patient blood samples, we demonstrate the sensitivity of IGH-HTS with 454 pyrosequencing to be 10(-5), with a high correlation between quantification by allele-specific oligonucleotide PCR and IGH-HTS (r = 0.85). From the same dataset used to quantify MRD, IGH-HTS also allowed us to profile IGH repertoire reconstitution after HCT-information not provided by the other MRD methods. IGH-HTS using consensus primers will broaden the availability of MRD quantification in CLL and other B cell malignancies, and this approach has potential for quantitative evaluation of immune diversification following transplant and nontransplant therapies.
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9
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Brion A, Mahé B, Kolb B, Audhuy B, Colombat P, Maisonneuve H, Foussard C, Bureau A, Ferrand C, Lesesve JF, Béné MC, Feugier P. Autologous transplantation in CLL patients with B and C Binet stages: final results of the prospective randomized GOELAMS LLC 98 trial. Bone Marrow Transplant 2011; 47:542-8. [DOI: 10.1038/bmt.2011.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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10
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Autologous stem cell transplantation as a first-line treatment strategy for chronic lymphocytic leukemia: a multicenter, randomized, controlled trial from the SFGM-TC and GFLLC. Blood 2011; 117:6109-19. [DOI: 10.1182/blood-2010-11-317073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Long-term responses have been reported after autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). We conducted a prospective, randomized trial of ASCT in previously untreated CLL patients. We enrolled 241 patients < 66 years of age with Binet stage B or C CLL. They received 3 courses of mini-CHOP (cyclophosphamide, hydroxydaunorubicin, oncovin, and prednisone/prednisolone) and then 3 courses of fludarabine. Patients in complete response (CR) were then randomized to ASCT or observation, whereas the other patients were randomized to dexamethasone, high-dose aracytin, cisplatin (DHAP) salvage followed by either ASCT or 3 courses of fludarabine plus cyclophosphamide (FC). The primary end point was event-free survival (EFS). After up-front treatment, 105 patients entered CR and were randomized between ASCT (n = 52) and observation (n = 53); their respective 3-year EFS rates were 79.8% and 35.5%; the adjusted hazard ratio was 0.3 (95% CI: 0.1-0.7; P = .003). Ninety-four patients who did not enter CR were randomized between ASCT (n = 46) and FC (n = 48); their respective 3-year EFS rates were 48.9% and 44.4%, respectively; the adjusted hazard ratio was 1.7 (95% CI: 0.9-3.2; P = .13). No difference in overall survival was found between the 2 response subgroups. In young CLL patients in CR, ASCT consolidation markedly delayed disease progression. No difference was observed between ASCT and FC in patients requiring DHAP salvage.
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11
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Kater AP, Tonino SH. Standards for the treatment of relapsed chronic lymphocytic leukemia: a case-based study. CLINICAL LYMPHOMA MYELOMA & LEUKEMIA 2010; 10 Suppl 1:S34-41. [PMID: 20529806 DOI: 10.3816/clml.2010.s.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, considerable advances have been made in first-line treatment strategies for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Combination of conventional chemotherapy with immunotherapeutic agents is currently considered the most active strategy, with improved progression-free survival and overall survival. However, patients are not cured and invariably experience relapsing disease requiring treatment. In contrast to the advances made in first-line treatment strategies, much less progress has been made for patients with relapsed and especially refractory CLL. The activity of most chemotherapeutic drugs used in CLL rely on intact p53 function, and repeated cycles of therapy might eventually result in drug resistance because of acquired cytogenetic alterations, mainly affecting genes involved in the p53 response. As a consequence, most commonly used treatment regimens are ineffective in patients with refractory disease. A number of promising alternative treatment approaches are currently under investigation. In this review, the approach to patients with relapsed and refractory CLL and current promising experimental treatment options for these distinct clinical patient categories are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnon P Kater
- Department of Hematology, Academic Medical Center, The Netherlands.
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12
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Pavletic SZ, Kumar S, Mohty M, de Lima M, Foran JM, Pasquini M, Zhang MJ, Giralt S, Bishop MR, Weisdorf D. NCI First International Workshop on the Biology, Prevention, and Treatment of Relapse after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: report from the Committee on the Epidemiology and Natural History of Relapse following Allogeneic Cell Transplantation. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 2010; 16:871-90. [PMID: 20399876 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbmt.2010.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2010] [Accepted: 04/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT) is increasingly being used for treatment of hematologic malignancies, and the immunologic graft-versus-tumor effect (GVT) provides its therapeutic effectiveness. Disease relapse remains a cause of treatment failure in a significant proportion of patients undergoing alloHSCT without improvements over the last 2-3 decades. We summarize here current data and outline future research regarding the epidemiology, risk factors, and outcomes of relapse after alloHSCT. Although some factors (eg, disease status at alloHSCT or graft-versus-host disease [GVHD] effects) are common, other disease-specific factors may be unique. The impact of reduced-intensity regimens on relapse and survival still need to be assessed using contemporary supportive care and comparable patient populations. The outcome of patients relapsing after an alloHSCT generally remains poor even though interventions including donor leukocyte infusions can benefit some patients. Trials examining targeted therapies along with improved safety of alloHSCT may result in improved outcomes, yet selection bias necessitates prospective assessment to gauge the real contribution of any new therapies. Ongoing chronic GVHD (cGVHD) or other residual post-alloHSCT morbidities may limit the applicability of new therapies. Developing strategies to promptly identify patients as alloHSCT candidates, while malignancy is in a more treatable stage, could decrease relapses rates after alloHSCT. Better understanding and monitoring of minimal residual disease posttransplant could lead to novel preemptive treatments of relapse. Analyses of larger cohorts through multicenter collaborations or registries remain essential to probe questions not amenable to single center or prospective studies. Studies need to provide data with detail on disease status, prior treatments, biologic markers, and posttransplant events. Stringent statistical methods to study relapse remain an important area of research. The opportunities for improvement in prevention and management of post-alloHSCT relapse are apparent, but clinical discipline in their careful study remains important.
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PCR-based clonality assessment in patients with lymphocytic leukaemias: a single-institution experience. J Genet 2010; 88:309-14. [PMID: 20086296 DOI: 10.1007/s12041-009-0044-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PCR-based clonality testing can be performed in all lymphoproliferations by analysing gene rearrangements of antigen receptors, rearrangements that are unique for each kind of lymphocyte. Reactive lymphoproliferations have polyclonally rearranged Ig/TCR genes, whereas malignant proliferations (leukaemias and lymphomas) show clonal rearrangements. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical benefits of clonality testing with previously evaluated consensus primers in leukaemia patients. The study included peripheral blood and bone marrow samples of 67 leukaemia patients (32 B-CLL, 24 B-ALL and 11 T-ALL). Clonality testing was based on PCR amplification of rearranged IgH and TCR genes. During diagnosis, monoclonal pattern was found in all analysed B-CLL and T-ALL samples. Testing in B-ALL patients showed positive results in all bone marrow and one peripheral blood samples. Results of clonality testing in B-CLL patients during follow-up were concordant between peripheral blood and bone marrow. Obtained results corresponded to clinical course in all but one patient. In B-ALL group, results of molecular testing in peripheral blood and bone marrow confirmed remission estimated according to clinical criteria in all except one patient. Before any clinical sign of relapse, monoclonal pattern was found in six/seven patients by bone marrow and in three/seven patients by peripheral blood analysis, respectively. Results of molecular monitoring in T-ALL patients did not confirme clinical evaluation in two patients. Obtained results indicate high accuracy of re-evaluated primers for clonality assessment in ALL and CLL patients at the time of diagnosis. Results of clonality testing in B-ALL patients indicate that bone marrow analysis has higher sensitivity compared to analysis of peripheral blood.
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14
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Böttcher S, Stilgenbauer S, Busch R, Brüggemann M, Raff T, Pott C, Fischer K, Fingerle-Rowson G, Döhner H, Hallek M, Kneba M, Ritgen M. Standardized MRD flow and ASO IGH RQ-PCR for MRD quantification in CLL patients after rituximab-containing immunochemotherapy: a comparative analysis. Leukemia 2009; 23:2007-17. [PMID: 19641522 DOI: 10.1038/leu.2009.140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Rituximab-containing regimens are becoming a therapeutic standard in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), so that a validation of flow cytometric minimal residual disease (MRD) quantification (MRD flow) in the presence of this antibody is necessary. We therefore compared results obtained by real-time quantitative (RQ)-PCR to MRD flow in 530 samples from 69 patients randomized to receive chemotherapy or chemotherapy plus rituximab. Quantitative MRD levels assessed by both techniques were closely correlated irrespective of therapy (r=0.95). The sensitivity and specificity of MRD flow was not influenced by the presence of rituximab. With 58.9% positive and 26.4% negative samples by both techniques, 85.3% of assessments (452/530) were qualitatively concordant between MRD flow and RQ-PCR. Discordant samples were typically negative by MRD flow and simultaneously positive close to the detection limit of the PCR assays, indicating a higher sensitivity of PCR for very low MRD levels. However, 93.8% of all samples were concordantly classified by both methods using a threshold of 10(-4) to determine MRD positivity. MRD flow and PCR are equally effective for MRD quantification in rituximab-treated CLL patients within a sensitivity range of up to 10(-4), whereas PCR is more sensitive for detecting MRD below that level.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Böttcher
- Second Department of Medicine, University of Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany.
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15
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The effect of in vivo T cell depletion with alemtuzumab on reduced-intensity allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation for chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 2008; 14:1288-97. [PMID: 18940684 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbmt.2008.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2008] [Accepted: 09/02/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation is increasingly considered for patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). To investigate the impact of in vivo T cell depletion with alemtuzumab on the incidence of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), nonrelapse mortality (NRM), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS), we retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of 62 consecutive CLL patients conditioned with fludarabine and melphalan at 4 institutions. For GVHD prophylaxis, 41 patients (cohort 1) received alemtuzumab and cyclosporin; and 21 patients (cohort 2) received cyclosporin plus methotrexate or mycophenolate. Donors were 50 siblings and 12 unrelated volunteers. Twenty-two (36%) patients received donor lymphocyte infusions (DLI), 20 (49%) from cohort 1 and 2 (10%) from cohort 2 (P=.002). Grade III-IV acute GVHD (aGVHD) was observed in 20% and 38% of patients from cohorts 1 and 2, respectively (P=.14). Extensive chronic GVHD (cGVHD) was observed in 10% and 48% of patients from cohorts 1 and 2, respectively (P=.03). There was a trend toward a higher viral infection rate in cohort 1 compared to cohort 2 (68% versus 43%, P=.062), but the incidence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation was not significantly different. The 3-year OS, PFS, NRM, and relapse rates were 65%, 39%, 28%, and 32%, respectively, for cohort 1; and 57%, 47%, 34%, and 20%, respectively, for cohort 2 (P=.629, P=.361, P=.735, and P=0.112, respectively). In conclusion, both methods of GVHD prophylaxis were equivalent in terms of survival. The administration of alemtuzumab led to reduced cGVHD, possibly improving quality of life.
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Malhotra P, Hogan WJ, Litzow MR, Elliott MA, Gastineau DA, Ansell SM, Dispenzieri A, Gertz MA, Hayman SR, Inwards DJ, Lacy MQ, Micallef IN, Porrata LF, Tefferi A. Long-term outcome of allogeneic stem cell transplantation in chronic lymphocytic leukemia: analysis after a minimum follow-up of 5 years. Leuk Lymphoma 2008; 49:1724-30. [PMID: 18798106 DOI: 10.1080/10428190802263535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
In order to evaluate the long-term results of allogeneic stem cell transplantation (ASCT) in B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), we reviewed the outcome of 12 consecutive CLL patients, who underwent ASCT at the Mayo Clinic prior to July, 2004. Median age was 44 years (range 18-55) and median time from diagnosis to transplant 58.5 months. All patients had failed prior fludarabine-based chemotherapy and all but two patients had chemo-resistant refractory disease at time of transplant. A 'myeloablative' conditioning regimen was used in 11 patients and 'reduced intensity' in one. Bone marrow was the source of hematopoietic stem cells in 10 patients and peripheral blood in two. Donors were matched sibling in nine patients, unrelated in two and partial phenotypic match father in one. Grade II-IV acute and chronic graft versus host disease was documented in five and four patients, respectively. To date, six patients (50%) have died including four early deaths from infection. Complete remission (CR) was documented in eight patients (66.7%) post-transplant; six are currently alive whereas one died at 7 months from infection while still in CR and one relapsed 7 months post-transplant and died later. One CR patient relapsed after 4.5 years but was successfully re-transplanted and remains in second CR for 6.5+ years. Another patient recently relapsed after 10.5 years of CR. Duration of ASCT-induced CR in the remaining four patients was 6.5+, 8.5+, 9+ and 10+ years. All surviving patients displayed excellent performance status without ongoing chronic graft versus host disease. We conclude that ASCT is an effective salvage therapy for fludarabine-refractory CLL but late relapses can occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Malhotra
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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17
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Nguyen V, van Besien K. Late relapse following allogeneic transplant for chronic lymphocytic leukemia: how good are graft versus leukemia effects? Leuk Lymphoma 2008; 49:1651-2. [PMID: 18798096 DOI: 10.1080/10428190802409948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vu Nguyen
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
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18
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Boyiadzis M, Foon KA, Pavletic S. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for chronic lymphocytic leukemia: potential cure for an incurable disease. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2007; 7:1789-97. [PMID: 18034645 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.7.12.1789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has been used as a treatment modality in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Allogeneic HSCT is the only therapy at present that has curative potential in patients with CLL. Allogeneic HSCT using standard myeloablative regimens has been generally associated with high treatment mortality rates and autologous HSCT with high relapse rates. Over the last decade the use of reduced intensity conditioning (non-myeloablative) regimens have reduced the treatment-related mortality after allogeneic-HSCT without affecting the graft-versus-leukemia effectiveness. In addition, the development of molecular and biologic markers has identified high-risk CLL patients that may benefit from earlier treatment with HSCT. This review summarizes the use of existing prognostic markers in CLL and their use in HSCT, and the advances, indications and clinical outcomes of both autologous HSCT and allogeneic HSCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Boyiadzis
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, UPMC Cancer Pavilion, 5150 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA.
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Dreger P, Brand R, Michallet M. Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. Semin Hematol 2007; 44:246-51. [DOI: 10.1053/j.seminhematol.2007.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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20
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Bench AJ, Erber WN, Follows GA, Scott MA. Molecular genetic analysis of haematological malignancies II: mature lymphoid neoplasms. Int J Lab Hematol 2007; 29:229-60. [PMID: 17617076 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-553x.2007.00876.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Molecular genetic techniques have become an integral part of the diagnostic assessment for many lymphomas and other chronic lymphoid neoplasms. The demonstration of a clonal immunoglobulin or T cell receptor gene rearrangement offers a useful diagnostic tool in cases where the diagnosis is equivocal. Molecular genetic detection of other genomic rearrangements may not only assist with the diagnosis but can also provide important prognostic information. Many of these rearrangements can act as molecular markers for the detection of low levels of residual disease. In this review, we discuss the applications of molecular genetic analysis to the chronic lymphoid malignancies. The review concentrates on those disorders for which molecular genetic analysis can offer diagnostic and/or prognostic information.
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MESH Headings
- Burkitt Lymphoma/genetics
- Gene Rearrangement
- Humans
- Immunoglobulin G/genetics
- Leukemia, Hairy Cell/genetics
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/genetics
- Leukemia, Prolymphocytic/genetics
- Leukemia-Lymphoma, Adult T-Cell/genetics
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/genetics
- Lymphoma, Follicular/genetics
- Lymphoma, Mantle-Cell/genetics
- Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin/genetics
- Lymphoma, T-Cell/genetics
- Molecular Diagnostic Techniques
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Bench
- Haemato-Oncology Diagnostic Service, Department of Haematology, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK.
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21
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Nabhan C, Coutré S, Hillmen P. Minimal residual disease in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia: is it ready for primetime? Br J Haematol 2006; 136:379-92. [PMID: 17129223 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2141.2006.06428.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
New therapeutic modalities have substantially improved response rates and outcomes in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), yet the mindset remains that palliation is the only goal of therapy because the disease is considered incurable. Ultimately, all patients relapse despite achieving an initial response, as minimal residual disease (MRD) persisting after therapy eventually evolves into morphological and clinical recurrence. The emergence of immune-based combination therapies capable of inducing molecular remissions, the availability of highly sensitive assays that detect MRD, and emerging data showing a longer duration of response or longer survival in patients with no detectable disease, suggest that eradicating MRD may be a reasonable option for some patients. Moreover, novel biological prognostic markers have divided CLL into favourable and unfavourable subtypes, arguing in favour of defining different goals of therapy for different patients. Clinicians are increasingly challenged with the task of how best to incorporate MRD assessment into clinical practice, especially in an era when these novel prognostic factors exist. This review summarises the current understanding of MRD from a clinical standpoint, suggests that MRD eradication maybe a reasonable option for some patients, and argues in favour of designing large randomised studies to determine whether MRD-negative remission improves outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chadi Nabhan
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Lutheran General Hospital Cancer Center, Park Ridge, IL, USA.
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22
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Dreger P, Corradini P, Kimby E, Michallet M, Milligan D, Schetelig J, Wiktor-Jedrzejczak W, Niederwieser D, Hallek M, Montserrat E. Indications for allogeneic stem cell transplantation in chronic lymphocytic leukemia: the EBMT transplant consensus. Leukemia 2006; 21:12-7. [PMID: 17109028 DOI: 10.1038/sj.leu.2404441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 257] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this project was to identify situations where allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) might be considered as a preferred treatment option for patients with B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Based on a MEDLINE search and additional sources, a consented proposal was drafted, refined and approved upon final discussion by an international expert panel. Key elements of the consensus are (1) allo-SCT is a procedure with evidence-based efficacy in poor-risk CLL; (2) although definition of 'poor-risk CLL' requires further investigation, allo-SCT is a reasonable treatment option for younger patients with (i) non-response or early relapse (within 12 months) after purine analogues, (ii) relapse within 24 months after having achieved a response with purine-analogue-based combination therapy or autologous transplantation, and (iii) patients with p53 abnormalities requiring treatment; and (3) optimum transplant strategies may vary according to distinct clinical situations and should be defined in prospective trials. This is the first attempt to define standard indications for allo-SCT in CLL. Nevertheless, whenever possible, allo-SCT should be performed within disease-specific prospective clinical protocols in order to continuously refine transplant indications according to new developments in risk assessment and treatment of CLL.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Dreger
- Department of Medicine V, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Abstract
Traditionally, the goal of therapy in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) has been palliative, with first-line therapy using alkylating agents and/or involved field radiotherapy (depending on the stage of disease and sites of involvement) because of the older age of affected patients and the low rate of complete remissions (CRs) with no improvement in overall survival despite treatment. With increasing knowledge about the biology, molecular genetics, and prognostic factors of the disease, the philosophy of care for patients with CLL has evolved from palliation to aiming for a potential cure, especially in younger patients. Furthermore, multiple treatment options have emerged, including purine analogues, monoclonal antibodies, and potentially stem cell transplantation. These have been associated with higher frequencies of CRs and longer durations of responses compared to conventional chemotherapy. In addition, a subset of patients treated with chemoimmunotherapy can achieve durable CRs and molecular remissions. This may translate into improved disease-free survival and potentially a "cure." Because of the heterogeneous nature of CLL, new prognostic markers are currently being incorporated into clinical trials to determine their role in routine clinical practice. This review summarizes current therapeutic regimens that are being evaluated in patients with CLL and management of disease-related complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen W L Yee
- Department of Leukemia, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Moreno C, Villamor N, Colomer D, Esteve J, Giné E, Muntañola A, Campo E, Bosch F, Montserrat E. Clinical significance of minimal residual disease, as assessed by different techniques, after stem cell transplantation for chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Blood 2006; 107:4563-9. [PMID: 16449533 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2005-09-3634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We analyzed minimal residual disease (MRD) by consensus polymerase chain reaction (PCR), quantitative PCR (qPCR), and flow cytometry in 40 patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) who underwent stem cell transplantation; 97.4%, 89%, and 100% of the patients could be studied by consensus PCR, qPCR, and flow cytometry, respectively. Overall, 164 of 248 samples were negative for MRD by consensus PCR. Among those, CLL cells were detected by qPCR and by flow cytometry in 77 (47%) and 39 (23%) of the 164 samples, respectively. All 84 samples positive on PCR had detectable CLL cells by qPCR and flow cytometry. A good correlation was seen between MRD levels by flow cytometry and by qPCR (n = 254; r = 0.826; P < .001). Fifteen of 25 patients receiving autografts suffered a relapse, with increasing levels of MRD being observed before relapse in all of them. MRD detection within the first 6 months after autologous transplantation identified patients with a high relapse risk. In contrast, in allografted patients (n = 15) MRD did not correlate with outcome. In conclusion, quantitative methods to assess MRD (flow cytometry and qPCR) are more accurate than consensus PCR to predict clinical evolution. These results might be useful to investigate treatments aimed at preventing relapse in patients with CLL who have received an autograft.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Moreno
- Department of Hematology, University of Barcelona, Villarroel, 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
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