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McKay SL, Guo A, Pergam SA, Dooling K. Herpes Zoster Risk in Immunocompromised Adults in the United States: A Systematic Review. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 71:e125-e134. [PMID: 31677266 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz1090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The primary reported risk factors for herpes zoster (HZ) include increasing age and immunodeficiency, yet estimates of HZ risk by immunocompromising condition have not been well characterized. We undertook a systematic literature review to estimate the HZ risk in immunocompromised patients. METHODS We systematically reviewed studies that examined the risk of HZ and associated complications in adult patients with hematopoietic cell transplants (HCT), cancer, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and solid organ transplant (SOT). We identified studies in PubMed, Embase, Medline, Cochrane, Scopus, and clinicaltrials.gov that presented original data from the United States and were published after 1992. We assessed the risk of bias with Cochrane or Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methods. RESULTS We identified and screened 3765 records and synthesized 34 studies with low or moderate risks of bias. Most studies that were included (32/34) reported at least 1 estimate of the HZ cumulative incidence (range, 0-41%). There were 12 studies that reported HZ incidences that varied widely within and between immunocompromised populations. Incidence estimates ranged from 9 to 92 HZ cases/1000 patient-years and were highest in HCT, followed by hematologic malignancies, SOT, and solid tumor malignancies, and were lowest in people living with HIV. Among 17 HCT studies, the absence of or use of antiviral prophylaxis at <1 year post-transplant was associated with a higher HZ incidence. CONCLUSIONS HZ was common among all immunocompromised populations studied, exceeding the expected HZ incidence among immunocompetent adults aged ≥60 years. Better evidence of the incidence of HZ complications and their severity in immunocompromised populations is needed to inform economic and HZ vaccine policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susannah L McKay
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Division of Viral Diseases, National Center Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Angela Guo
- Division of Viral Diseases, National Center Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Steven A Pergam
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Infection Prevention, Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kathleen Dooling
- Division of Viral Diseases, National Center Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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3
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Treon SP, Castillo JJ, Hunter ZR, Merlini G. Waldenström Macroglobulinemia/Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma. Hematology 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-35762-3.00087-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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4
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Kapoor P, Ansell SM, Fonseca R, Chanan-Khan A, Kyle RA, Kumar SK, Mikhael JR, Witzig TE, Mauermann M, Dispenzieri A, Ailawadhi S, Stewart AK, Lacy MQ, Thompson CA, Buadi FK, Dingli D, Morice WG, Go RS, Jevremovic D, Sher T, King RL, Braggio E, Novak A, Roy V, Ketterling RP, Greipp PT, Grogan M, Micallef IN, Bergsagel PL, Colgan JP, Leung N, Gonsalves WI, Lin Y, Inwards DJ, Hayman SR, Nowakowski GS, Johnston PB, Russell SJ, Markovic SN, Zeldenrust SR, Hwa YL, Lust JA, Porrata LF, Habermann TM, Rajkumar SV, Gertz MA, Reeder CB. Diagnosis and Management of Waldenström Macroglobulinemia: Mayo Stratification of Macroglobulinemia and Risk-Adapted Therapy (mSMART) Guidelines 2016. JAMA Oncol 2017; 3:1257-1265. [PMID: 28056114 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2016.5763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Importance Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM), an IgM-associated lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma, has witnessed several practice-altering advances in recent years. With availability of a wider array of therapies, the management strategies have become increasingly complex. Our multidisciplinary team appraised studies published or presented up to December 2015 to provide consensus recommendations for a risk-adapted approach to WM, using a grading system. Observations Waldenström macroglobulinemia remains a rare, incurable cancer, with a heterogeneous disease course. The major classes of effective agents in WM include monoclonal antibodies, alkylating agents, purine analogs, proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs, and mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors. However, the highest-quality evidence from rigorously conducted randomized clinical trials remains scant. Conclusions and Relevance Recognizing the paucity of data, we advocate participation in clinical trials, if available, at every stage of WM. Specific indications exist for initiation of therapy. Outside clinical trials, based on the synthesis of available evidence, we recommend bendamustine-rituximab as primary therapy for bulky disease, profound hematologic compromise, or constitutional symptoms attributable to WM. Dexamethasone-rituximab-cyclophosphamide is an alternative, particularly for nonbulky WM. Routine rituximab maintenance should be avoided. Plasma exchange should be promptly initiated before cytoreduction for hyperviscosity-related symptoms. Stem cell harvest for future use may be considered in first remission for patients 70 years or younger who are potential candidates for autologous stem cell transplantation. At relapse, retreatment with the original therapy is reasonable in patients with prior durable responses (time to next therapy ≥3 years) and good tolerability to previous regimen. Ibrutinib is efficacious in patients with relapsed or refractory disease harboring MYD88 L265P mutation. In the absence of neuropathy, a bortezomib-rituximab-based option is reasonable for relapsed or refractory disease. In select patients with chemosensitive disease, autologous stem cell transplantation should be considered at first or second relapse. Everolimus and purine analogs are suitable options for refractory or multiply relapsed WM. Our recommendations are periodically updated as new, clinically relevant information emerges.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rafael Fonseca
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona
| | | | - Robert A Kyle
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Shaji K Kumar
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Joseph R Mikhael
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona
| | | | | | | | | | - A Keith Stewart
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona
| | - Martha Q Lacy
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | | | - David Dingli
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | - Ronald S Go
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | - Taimur Sher
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Rebecca L King
- Division of Hematopathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Esteban Braggio
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona
| | - Ann Novak
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Vivek Roy
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida
| | | | | | - Martha Grogan
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | - P Leif Bergsagel
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona
| | | | - Nelson Leung
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.,Division of Nephrology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | - Yi Lin
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Yi L Hwa
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - John A Lust
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Luis F Porrata
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | | | - Morie A Gertz
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Craig B Reeder
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona
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Response rate to the treatment of Waldenström macroglobulinemia: A meta-analysis of the results of clinical trials. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2016; 105:118-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2016.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Revised: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 06/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
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6
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Abstract
Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) is a rare, indolent, and monoclonal immunoglobulin M-associated lymphoplasmacytic disorder with unique clinicopathologic characteristics. Over the past decade, remarkable progress has occurred on both the diagnostic and therapeutic fronts in WM. A deeper understanding of the disease biology emanates from the seminal discoveries of myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MYD88) L265P somatic mutation in the vast majority of cases and C-X-C chemokine receptor, type 4, mutations in about a third of patients. Although WM remains an incurable malignancy, and the indications to initiate treatment are largely unchanged, the therapeutic armamentarium continues to expand. Acknowledging the paucity of high-level evidence from large randomized controlled trials, herein, we evaluate the genomic aberrations and provide a strategic framework for the management in the frontline as well as the relapsed/refractory settings of symptomatic WM.
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7
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Waldenström macroglobulinemia: What a hematologist needs to know. Blood Rev 2015; 29:301-19. [PMID: 25882617 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2015.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2014] [Revised: 03/07/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) is a distinct hematologic malignancy characterized by a lymphoplasmacytic bone marrow infiltration and the presence of immunoglobulin (Ig)M monoclonal protein. Patients typically present at an advanced age, and a substantial proportion are asymptomatic at diagnosis. A unifying diagnosis of WM may be missed by an unsuspecting hematologist, as symptomatic patients present with a multitude of non-specific manifestations. Although constitutional and neuropathy-related symptoms predominate, concomitant IgM-induced hyperviscosity-associated features can provide useful diagnostic clues. There are specific indications for initiation of therapy. This review focuses on the most up-to-date management strategies of WM, in addition to highlighting the recent discoveries of MYD88 and CXCR4 mutations that have shed unprecedented light on the complex signaling pathways, and opened avenues for novel therapeutic targeting. Although WM remains incurable, with the rapid emergence and integration of effective novel therapies, its clinical course appears poised to improve in the foreseeable future.
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9
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Souchet-Cömpain L, Choquet S, Leblond V, Nguyen S. Current and future therapeutic approach for Waldenström's macroglobulinemia. Immunotherapy 2014; 6:333-48. [PMID: 24762077 DOI: 10.2217/imt.13.174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Waldenström's macroglobulinemia is a rare B-cell malignancy defined by medullar infiltration by clonal lymphoplasmocytic cells and monoclonal IgM secretion. Treatment is reserved for symptomatic patients. The main first-line treatment strategies combine immunotherapy (principally the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab) with chemotherapeutic agents, including alkylating agents, purine analogs and/or bortezomib. The overall response rate to these conventional treatments is between 70 and 90%, but a cure cannot be expected. For patients with relapsed or refractory disease, drugs that were not used for first-line treatment and other agents such as immunomodulators can be tried, but the response rate is generally lower and the responses are shorter lived. Recently, advances in our understanding of the biology of Waldenström's macroglobulinemia have led to the development of new drugs targeting hyperactive pathways. This review focuses on current treatment options and on new therapeutic developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laetitia Souchet-Cömpain
- Service d'Hématologie, Pavillon de l'enfant et de l'adolescent, Groupe hospitalier Pitié Salpêtrière, 47-83 boulevard de l'hôpital, 75651 Paris Cedex 13, France
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10
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11
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Abstract
Waldenström's macroglobulinemia is a distinct disorder characterized by a monoclonal immunoglobulin M paraprotein and morphological evidence of lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma. It is relatively rare, accounting for approximately 2% of all hematological malignancies. The aim of treatment for patients with Waldenström's macroglobulinemia should be to improve the quality and duration of life with minimal side effects in the most cost-effective manner. It is not yet clear if achievement of a complete remission confers clinical benefit and it is possible that prolonging therapy to maximal response may increase toxicity without extra benefit. Plasma exchange is indicated for the acute management of patients with severe problems due to a circulating paraprotein. There are no comparative data but alkylating agent-based treatments, combination therapy or purine analogs are all suitable choices for the initial therapy of patients requiring treatment. In younger patients, in whom high-dose treatment is contemplated, there is a role for the use of rituximab; however, it should be administered with caution in patients with high levels of immunoglobulin M paraprotein or signs of hyperviscosity because of the risk of 'flare' in the paraprotein level and consequent adverse clinical events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen A Johnson
- Department of Haematology, Taunton and Somerset Hospital, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 5DA, UK.
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12
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Cervetti G, Galimberti S, Cecconi N, Caracciolo F, Petrini M. Role of Low-Dose 2-CdA in Refractory or Resistant Lymphoplasmocytic Lymphoma. J Chemother 2013; 16:388-91. [PMID: 15332715 DOI: 10.1179/joc.2004.16.4.388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
Cladribrine (2-CdA), a purine analogue active on both dividing and resting lymphocytes, plays an important role in the treatment of indolent lymphoproliferative malignancies such as Hairy Cell Leukemia (HCL), Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), Lymphoplasmocytic Lymphoma (LPL), Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia (WM). With the aim of evaluating the efficacy and toxicity of low dose 2-CdA, 15 lymphoplasmocytic lymphoma patients, not eligible for more aggressive or standard therapies, because of age or poor performance status, were treated with the drug at a dose of 5 mg/m2, once a week for six total courses. All patients showed disease progression. Fourteen patients were valuable for response. In eleven out of these 14 (85.7%) disease progression stopped, with 21% having good hematological responses (one CR and two PR). The treatment was generally well tolerated, without serious infectious events. This schedule may be appropriate for the management of patients where the aim of the treatment is control of disease progression.
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MESH Headings
- Aged
- Antineoplastic Agents/administration & dosage
- Antineoplastic Agents/adverse effects
- Cladribine/administration & dosage
- Cladribine/adverse effects
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Drug Administration Schedule
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm
- Female
- Humans
- Infusions, Intravenous
- Leukemia, Hairy Cell/diagnosis
- Leukemia, Hairy Cell/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Hairy Cell/mortality
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/diagnosis
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/mortality
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Probability
- Prognosis
- Prospective Studies
- Risk Assessment
- Severity of Illness Index
- Survival Analysis
- Treatment Outcome
- Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia/diagnosis
- Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia/drug therapy
- Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia/mortality
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Affiliation(s)
- G Cervetti
- Hematology Division, Department of Oncology, Transplants and Advanced Technologies, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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13
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Primary Therapy of Waldenström Macroglobulinemia With Nucleoside Analogue–Based Therapy. CLINICAL LYMPHOMA MYELOMA & LEUKEMIA 2013; 13:227-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clml.2013.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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14
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Kristinsson SY, Eloranta S, Dickman PW, Andersson TML, Turesson I, Landgren O, Björkholm M. Patterns of survival in lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma/Waldenström macroglobulinemia: a population-based study of 1,555 patients diagnosed in Sweden from 1980 to 2005. Am J Hematol 2013; 88:60-5. [PMID: 23165980 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.23351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2012] [Accepted: 10/01/2012] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Clinical management of lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (LPL)/Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) has changed considerably over recent years, reflected in the use of new therapeutic agents (purine analogs, monoclonal antibodies, thalidomide- and bortezomib-based therapies). No population-based studies and few randomized trials have been performed to assess survival in newly diagnosed LPL/WM. We performed a large population-based study in Sweden including 1,555 LPL/WM patients diagnosed from 1980 to 2005. Relative survival ratios (RSRs) and excess mortality rate ratios (EMRR) were computed as measures of survival. Survival of LPL/WM patients has improved significantly (P = 0.007) over time with 5-year RSR = 0.57 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.46-0.68), 0.65 (0.57-0.73), 0.74 (0.68-0.80), 0.72 (0.66-0.77), and 0.78 (0.71-0.85) for patients diagnosed during the calendar periods 1980-1985, 1986-1990, 1991-1995, 1996-2000, and 2001-2005, respectively. Improvement in 1- and 5-year relative survival was found in all age groups and for LPL and WM separately. Patients with WM had lower excess mortality compared to LPL (EMRR = 0.38; 95% CI 0.30-0.48). Older age at diagnosis was associated with a poorer survival (P < 0.001). Taken together, we found a significant improvement in survival in LPL/WM over time. Despite this progress, new effective agents with a more favourable toxicity profile are needed to further improve survival in LPL/WM, especially in the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigurdur Y Kristinsson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden.
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15
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Spurgeon SE, Pindyck T, Okada C, Chen Y, Chen Z, Mater E, Abbi K, Epner EM. Cladribine plus rituximab is an effective therapy for newly diagnosed mantle cell lymphoma. Leuk Lymphoma 2011; 52:1488-94. [DOI: 10.3109/10428194.2011.575489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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16
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Abstract
Before the contemporary development of rationally designed antineoplastic therapies, cladribine was identified as a lymphocyte-specific agent. Its profound impact on the natural history of hairy cell leukemia, with responses approaching 100% and a median duration of response of nearly a decade after only a single 7-day course, is well known and revolutionized the treatment of hairy cell leukemia. However, cladribine's impressive activity in other lymphoproliferative disorders has been generally underappreciated. Multiple single-arm phase 2 trials have demonstrated cladribine's potency across the full spectrum of lymphoid malignancies. In a limited number of phase 3 trials and cross-study analyses, cladribine compared favorably with fludarabine, another purine nucleoside analog that is more commonly used in the treatment of indolent lymphoid malignancies. Cladribine has been noted to have particular activity among lymphoid disorders with few effective therapies, specifically, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma, marginal zone lymphoma, and mantle cell lymphoma. Recently approved novel agents may act in synergy with cladribine for these conditions and should be incorporated into future clinical studies.
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Dimopoulos MA, Chen C, Kastritis E, Gavriatopoulou M, Treon SP. Bortezomib as a Treatment Option in Patients With Waldenström Macroglobulinemia. CLINICAL LYMPHOMA MYELOMA & LEUKEMIA 2010; 10:110-7. [DOI: 10.3816/clml.2010.n.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Spurgeon S, Yu M, Phillips JD, Epner EM. Cladribine: not just another purine analogue? Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2010; 18:1169-81. [PMID: 19604118 DOI: 10.1517/13543780903071038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Cladribine was synthesized as a purine analogue drug that inhibited adenosine deaminase. It received FDA approval in the 1980s for treatment of hairy cell leukemia. Given its toxicity towards lymphocytes and its corresponding immunosuppressive effects, it has been studied and found efficacious in a variety of hematologic malignancies and autoimmune conditions, most recently multiple sclerosis. This review highlights pharmacological, toxicological and clinical data for the use of cladribine. It also discusses existing and new mechanisms that may contribute to its unique clinical activity. Emerging data show that in addition to its known purine nucleoside analogue activity, cladribine possesses epigenetic properties, inhibiting S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase and DNA methylation. This may contribute to its efficacy and highlights the importance of studying combination therapy with other epigenetic or targeted agents. Clinical trials are underway in a variety of malignant and nonmalignant conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Spurgeon
- Oregon Health Sciences University, Medicine, 4130 Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239, USA
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19
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Treon SP, Branagan AR, Ioakimidis L, Soumerai JD, Patterson CJ, Turnbull B, Wasi P, Emmanouilides C, Frankel SR, Lister A, Morel P, Matous J, Gregory SA, Kimby E. Long-term outcomes to fludarabine and rituximab in Waldenström macroglobulinemia. Blood 2009; 113:3673-8. [PMID: 19015393 PMCID: PMC2670786 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2008-09-177329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2008] [Accepted: 10/27/2008] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We report the long-term outcome of a multicenter, prospective study examining fludarabine and rituximab in Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM). WM patients with less than 2 prior therapies were eligible. Intended therapy consisted of 6 cycles (25 mg/m(2) per day for 5 days) of fludarabine and 8 infusions (375 mg/m(2) per week) of rituximab. A total of 43 patients were enrolled. Responses were: complete response (n = 2), very good partial response (n = 14), partial response (n = 21), and minor response (n = 4), for overall and major response rates of 95.3% and 86.0%, respectively. Median time to progression for all patients was 51.2 months and was longer for untreated patients (P = .017) and those achieving at least a very good partial response (P = .049). Grade 3 or higher toxicities included neutropenia (n = 27), thrombocytopenia (n = 7), and pneumonia (n = 6), including 2 patients who died of non-Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. With a median follow-up of 40.3 months, we observed 3 cases of transformation to aggressive lymphoma and 3 cases of myelodysplastic syndrome/acute myeloid leukemia. The results of this study demonstrate that fludarabine and rituximab are highly active in WM, although short- and long-term toxicities need to be carefully weighed against other available treatment options. This study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00020800.
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MESH Headings
- Aged
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/administration & dosage
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/adverse effects
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived
- Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/administration & dosage
- Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/adverse effects
- Disease-Free Survival
- Female
- Follow-Up Studies
- Humans
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/chemically induced
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/mortality
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Myelodysplastic Syndromes/chemically induced
- Myelodysplastic Syndromes/mortality
- Neoplasms, Second Primary/chemically induced
- Neoplasms, Second Primary/mortality
- Neutropenia/chemically induced
- Neutropenia/mortality
- Pneumonia/chemically induced
- Pneumonia/mortality
- Prospective Studies
- Rituximab
- Survival Rate
- Thrombocytopenia/chemically induced
- Thrombocytopenia/mortality
- Time Factors
- Vidarabine/administration & dosage
- Vidarabine/adverse effects
- Vidarabine/analogs & derivatives
- Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia/diet therapy
- Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia/mortality
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven P Treon
- Bing Center for Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Indolent Lymphomas Other than Follicular and Marginal Zone Lymphomas. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2008; 22:903-40, viii. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2008.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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21
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Abstract
Over time, Waldenström macroglobulinaemia (WM) has evolved conceptually from a clinical syndrome to a distinct clinicopathological entity. Progress is being made in standardization of the disease definition and treatment response criteria, although nosologic controversies persist. According to the Second International Workshop on WM, the disease is defined as a B-cell neoplasm characterized by a lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate in the bone marrow, with an associated immunoglobulin (Ig) M paraprotein. Disease symptoms are often divided into those related to tumour infiltration and those related to the rheological effects of the monoclonal IgM. As with other low-grade lymphomas, asymptomatic patients are observed only, with treatment reserved for symptomatic patients. There is no standard treatment for WM and choices include rituximab, alkylating agents, purine nucleoside analogues, alone or in combination, as well as autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplant in eligible patients. Novel treatments, such as bortezomib, oblimersen sodium, perifosine and others are being evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Fonseca
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Mayo Clinic Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ, USA.
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22
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Rajkumar SV, Dispenzieri A, Kyle RA. Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance, Waldenström macroglobulinemia, AL amyloidosis, and related plasma cell disorders: diagnosis and treatment. Mayo Clin Proc 2006; 81:693-703. [PMID: 16706268 DOI: 10.4065/81.5.693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The spectrum of plasma cell disorders is broad. Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and smoldering multiple myeloma are asymptomatic disorders characterized by monoclonal plasma cell proliferation in the bone marrow in the absence of end-organ damage. Waldenström macroglobulinemia typically involves an ontogenically less mature lymphoplasmacytic bone marrow cell and is characterized by secretion of a monoclonal IgM protein. Solitary plasmacytoma is the only known potentially curable plasma cell disorder. Finally, AL (immunoglobulin light chain) amyloidosis and POEMS (polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal gammopathy, and skin changes) syndrome are disorders characterized by low tumor burden but profound multisystemic disease. Updated diagnostic criteria for these disorders, risk stratification models to determine prognosis, and the current management of these diverse entitles are discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Vincent Rajkumar
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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Abstract
Purine analogues have been shown to be active in a variety of B- and T-cell malignancies. Among them, pentostatin is also a tight binding inhibitor of adenosine deaminase (ADA), a key enzyme of purine metabolism. ADA is present in all human tissues, with the highest levels in the lymphoid system. Early clinical trials with pentostatin used high doses for acute lymphoblastic leukemias, which were characterized by high levels of ADA. Through the efforts of a few investigators, low-dose regimens that are active and well tolerated for indolent lymphoid malignancies have been developed. Myelosuppressive adverse effects have been shown to be minimal using these schedules. Lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (LL) is an indolent chronic B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder moderately responsive to alkylating agents. All of the purine analogues have shown activity in LL. However, the advantage of pentostatin over the other agents is the relatively specific toxicity to lymphoid cells and the paucity of myelosuppression as a single agent. No direct comparisons of the agents have been investigated, although pentostatin may be considered to be preferred since it has not been associated with toxicity to myeloid progenitors in colony assays. This is of significance for patients who might benefit from high-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony D Ho
- Department of Medicine V, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
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24
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Abstract
Pentostatin has been shown to be active in a variety of B- and T-cell malignancies. The drug is a tight inhibitor of adenosine deaminase, a key degradative enzyme of purine metabolism present in all human tissues, with the highest levels found in the lymphoid system. Early clinical trials indicated that this agent was highly active in acute lymphoblastic leukemias with high intracellular adenosine deaminase levels. Relatively high doses of the drug were needed, which was associated with severe adverse events. Through the efforts of a few investigators, better tolerated, low-dose regimens have been shown to be extremely active in lymphoproliferative diseases with very low intracellular adenosine deaminase levels such as hairy cell leukemia, B- and T-cell chronic leukemias, T-cell cutaneous lymphomas and low-grade non-Hodgkin lymphomas. Clinical as well as experimental data have indicated that this drug induces lymphocyte-specific cytotoxicity, and myelosuppressive adverse events have been minimal. Although all the purine analogs have shown similar activity, the advantage of pentostatin is the relatively specific cytotoxicity against lymphocytes, which permits treatment even in patients with severe cytopenias. Although no direct comparisons of the purine analogs have been performed, pentostatin may be preferred due to this property.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony D Ho
- Department of Medicine V, University of Heidelberg , Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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Johnson SA, Birchall J, Luckie C, Oscier DG, Owen RG. Guidelines on the management of Waldenstrom macroglobulinaemia*. Br J Haematol 2006; 132:683-97. [PMID: 16487169 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2141.2005.05948.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Tam CS, Wolf MM, Westerman D, Januszewicz EH, Prince HM, Seymour JF. Fludarabine Combination Therapy Is Highly Effective in First-Line and Salvage Treatment of Patients with Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 6:136-9. [PMID: 16231852 DOI: 10.3816/clm.2005.n.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Alkylating agents or single-agent purine analogues are modestly effective as front-line therapy for Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia (WM), but response rates of < 50% are exhibited in the salvage therapy setting. Fludarabine combination therapy may be more effective, but no large studies exploring these regimens specifically in WM are available. We report our results of 18 cycles of fludarabine combination therapy: FC (fludarabine 25 mg/m2 for 3 days plus cyclophosphamide 250 mg/m2 for 3 days; n = 9), FM (fludarabine 25 mg/m2 for 3 days plus mitoxantrone 10 mg/m2 for 1 day; n = 3), FCR (FC plus rituximab 375 mg/m2; n = 5), or fludarabine/rituximab (n = 1). Four patients had previously untreated disease, and 14 had pretreated disease; 67% had elevated serum levels of beta2-microglobulin, and 86% had hemoglobin levels < or = 12 g/dL. Patients received a median of 4 cycles (range, 1-6 cycles), with grade > or = 3 neutropenia and infection complicating 25% and 4% of cycles, respectively. Objective responses (all partial) were attained in 13 patients (76%). Response rates did not significantly differ by regimen, previous treatment, age, performance status, beta2-microglobulin level, hemoglobin level, time from diagnosis, previous fludarabine exposure, or alkylator refractoriness. Median remission duration was 38 months; no previously untreated patient had died at a median of 37 months of follow-up, and the actuarial 5-year survival rate was 55% for pretreated patients. No cases of secondary myelodysplasia or leukemia were encountered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constantine S Tam
- Department of Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, A'Beckett Street, East Melbourne, Victoria 8006, Australia
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Hensel M, Villalobos M, Kornacker M, Krasniqi F, Ho AD. Pentostatin/Cyclophosphamide with or Without Rituximab: An Effective Regimen for Patients with Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia/Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 6:131-5. [PMID: 16231851 DOI: 10.3816/clm.2005.n.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pentostatin has demonstrated significant activity as a single agent in patients with low-grade B-cell and T-cell lymphomas and is less myelosuppressive than other purine analogues. PATIENTS AND METHODS We conducted a phase II trial with the combination regimen of PC-R (pentostatin/cyclophosphamide with or without rituximab) in 14 patients with Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia (WM) and 3 patients with lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (LL) without monoclonal serum immunoglobulin M (IgM), followed by a maintenance regimen with rituximab (375 mg/m2 every 3 months) for patients exhibiting a complete response (CR) or a partial response (PR) after 4-6 cycles. Nine patients were untreated, and 8 had been previously treated with 1-3 regimens. The first 9 patients received PC therapy (pentostatin 4 mg/m2 plus cyclophosphamide 600 mg/m2), and 8 patients received the same combination with rituximab 375 mg/m2 on day 1. Cycles were repeated every 3 weeks. RESULTS An objective tumor response after PC and PC-R was confirmed in 11 of 17 evaluable patients (64.7%), with 2 CRs (11.7%) and 9 PRs (52.9%). In patients who received rituximab (n = 13) simultaneously or subsequently, the overall response rate was 76.9%. Grade 2/3 nausea and grade 2 vomiting was generally mild based on World Health Organization criteria. Grade 3 hematologic toxicity occurred after 9 of 49 cycles (18.3%), and grade 4 toxicity occurred after 2 cycles (4%). Ten patients were subsequently treated with rituximab every 3 months for 2-9 cycles to date (median, 4 cycles). No patients have had disease relapse to date, and all exhibited stable IgM serum levels. In 3 patients with a PR after completion of chemotherapy, remission has improved further, with normalization of the IgM level in 1 patient and another patient exhibiting a CR. CONCLUSION Our data indicate that PC-R is safe and highly effective in patients with WM. Maintenance therapy with rituximab for WM as a single infusion every 3 months can be administered safely and can improve remission status.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Aged
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/administration & dosage
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/adverse effects
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived
- Antineoplastic Agents/administration & dosage
- Antineoplastic Agents/adverse effects
- Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/administration & dosage
- Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/adverse effects
- Cyclophosphamide/administration & dosage
- Cyclophosphamide/adverse effects
- Disease-Free Survival
- Female
- Humans
- Immunoglobulin M/blood
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/blood
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/drug therapy
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Pentostatin/administration & dosage
- Pentostatin/adverse effects
- Remission Induction
- Rituximab
- Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia/blood
- Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia/drug therapy
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Affiliation(s)
- Manfred Hensel
- Department of Internal Medicine V, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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28
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Abstract
Waldenström macroglobulinemia is a rare monoclonal gammopathy-associated lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma. Its incidence is only 4 per million per year. This review contains the known published literature specifically on the available management tools for Waldenström macroglobulinemia and is designed to assist clinicians in making management decisions for patients with this uncommon disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morie A Gertz
- Division of Hematology and Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
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29
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Johnson SA, Owen RG, Oscier DG, Leblond V, Levy V, Jaeger U, Seymour JF. Phase III Study of Chlorambucil Versus Fludarabine as Initial Therapy for Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia and Related Disorders. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 5:294-7. [PMID: 15794869 DOI: 10.3816/clm.2005.n.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The WM1 study is a prospective randomized open-label study that includes patients with previously untreated Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia (WM), splenic lymphoma with villous lymphocytes (SLVL), and nonimmunoglobulin (Ig) M lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (LPL) who have an indication for treatment. At registration, patients are categorized as having WM, SLVL, or LPL, and these cohorts are to be analyzed separately. The aim of the study is to compare the efficacy of oral chlorambucil at a dose of 8 mg/m(2) (6 mg/m(2) for those > 75 years of age) for 10 days every 28 days to a maximum of 12 cycles with oral or intravenous (I.V.) fludarabine at a dose of 40 mg/m(2) orally or 25 mg/m(2) I.V. (30 mg/m(2)orally or 20 mg/m(2)I.V. for those > 75 years of age) for 5 days every 28 days to a maximum of 6 cycles. Primary endpoints are response to therapy and duration of response; secondary endpoints are improvement in hematologic parameters, toxicity of therapy, quality of life, and survival. To detect a difference in response rate of patients with WM of 15%, assuming that the overall response rates will be 50% to chlorambucil and 65% to fludarabine, with a power of 80%, requires the sample size of each group to be 183, indicating the need for collaboration among a number of national investigator groups. As of February 2005, accrual to the study stands at 143. Registration, randomization, and data collection are entirely Internet-based (www.waldenstroms.org), and the study is organized by an international collaboration, with a planned interim analysis and an external data monitoring committee.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen A Johnson
- Department of Haematology, Taunton and Somerset Hospital, Taunton TA1 5DA, UK.
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30
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Annibali O, Petrucci MT, Martini V, Tirindelli MC, Levi A, Fossati C, Del Bianco P, Mandelli F, Foa R, Avvisati G. Treatment of 72 newly diagnosed Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia cases with oral melphalan, cyclophosphamide, and prednisone: results and cost analysis. Cancer 2005; 103:582-7. [PMID: 15611977 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.20826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current treatment regimens for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (WM) are based on the use of oral alkylating agents. Recently, however, other more costly agents have been proposed for the treatment of WM. In the current study, the authors report on results obtained using oral melphalan, cyclophosphamide, and prednisone (MCP) to treat 72 patients with WM, and they compare these results (and the associated costs) with those observed using more aggressive protocols. METHODS Between July 1973 and April 2002, the authors documented overexpression of the immunoglobulin M paraprotein in 317 consecutive patients. Of these, 100 had newly diagnosed WM, and the 72 who were symptomatic were treated using the MCP protocol. Response rate, overall survival (OS), response duration, freedom from progression (FFP), event-free survival (EFS) duration, toxicity, and cost per course in Euro and U.S. dollars were evaluated for patients receiving this regimen. RESULTS Seventy-one of 72 patients (99%) were evaluable. Of these patients, 55 (77%) achieved a response; 7 others (10%) experienced disease stabilization, and the remaining 9 (13%) experienced disease progression. After a median follow-up of 72 months (range, 3-195 months), the median durations of EFS, FFP, response, and OS were 47, 55, 64, and 66 months, respectively. No World Health Organization Grade III or IV toxicities were observed, and side effects were limited to transient nausea, emesis, and mild neutropenia. The cost per course of the MCP regimen was $16, similar to that of standard protocols involving chlorambucil and much less than that of more aggressive protocols (price range, $91-11091) proposed for the treatment of WM. CONCLUSIONS Like chlorambucil-based protocols, the MCP regimen is a cost-effective and safe option for the treatment of patients with WM. Furthermore, the results obtained do not appear to be inferior to those yielded by more expensive, aggressive, and toxic intravenous protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ombretta Annibali
- Dipartimento di Ematologia, Università Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
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31
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Abstract
Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia (WM) is a rare chronic B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder characterized by macroglobulin (immunoglobulin M; IgM) paraproteinemia. The clinical manifestations associated with WM can be related to those of direct organ tumor infiltration, hyperviscosity and tissue deposition of IgM. Treatment must be individualized according to the nature of the clinical manifestations. Plasmapheresis has a role in patients whose symptoms are caused by increased serum viscosity. Chlorambucil was first used with response rates varying between 31% and 72% and is now probably the most commonly used oral agent. Melphalan and cyclophosphamide may have similar clinical efficacy. The addition of corticosteroids does not seem to increase response rates and the use of combination chemotherapy in the first-line setting is not recommended. Fludarabine and cladribine are cross-resistant and induce a response in 30%-60% of patients who have had prior therapy with alkylating agents and as many as 100% of previously untreated patients. Thirty-five percent to 50% of patients respond to single rituximab therapy, with limited toxicity. There are no data from prospective randomized studies to guide the choice between alkylating agents, nucleoside analogues, and rituximab for first-line therapy of WM. Autologous and allogeneic stem cell transplantation may be considered for patients with primary refractory/relapsing disease, especially in the younger age groups. Thalidomide alone or in combination with steroids/clarithromycin may be a useful salvage regimen for some heavily pretreated patients with cytopenia, even though toxicity is considerable. Splenectomy is rarely indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magnus Björkholm
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Karolinska Hospital, SE 17176, Stockholm, Sweden.
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32
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Abstract
Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia is a rare form of indolent lymphoma characterized by the production of a monoclonal immunoglobulin M protein, and complications such as hyperviscosity, cytopenias and peripheral neuropathy. Conventional treatment approaches are based on alkylators or nucleoside analogs, but in the absence of a clearly superior regimen, a broad array of alternative therapies exists. Choices range from biological agents to combination chemotherapy to stem-cell transplantation. A rational approach therefore must be based on careful patient assessment and individualization of therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- C I Chen
- Princess Margaret Hospital/Ontario Cancer Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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33
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Abstract
AbstractPrimary systemic amyloidosis is an immunoglobulin light chain disorder that is 1/5th as common as multiple myeloma. Amyloidosis is regularly seen in the practice of a hematologist and has recently undergone major advances in terms of the ability to evaluate responses as well as new therapeutic options that were not available when this topic was covered as an education session at the American Society of Hematology meeting 5 years ago. Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) is rarer than amyloidosis (1500 per year WM versus 3000 per year amyloid in the US), and recent consensus panels have established the definition of the disease, the diagnostic criteria, criteria for initiation of therapy and a new classification scheme. In this session, new developments in amyloid and macroglobulinemia, from suspicion of the diagnosis to treatment, are covered.In Section I, Dr. Morie Gertz answers four specific questions: (1) When should amyloidosis be suspected? (2) How does one heighten ones index of suspicion for amyloid? (3) How is the diagnosis confirmed and the type classified as primary? (4) What is the prognosis and how is it accurately assessed? Recent findings on cardiac biomarkers, presenting features and use of the free light chain assay are reviewed. Staging for amyloid and recently proposed criteria of response and progression are covered.In Section II, Dr. Giampaolo Merlini comprehensively reviews therapy of amyloidosis from the use of standard melphalan/prednisone to the recently described standard dose therapies including dexamethasone, thalidomide/dexamethasone, melphalan/dexamethasone and IV melphalan/dexamethasone. An extensive discussion of the role of high-dose therapy with stem cell reconstitution follows and includes patient selection, predictors of immediate morbidity and mortality, and survival expectation. Finally, a therapeuitc strategy is proposed.In Section III, Drs. Steven Treon and Giampaolo Merlini review the most current information on WM. The consensus panel results and recommendations of the clinical pathologic definition of WM, the prognostic markers and the indications to initiate therapy in WM, the uniform response criteria in WM and available treatments for the disease are reviewed. Drs. Treon and Merlini cover recently published treatment protocols that use rituximab, purine nucleoside analogs, and alkylating agents. The current data on thalidomide, alpha interferon, and high-dose therapy are also covered.
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34
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Abstract
Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) is a lymphoid neoplasm characterised by a monoclonal lymphoplasmacytic expansion accompanied by a serum monoclonal immunoglobulin M (IgM). In some patients, the monoclonal protein will lead to a characteristic hyperviscosity syndrome. Although indolent, WM is incurable and most patients eventually succumb to disease progression. Thus, we need to better understand the natural history and biology of the disease. Recent work has shown that half of patients with WM harbour deletions in the long arm of chromosome 6. Increasing evidence suggests the disease is a defined pathological entity and not purely a clinical syndrome. Current therapeutic modalities include alkylator agents, purine nucleoside analogues, and rituximab. The optimum initial therapeutic strategy is not yet defined, and current clinical trials are addressing the role of combination therapy. In this review, we summarise the current understanding of the pathogenesis, clinical and laboratory features, prognostic factors, and therapeutic options for patients with WM. We also discuss current knowledge of WM and available therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene M Ghobrial
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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35
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Dhodapkar MV, Jacobson JL, Gertz MA, Crowley JJ, Barlogie B. Prognostic factors and response to fludarabine therapy in Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia: an update of a US intergroup trial (SW0G S9003). Semin Oncol 2003; 30:220-5. [PMID: 12720140 DOI: 10.1053/sonc.2003.50050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
We report an update on a prospective observational trial for Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia (WM) that called for re-registration to treatment with fludarabine (30 mg/m(2)) upon the development of symptomatic or progressive disease. Patients who did not require therapy for more than 1 year (n = 54) could be distinguished from the 118 untreated patients requiring immediate therapy on the basis of hemoglobin, serum beta(2)-microglobulin (beta2m), C-reactive protein (CRP), albumin, and IgM levels, and lower incidence of extramedullary infiltration. Overall response rate (>or= partial response [PR]) to fludarabine was 38%, with 2% complete remissions (CRs). Event-free and overall survivals were significantly longer in the presence of lower levels of serum beta2m in all cohorts. Using time-dependent covariates, neither the occurrence of response (>or= PR) nor the time to response was associated with superior overall or event-free survival. These data support serum beta2m as the dominant prognostic indicator in WM, and show that this factor alone can provide valuable disease risk assessment. Response to therapy using current criteria is not a reliable predictor for survival in this disease.
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36
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Abstract
Waldenström's macroglobulinaemia is a rare B-cell malignancy. It is prevalent in the sixth and seventh decades, the median age at diagnosis being 63 years. Conventional treatment has involved alkylator therapy, especially chlorambucil given daily at a low dose or intermittently at a higher dose. Purine analogues, used initially as salvage therapy in refractory disease, are increasingly used for initial therapy. However, purine analogue therapy entails significant complications, including immunosuppression, pancytopenia and autoimmune haemolysis. Moreover, it is unclear whether purine analogues extend survival. All of these need to be considered before initiation of therapy. More recently, anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody and thalidomide have been used with a 30% response in treated patients. High-dose therapy with stem cell support achieves a partial response in a majority of patients receiving this modality of therapy. The median survival of 5 years has not improved considerably since the introduction of purine analogues. Complete response is still uncommon; using all available modalities of therapy may increase the complete response rate and improve survival. Great strides in understanding the malignant cell, the microenvironment and the potential interactions have identified potential targets for therapy in multiple myeloma. These agents may also be useful in Waldenström's macroglobulinaemia. Since this is a rare malignancy, all patients should be treated with well-designed clinical protocols to achieve improvement in outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raman Desikan
- Myeloma and Transplant Service, Saint Vincent's Comprehensive Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA.
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37
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Abstract
Waldenström's macroglobulinaemia (WM) is most usefully defined as a distinct chronic lymphoproliferative disorder with characteristic marrow morphology and phenotype; although nodal morphology if available will reveal a lymphoplasmacytoid lymphoma, the presence of a significant IgM paraprotein defines the clinical features of the disease. The clonal cell is a B-cell expressing IgM, CD19, and CD20 but not IgD, CD5, CD10 or CD23 and has somatic hypermutation of immunoglobulin heavy chain variable regions consistent with a post-germinal centre origin. Treatment of WM has been dependent on alkylating agents with or without coriticosteroids for many years, supplemented by the use of therapeutic plasmapheresis in the initial stages for patients at risk from the clinical consequences of hyperviscosity. This approach to treatment results in response rates of approximately 60% with a median survival of about 60 months. There is increasing evidence to show that the purine analogues fludarabine and cladribine which are active in the treatment of patients who are resistant to alkylating agents such as chlorambucil may be able to achieve higher response rates when used as initial therapy. A prospective trial is being undertaken to compare fludarabine and chlorambucil as initial treatment; because of the effect of subsequent active treatment on patients who do not respond to the first treatment choice, the long-term outcome may be similar for both groups. Recent advances in therapy include the use of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies such as rituximab and the use of autologous or allogeneic transplant procedures for selected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Johnson
- Taunton & Somerset Hospital, Taunton, Somerset, UK.
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38
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Abstract
Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia is a lymphoplasmacytic disorder characterized by a monoclonal IgM protein, anemia, hepatosplenomegaly, and hyperviscosity. With the increasing use of screening chemistry evaluations, many patients are diagnosed without symptoms and are candidates for observation with no therapeutic intervention until symptoms develop. Plasma exchange can be useful to manage hyperviscosity but does not address the infiltrative process in the bone marrow, which requires cytoreductive therapy. This review covers current regimens that have been used to manage Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia, including alkylating agents, purine nucleoside analogs, and rituximab. The value of steroids, radiotherapy, stem cell transplantation, and splenectomy is also reviewed. The lack of phase III studies does not permit an algorithm that would be appropriate for all patients. Treatment needs to be individualized based on patient age, the clinical manifestations of Waldenström's, and the patient's potential for developing toxic side effects of the selected treatment regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morie A Gertz
- Division of Hematology and Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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39
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Anagnostopoulos A, Giralt S. Stem cell transplantation (SCT) for Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia (WM). Bone Marrow Transplant 2002; 29:943-7. [PMID: 12098060 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bmt.1703580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia (WM) is a low-grade lymphoplasmacytoid malignancy of unknown etiology. It primarily affects elderly patients and is characterized by a monoclonal IgM component, varying degrees of cytopenias, lymphadenopathy and manifestations related to hyperviscosity syndromes. WM is usually treated with single agent nucleoside analogues or alkylating agents that often provide high response rates and durable remissions. Recurrence of the disease after primary therapy is not uncommon, and resistance to both alkylating agents and nucleoside analogs eventually emerges. Small numbers of patients have undergone high-dose chemotherapy (HDC) with either autologous (n = 24) or allogeneic (n = 6) stem cell transplantation (SCT) as treatment for this disease. Most patients in both groups achieved remission. Results are promising and a more in-depth analysis of possible applications of this treatment modality is attempted with this mini-review.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Anagnostopoulos
- Department of Blood and Marrow Transplantation at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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40
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Leblond V, Lévy V, Maloisel F, Cazin B, Fermand JP, Harousseau JL, Remenieras L, Porcher R, Gardembas M, Marit G, Deconinck E, Desablens B, Guilhot F, Philippe G, Stamatoullas A, Guibon O. Multicenter, randomized comparative trial of fludarabine and the combination of cyclophosphamide-doxorubicin-prednisone in 92 patients with Waldenström macroglobulinemia in first relapse or with primary refractory disease. Blood 2001; 98:2640-4. [PMID: 11675332 DOI: 10.1182/blood.v98.9.2640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Few reports are available on the treatment of patients with Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) and primary or secondary resistance to alkylating-agent-based regimens. From December 1993 through December 1997, 92 patients with WM resistant to first-line therapy (42) or with first relapse (50) after alkylating-agent therapy were randomly assigned to receive fludarabine (25 mg/m(2) of body-surface area on days 1-5) or cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin (Adriamycin), and prednisone (CAP; 750 mg/m(2) cyclophosphamide and 25 mg/m(2) doxorubicin on day 1 and 40 mg/m(2) prednisone on days 1-5). The first end point evaluated was the response rate after 6 treatment courses. Forty-five patients received CAP and 45 received fludarabine. Two patients died before the first course of chemotherapy. No statistical differences were observed between the 2 treatment arms with respect to hematologic toxicity or infections. Mucositis and alopecia occurred significantly more often in patients treated with CAP. Partial responses were obtained in 14 patients (30%) treated with fludarabine and 5 patients (11%) treated with CAP (P =.019). Responses were more durable in patients treated with fludarabine (19 months versus 3 months), and the event-free survival rate was significantly higher in this group (P <.01). Forty-four patients died, 22 in the fludarabine group and 22 in the CAP group. There was no statistical difference in the median overall survival time in the 2 study arms. Fludarabine was thus more active than CAP in salvage therapy of WM and should be tested as first-line therapy in a randomized comparison with alkylating agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Leblond
- Département d'hématologie, Hôpital Pitié-Salpétrière, AP-HP, Paris, France.
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41
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Lévy V, Porcher R, Leblond V, Fermand JP, Cazin B, Maloisel F, Harousseau JL, Remenieras L, Guibon O, Chevret S. Evaluating treatment strategies in advanced Waldenström macroglobulinemia: use of quality-adjusted survival analysis. Leukemia 2001; 15:1466-70. [PMID: 11516109 DOI: 10.1038/sj.leu.2402221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
A randomized phase II multicenter clinical trial comparing the efficacy of fludarabine (FAMP) to that of the association of cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and prednisone (CAP) in 92 patients with Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia in first relapse or with primarily resistant disease, was conducted on the behalf of the 'Groupe Coopératif Macroglobulinémie'. The main analysis of this study failed to demonstrate a clear cut benefit of FAMP in terms of overall survival (OS), although a significant benefit in terms of time to disease progression and event-free survival (EFS) was noted. In this rare disorder, where few randomized trials have been conducted, we took advantage of this trial to assess treatment differences while integrating quality of life considerations. We thus performed a quality-adjusted survival analysis, using the quality-adjusted time without symptoms or toxicity (Q-TWiST) approach. Four health states differing in terms of quality of life (QoL) were defined, namely treatment-related toxicity, treatment free of toxicity, no treatment or symptoms, and relapse. The average time spent in these health states (TOX, CT, TWiST and REL, respectively) were then weighted by utility coefficients reflecting relative QoL value according to that of TWiST and summed up giving the so-called Q-TWiST. No difference was found between randomized groups in terms of mean CT. Mean TOX in the two groups were similarly close except when considering alopecia as a relevant toxic event. By contrast, mean TWiST was 5.9 months longer in the FAMP group than in the CAP group (P = 0.006). Unsurprisingly, given the absence of difference in OS but the difference in EFS in favor of the FAMP group, mean REL was increased by 6.8 months in the CAP group (P = 0.047). As a result, benefit of FAMP in terms of average Q-TWiST only relied on the value of the utility coefficient attributed to REL (U(REL)), with a significant benefit when UREL ranged from 0 to 0.28, ie in patients undergoing poor QoL after relapse, which is likely.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Lévy
- Département de Biostatistique et Informatique Médicale, Hĵpital Saint Louis, Paris, France
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Dhodapkar MV, Jacobson JL, Gertz MA, Rivkin SE, Roodman GD, Tuscano JM, Shurafa M, Kyle RA, Crowley JJ, Barlogie B. Prognostic factors and response to fludarabine therapy in patients with Waldenström macroglobulinemia: results of United States intergroup trial (Southwest Oncology Group S9003). Blood 2001; 98:41-8. [PMID: 11418461 DOI: 10.1182/blood.v98.1.41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Current information on Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) is based on retrospective or single-institution studies of patients requiring therapy. Between 1992 and 1998, 231 patients with WM were enrolled in a prospective observational multicenter clinical trial. Of these, 182 patients with symptomatic or progressive disease were treated with 4 to 8 cycles of therapy with a purine nucleoside analogue, fludarabine (FAMP; 30 mg/m(2) of body-surface area daily for 5 days every 28 days). A serum beta2-microglobulin (beta2M) level below 3 mg/L and a hemoglobin level of at least 120 g/L (12 g/dL) at presentation predicted a lower likelihood of requiring therapy. The overall rate of response to FAMP therapy was 36% (95% confidence interval, 29%-44%), with 2% complete remissions. Patients who were 70 years old or older had a substantially lower likelihood of response (odds ratio, 0.34; P =.004) than younger patients. On multivariate analysis, a serum beta2M level of 3 mg/L or higher, hemoglobin level below 120 g/L, and serum IgM level below 40 g/L [4 g/dL] were significant adverse prognostic factors for survival. We developed a simple staging system for WM by using these variables and identified 4 distinct subsets of patients with estimated 5-year overall survival rates of 87%, 64%, 53%, and 22%, and 5-year progression-free survival rates of 83%, 55%, 33%, and 12%. Prognosis in WM is highly variable and serum beta2M was the dominant predictor of a need for therapy and of survival. FAMP has activity against WM. Our staging system may provide guidance for a risk-based approach to the treatment of WM.
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Affiliation(s)
- M V Dhodapkar
- Laboratory of Cellular Physiology and Immunology, Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
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Owen RG. Treatment options in Waldenström's macroglobulinaemia: the role of the purine analogues. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2001; 2:945-52. [PMID: 11585010 DOI: 10.1517/14656566.2.6.945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The purine nucleoside analogues, either alone or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents, are increasingly used in the treatment of patients with indolent B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders. The initial studies in Waldenström's macroglobulinaemia (WM) are very promising. Approximately 40% of patients who have received prior therapy with alkylating agents respond, while response rates of up to 90% have been documented in untreated patients. However, it is not known whether the purine analogues offer any significant advantage over alkylating agents such as chlorambucil. In this review the treatment options in WM and in particular the role of the purine analogues are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- R G Owen
- Department of Haematology, The General Infirmary at Leeds, UK.
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Affiliation(s)
- R G Owen
- Department of Haematology, The General Infirmary at Leeds, UK.
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Abstract
Waldenström's macroglobulinemia is a low-grade lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma. It has an overall incidence of 2.5/million/year. The median age at diagnosis is 63 years. The clinical manifestations are hepatomegaly (20%), splenomegaly (15%), and lymphadenopathy (15%). The most common symptom is fatigue related to a normochromic, normocytic anemia, and the median hemoglobin value at diagnosis is 10 gm/dl. All patients with Waldenström's macroglobulinemia have a circulating tumor marker, the monoclonal IgM protein. Occasionally high levels of the IgM monoclonal protein can produce a hyperviscosity syndrome manifested by oronasal bleeding. Occasionally retinal hemorrhage or serious neurologic complications, such as somnolence or coma, may occur. The most important prognostic factors are hemoglobin, age, weight loss, and a cryoglobulin. Therapy has included alkylating agents, particularly chlorambucil, purine nucleoside analogs such as fludarabine or cladribine, and most recently the use of rituximab. The median survival of symptomatic patients is 65 months. Patients without symptoms should not be treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Gertz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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Tetreault SA, Saven A. Delayed onset of autoimmune hemolytic anemia complicating cladribine therapy for Waldenström macroglobulinemia. Leuk Lymphoma 2000; 37:125-30. [PMID: 10721776 DOI: 10.3109/10428190009057635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic options for patients with Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) now include the purine nucleoside analogues, fludarabine and cladribine. Both these agents have been associated with the onset of severe life-threatening autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). In these reports, AIHA developed within 6 weeks of drug administration and was generally resistant to conventional therapy. AIHA following purine analogues has not been reported in other hematologic malignancies. We report here on 4 patients with WM who developed AIHA following cladribine therapy. Cladribine was administered as a 2-hour infusion at a dose of 0.12 mg/kg per day for 5 consecutive days, at 28-day intervals. The median number of cycles was four (range, 4 to 6). AIHA occurred at a median of 40 months (range, 24 to 60) from cladribine administration. Only 1 patient responded to oral steroids while the other 3 were resistant to multiple therapeutic interventions. Two patients, 1 in complete remission and 1 requiring transfusional support, remain alive, and 2 have died. In contrast to published reports of the early onset of AIHA occurring after purine analogues in CLL patients, we observed AIHA in WM patients as a delayed event.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Tetreault
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Ida M. and Cecil H. Green Cancer Center, Scripps Clinic, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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Kyle RA, Greipp PR, Gertz MA, Witzig TE, Lust JA, Lacy MQ, Therneau TM. Waldenström's macroglobulinaemia: a prospective study comparing daily with intermittent oral chlorambucil. Br J Haematol 2000; 108:737-42. [PMID: 10792277 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2141.2000.01918.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This prospective study compared continuous and intermittent chlorambucil therapy of untreated Waldenström's macroglobulinaemia. The diagnosis was established by the presence of an IgM monoclonal (M-) protein in the serum, an infiltrate of lymphocytes and plasma cells in the bone marrow, anaemia or other laboratory abnormalities, physical findings or constitutional symptoms. Patients were randomized to receive chlorambucil 0.1 mg/kg/d or chlorambucil 0.3 mg/kg/d orally for 7 d, repeated every 6 weeks. Criteria for response included 50% or more reduction of serum M-protein, increase in haemoglobin level of 2 g/dl without transfusion, >/= 50% decrease of urine M-protein, or a reduction of 2 cm in the size of the liver, spleen or lymph nodes. Forty-six patients were randomized to continuous chlorambucil (n = 24) or to intermittent chlorambucil (n = 22). Nineteen (79%) (95% CI = 58-93) of the 24 patients given continuous therapy had an objective improvement by either reduction of serum M-protein or increase in haemoglobin. Fifteen (68%) (95% CI = 45-86) of the 22 patients given chlorambucil intermittently had an objective response. The size of the liver decreased by >/= 2 cm in 55% of patients, and the size of the spleen decreased >/= 2 cm in 67%. Lymphadenopathy decreased in 71%. Acute leukaemia or refractory anaemia developed in four patients. The median duration of survival was 5.4 years, and there was no difference between the regimens. Chlorambucil is effective for the treatment of Waldenström's macroglobulinaemia. Patients must be treated for at least 6 months before therapy is abandoned because response is slow. Chlorambucil is an effective agent and should be compared with purine analogues or rituxan (Rituximab) in a prospective study.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Kyle
- Division of Hematology and Internal Medicine; Section of Biostatistics, Mayo Clinic and Mayo Foundation, Rochester, MN, USA.
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Dimopoulos MA, Panayiotidis P, Moulopoulos LA, Sfikakis P, Dalakas M. Waldenström's macroglobulinemia: clinical features, complications, and management. J Clin Oncol 2000; 18:214-26. [PMID: 10623712 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2000.18.1.214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 221] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To review the clinical features, complications, and treatment of Waldenström's macroglobulinemia, a low-grade lymphoproliferative disorder that produces monoclonal immunoglobulin (Ig) M. METHODS A review of published reports was facilitated by the use of a MEDLINE computer search and by manual search of the Index Medicus. RESULTS The clinical manifestations associated with Waldenström's macroglobulinemia can be classified according to those related to direct tumor infiltration, to the amount and specific properties of circulating IgM, and to the deposition of IgM in various tissues. Asymptomatic patients should be followed without treatment. For symptomatic patients, standard treatment consists primarily of oral chlorambucil; nucleoside analogs, such as fludarabine and cladribine, are effective in one third of previously treated patients and in up to 80% of previously untreated patients. Preliminary evidence suggests that anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody may be active in about 30% of previously treated patients and that high-dose therapy with autologous stem-cell rescue is effective in most patients, including some with resistance to nucleoside analogs. CONCLUSION Waldenström's macroglobulinemia has a wide clinical spectrum that practicing physicians need to recognize early to reach the correct diagnosis. When therapy is indicated, oral chlorambucil is the standard primary treatment, but cladribine or fludarabine can be used when a rapid cytoreduction is desirable. Prospective randomized trials are required to elucidate the impact of nucleoside analogs on patients' survival. A nucleoside analog is the treatment of choice for patients who have been previously treated with an alkylating agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Dimopoulos
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, University of Athens School of Medicine, Athens, Greece.
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Abstract
Waldenström's macroglobulinemia is an unusual low-grade lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma characterized by the production of monoclonal IgM. The clinical manifestations associated with WM can be classified as those related to direct tumor infiltration, by the amount and specific properties of circulating IgM, and by the deposition of IgM in various tissues. Asymptomatic patients should be followed without treatment. The management of the disease relies on the administration of systemic chemotherapy to reduce tumor load and on the application of plasmapheresis to remove circulating IgM. Standard treatment consists of oral chlorambucil, which induces response in at least 50% of patients, resulting in a median survival of approximately 5 years. Nucleoside analogues (cladribine, fludarabine) are effective in most previously untreated patients. These agents are the treatment of choice for patients with disease resistant to alkylating agents. New treatment approaches include high-dose therapy with stem-cell support and administration of monoclonal anti-CD20 antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Dimopoulos
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, University of Athens School of Medicine, Greece
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Delannoy A, Van Den Neste E, Michaux JL, Bosly A, Ferrant A. Cladribine for Waldenström's macroglobulinaemia. Br J Haematol 1999; 104:933-4. [PMID: 10192467 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2141.1999.1331f.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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