Comparative study of immune status to infectious agents in elderly patients with multiple myeloma, Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia, and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance

Improving Influenza Vaccination Coverage in Patients with Cancer: A Position Paper from a Multidisciplinary Expert Group

Patients with cancer can be immunocompromised because of their disease and/or due to anticancer therapy. In this population, severe influenza virus infections are associated with an elevated risk of morbidity and mortality. Influenza vaccination is therefore highly recommended in cancer patients, including those receiving anticancer therapy. However, vaccination coverage remains far below the recommended target for vulnerable subjects. Six specialists in oncology, hematology, immunology, and public health/vaccinology convened with the objective of developing strategies, based on evidence and clinical experience, for improving influenza vaccination coverage in cancer patients. This viewpoint provides an overview of current influenza vaccination recommendations in cancer patients, discusses barriers to vaccination coverage, and presents strategies for overcoming said barriers. New immunization issues raised by the COVID-19 pandemic are also addressed. Future directions include improving public education on influenza vaccination, providing the media with accurate information, improving knowledge among healthcare professionals, improving access to vaccines for cancer patients, co-administration of the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines, increased collaboration between oncologists and other health professionals, increased accessibility of digital vaccination registries to specialists, shared information platforms, and promoting immunization campaigns by healthcare systems with the support of scientific societies.

Laboratory practice is central to earlier myeloma diagnosis: Utilizing a primary care diagnostic tool and laboratory guidelines integrated into haematology services

Treatment advances have greatly improved survival, but myeloma is among the worst of all cancers for delayed diagnosis, causing serious morbidities and early deaths. This delay is largely because the symptom profile of myeloma has very low specificity, and in primary care, myeloma is rare. However, initiating the journey to diagnosis simply requires considering myeloma and sending blood to test for monoclonal immunoglobulin. Laboratory tests reliably detect monoclonal immunoglobulin, which is present in 99% of myeloma cases, so why do health care systems have such a problem with delayed diagnosis? The Myeloma UK early diagnosis programme has brought together diverse expertise to investigate this problem, and this article was prepared by the programme's working group for laboratory best practice. It reviews evidence for test requesting, analysis and reporting, for which there is large variation in practice across the United Kingdom. It presents a 'GP Myeloma diagnostic tool' and how it can be integrated into laboratory practice alongside a laboratory best practice tool. It proposes improved requesting and integration with haematology services for reporting and interpretation. Here the laboratory has a central role in creating efficient and cost-effective pathways for appropriate and timely bone marrow examination for myeloma diagnosis.

Fatal Human Rabies Infection With Suspected Host-Mediated Failure of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Following a Recognized Zoonotic Exposure-Minnesota, 2021

BACKGROUND

No human rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) failure has been documented in the United States using modern cell culture-based vaccines. In January 2021, an 84-year-old male died from rabies 6 months after being bitten by a rabid bat despite receiving timely rabies PEP. We investigated the cause of breakthrough infection.

METHODS

We reviewed medical records, laboratory results, and autopsy findings and performed whole-genome sequencing (WGS) to compare patient and bat virus sequences. Storage, administration, and integrity of PEP biologics administered to the patient were assessed; samples from leftover rabies immunoglobulin were evaluated for potency. We conducted risk assessments for persons potentially exposed to the bat and for close patient contacts.

RESULTS

Rabies virus antibodies present in serum and cerebrospinal fluid were nonneutralizing. Antemortem blood testing revealed that the patient had unrecognized monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance. Autopsy findings showed rabies meningoencephalitis and metastatic prostatic adenocarcinoma. Rabies virus sequences from the patient and the offending bat were identical by WGS. No deviations were identified in potency, quality control, administration, or storage of administered PEP. Of 332 persons assessed for potential rabies exposure to the case patient, 3 (0.9%) warranted PEP.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first reported failure of rabies PEP in the Western Hemisphere using a cell culture-based vaccine. Host-mediated primary vaccine failure attributed to previously unrecognized impaired immunity is the most likely explanation for this breakthrough infection. Clinicians should consider measuring rabies neutralizing antibody titers after completion of PEP if there is any suspicion for immunocompromise.

Clinical Features and Risk Stratification of Multiple Myeloma Patients with COVID-19

SARS-CoV-2 infection often results in a more severe COVID-19 disease course in multiple myeloma (MM) patients compared to immunocompetent individuals. The aim of this report is to summarize the clinical features of the MM patients with COVID-19 and the impact of MM treatment on outcomes to guide risk stratification and ensure the appropriate management of the patients. Serological responses in MM patients post-infection or -vaccination are also reviewed to better understand the strategy of prevention. Along with reports from the literature, we presented findings from a retrospective analysis of the clinical characteristics and outcomes of COVID-19 infection in MM patients in our institution. Study population includes 34 MM patients with a median age of 61 (range: 35-82 years) who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 between 1 March 2020-15 August 2021. We examined the effect of chemotherapy, the benefit of neutralizing monoclonal antibody (Bamlanivimab) and the impact of anti-CD38 antibody (daratumumab) on the hospitalization and mortality of the patients, as well as the efficacy of native antibody production. Our results showed that MM patients have increased hospitalization and mortality rates from COVID-19 compared with that of general population, especially those on active chemotherapy. Advanced age, high-risk myeloma, renal disease, and suboptimal disease control are independent predictors of adverse outcomes. The use of daratumumab does not increase the disease severity/hospitalization or the post-infection/vaccination seropositivity of SARS-CoV-2. The neutralizing antibody decreases overall mortality. Evidence from the current study and previous publications suggest that testing of neutralizing antibody post-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in MM patients may be needed in reducing COVID-19 risk.

Vaccinations in hematological patients in the era of target therapies: Lesson learnt from SARS-CoV-2

Novel targeting agents for hematologic diseases often exert on- or off-target immunomodulatory effects, possibly impacting on response to anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations and other vaccines. Agents that primarily affect B cells, particularly anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs), Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and anti-CD19 chimeric antigen T-cells, have the strongest impact on seroconversion. JAK2, BCL-2 inhibitors and hypomethylating agents may hamper immunity but show a less prominent effect on humoral response to vaccines. Conversely, vaccine efficacy seems not impaired by anti-myeloma agents such as proteasome inhibitors and immunomodulatory agents, although lower seroconversion rates are observed with anti-CD38 and anti-BCMA MoAbs. Complement inhibitors for complement-mediated hematologic diseases and immunosuppressants used in aplastic anemia do not generally affect seroconversion rate, but the extent of the immune response is reduced under steroids or anti-thymocyte globulin. Vaccination is recommended prior to treatment or as far as possible from anti-CD20 MoAb (at least 6 months). No clearcut indications for interrupting continuous treatment emerged, and booster doses significantly improved seroconversion. Cellular immune response appeared preserved in several settings.

Immunogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in patients with multiple myeloma: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Patients with multiple myeloma (MM) have a diminished immune response to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines. Risk factors for an impaired immune response are yet to be determined. We aimed to summarize the COVID-19 vaccine immunogenicity and to identify factors that influence the humoral immune response in patients with MM. Two reviewers independently conducted a literature search in MEDLINE, Embase, ISI Web of Science, Cochrane library, and Clinicaltrials.gov from existence until 24 May 24 2022. (PROSPERO: CRD42021277005). A total of 15 studies were included in the systematic review and 5 were included in the meta-analysis. The average rate (range) of positive functional T-lymphocyte response was 44.2% (34.2%-48.5%) after 2 doses of messenger RNA (mRNA) COVID-19 vaccines. The average antispike antibody response rates (range) were 42.7% (20.8%-88.5%) and 78.2% (55.8%-94.2%) after 1 and 2 doses of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, respectively. The average neutralizing antibody response rates (range) were 25% (1 study) and 62.7% (53.3%-68.6%) after 1 and 2 doses of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, respectively. Patients with high-risk cytogenetics or receiving anti-CD38 therapy were less likely to have a humoral immune response with pooled odds ratios of 0.36 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.18, 0.69), I2 = 0% and 0.42 (95% CI, 0.22, 0.79), I2 = 14%, respectively. Patients who were not on active MM treatment were more likely to respond with pooled odds ratio of 2.42 (95% CI, 1.10, 5.33), I2 = 7%. Patients with MM had low rates of humoral and cellular immune responses to the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal doses of vaccines and evaluate the use of monoclonal antibodies for pre-exposure prophylaxis in this population.

Efficacy of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with monoclonal gammopathies: A cross sectional study

SARS-CoV-2 vaccination is the most effective strategy to protect individuals with haematologic malignancies against severe COVID-19, while eliciting limited vaccine responses. We characterized the humoral responses following 3 mo after mRNA-based vaccines in individuals at different plasma-cell disease stages: monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM), and multiple myeloma on first-line therapy (MM), compared with a healthy population. Plasma samples from uninfected MM patients showed lower SARS-CoV-2-specific antibody levels and neutralization capacity compared with MGUS, SMM, and healthy individuals. Importantly, COVID-19 recovered MM individuals presented significantly higher plasma neutralization capacity compared with their uninfected counterparts, highlighting that hybrid immunity elicit stronger immunity even in this immunocompromised population. No differences in the vaccine-induced humoral responses were observed between uninfected MGUS, SMM and healthy individuals. In conclusion, MGUS and SMM patients could be SARS-CoV-2 vaccinated following the vaccine recommendations for the general population, whereas a tailored monitoring of the vaccine-induced immune responses should be considered in uninfected MM patients.

Immunoglobulin substitution in patients with secondary antibody deficiency in chronic lymphocytic leukemia and multiple myeloma: a representative analysis of guideline adherence and infections

INTRODUCTION

In secondary immunodeficiency, immunoglobulin replacement therapy (IgRT) is recommended by guidelines (GL) for patients with IgG level < 4 g/l and more than 3 infections or a severe infection. IgRT may be appropriate if IgG level < 4 g/l and/or 1-3 less severe infections (≤ grade 2).

METHODS

This was a retrospective sample analysis representative for practices and hospitals in Germany. The treatments and infection data were collected from patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and multiple myeloma (MM). GL adherence (GLAD) was analyzed.

RESULTS

Data from 1086 patients (CLL 490, MM 596) were collected from 86 centers. Of all patients, 34.8% developed IgG deficiency during therapy (CLL 35.5%; MM 34.2%). IgRT was given in 23.5% of CLL and 14.4% of MM patients. GLAD in hypogammaglobulinemia and indication to IgRT was 23.3% of 86 CLL and 22.1% of 77 MM patients. Without GLAD, the hazard ratio (HR) for any infection was 4.49 (95% CI 3.72-5.42; p < 0.001) and for severe infections (grade ≥ 3) 10.64 (95% CI 7.54-15.00; p < 0.001). Significant independent risk factors for infections were a higher Charlson Comorbidity Index, IgG deficiency, and 3rd + line treatment, as well as therapy with BTK inhibitors or chemotherapy in CLL. Multivariable analysis showed a significantly lower risk of severe infections after start of IgRT with a HR of 0.47 (95% CI 0.28-0.77; p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Guideline adherence correlated with fewer and less severe infections but was low in patients with indication to IgRT. Risk factors for infection can be identified. Risk of severe infections was significantly lower in patients with IgRT.

Elsberg Syndrome, Lumbosacral Radiculopathy, and Myelitis Due to Herpes Zoster in a Patient With Smoldering Myeloma

Herpes zoster (HZ) is a common illness caused by the reactivation of latent varicella zoster virus (VZV) due to waning immunity, often secondary to old age or an underlying immunocompromised state. Its complications can manifest in variety of ways, including persistent neuralgias, vasculopathies, and stroke. Here, we describe a case of a 45-year-old man with a history of cryptogenic stroke and smoldering myeloma who was admitted with sacral HZ complicated by right lumbosacral radiculopathy and myelitis, otherwise known as Elsberg syndrome (ES). He was found to have an enhancing lesion in the peripheral conus medullaris on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with nonspecific inflammation and necrosis on biopsy pathology and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positive for VZV. The patient was initially treated with intravenous acyclovir and dexamethasone and discharged with a steroid taper and indefinite valacyclovir therapy. Twelve months postdischarge, the patient’s right lumbosacral radiculopathy and myelitis had almost completely resolved; however, he continued to require bladder self-catheterization. We believe that the patient’s underlying smoldering myeloma lead to an immunocompromised state, allowing for reactivation of latent VZV, resulting in both the patient’s cryptogenic stroke years earlier and recent ES.

COVID-19 vaccination in patients with multiple myeloma: a consensus of the European Myeloma Network

Patients with multiple myeloma frequently present with substantial immune impairment and an increased risk for infections and infection-related mortality. The risk for infection with SARS-CoV-2 virus and resulting mortality is also increased, emphasising the importance of protecting patients by vaccination. Available data in patients with multiple myeloma suggest a suboptimal anti-SARS-CoV-2 immune response, meaning a proportion of patients are unprotected. Factors associated with poor response are uncontrolled disease, immunosuppression, concomitant therapy, more lines of therapy, and CD38 antibody-directed and B-cell maturation antigen-directed therapy. These facts suggest that monitoring the immune response to vaccination in patients with multiple myeloma might provide guidance for clinical management, such as administration of additional doses of the same or another vaccine, or even temporary treatment discontinuation, if possible. In those who do not exhibit a good response, prophylactic treatment with neutralising monoclonal antibody cocktails might be considered. In patients deficient of a SARS-CoV-2 immune response, adherence to measures for infection risk reduction is particularly recommended. This consensus was generated by members of the European Multiple Myeloma Network and some external experts. The panel members convened in virtual meetings and conducted an extensive literature research and evaluated recently published data and work presented at meetings, as well as findings from their own studies. The outcome of the discussions on establishing consensus recommendations for COVID-19 vaccination in patients with multiple myeloma was condensed into this Review.

Secondary Immunodeficiency in Hematological Malignancies: Focus on Multiple Myeloma and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Secondary immunodeficiency is reported in most patients with hematological malignancies such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia and multiple myeloma. The aim of our review was to evaluate the existing literature data on patients with hematological malignancies, with regard to the effect of immunodeficiency on the outcome, the clinical and therapeutic approach, and on the onset of noninfectious complications, including thrombosis, pleural effusion, and orofacial complications. Immunodeficiency in these patients has an intense impact on their risk of infection, in turn increasing morbidity and mortality even years after treatment completion. However, these patients with increased risk of severe infectious diseases could be treated with adequate vaccination coverage, but the vaccines' administration can be associated with a decreased immune response and an augmented risk of adverse reactions. Probably, immunogenicity of the inactivated is analogous to that of healthy subjects at the moment of vaccination, but it undertakes a gradual weakening over time. However, the dispensation of live attenuated viral vaccines is controversial because of the risk of the activation of vaccine viruses. A particular immunization schedule should be employed according to the clinical and immunological condition of each of these patients to guarantee a constant immune response without any risks to the patients' health.

Supportive care in multiple myeloma: Current practices and advances

Supportive care in multiple myeloma (MM) can have a major impact on quality of life and the survival outcomes of MM patients. In this review, we will focus on disease and treatment related toxicities experienced by MM patients and what are the best approaches to date to help mitigate the effects. We will specifically focus on a practical approach to managing bone disease, thrombosis, infection risk, peripheral neuropathy, dermatologic complications, gastrointestinal and ocular toxicities, and fatigue in MM.

Humoral response rate and predictors of response to BNT162b2 mRNA COVID19 vaccine in patients with multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma (MM) patients are at excess risk for clinically significant COVID19 infection. BNT162b2 mRNA COVID19 (BNT162b2) vaccine provides effective protection against COVID19 for the general population, yet its effect in MM patients may be compromised due to disease and therapy‐related factors and was not yet evaluated. This single‐centre prospective study included MM patients tested for serological response 14–21 days post second vaccine. Vaccinated healthy volunteers served as controls. In all, 171 MM patients, median age 70 (38–94) were included; 159 active MM and 12 smouldering myeloma (SMM). Seropositive response rate (median titer) was 76% (91 U/ml) in active MM patients vs 98% (992 U/ml) in the 64 controls (P < 0·0001), and 100% (822 U/ml) in SMM patients. Multivariate analysis revealed older age (P = 0·009), exposure to ≥4 novel anti‐myeloma drugs (P = 0·02) and hypogammaglobulinaemia (P = 0·002) were associated with lower response rates. None of the novel agents significantly decreased response rate, whereas daratumumab trended towards reduced response (P = 0·08). Adverse events occurred in 53% and 55% of the MM patients and controls, respectively, all transient grade 1–2. In conclusion, BNT162b2 vaccine was safe and provided a high seropositivity rate in MM patients, independent of treatment type. Older, hypogammaglobulinaemic and heavily pretreated patients had lower response rates.

Antibodies against vaccine-preventable infections after CAR-T cell therapy for B cell malignancies

BACKGROUND

Little is known about pathogen-specific humoral immunity after chimeric antigen receptor–modified T (CAR-T) cell therapy for B cell malignancies.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective cross-sectional study of CD19-targeted or B cell maturation antigen–targeted (BCMA-targeted) CAR-T cell therapy recipients at least 6 months posttreatment and in remission. We measured pathogen-specific IgG against 12 vaccine-preventable infections and the number of viral and bacterial epitopes to which IgG was detected (“epitope hits”) using a serological profiling assay. The primary outcome was the proportion of participants with IgG levels above a threshold correlated with seroprotection for vaccine-preventable infections.

RESULTS

We enrolled 65 children and adults a median of 20 months after CD19- (n = 54) or BCMA- (n = 11) CAR-T cell therapy. Among 30 adults without IgG replacement therapy (IGRT) in the prior 16 weeks, 27 (90%) had hypogammaglobulinemia. These individuals had seroprotection to a median of 67% (IQR, 59%–73%) of tested infections. Proportions of participants with seroprotection per pathogen were comparable to population-based studies, but most individuals lacked seroprotection to specific pathogens. Compared with CD19-CAR-T cell recipients, BCMA-CAR-T cell recipients were half as likely to have seroprotection (prevalence ratio, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.18–1.25) and had fewer pathogen-specific epitope hits (mean difference, –90 epitope hits; 95% CI, –157 to –22).

CONCLUSION

Seroprotection for vaccine-preventable infections in adult CD19-CAR-T cell recipients was comparable to the general population. BCMA-CAR-T cell recipients had fewer pathogen-specific antibodies. Deficits in both groups support the need for vaccine and immunoglobulin replacement therapy studies.

FUNDING

Swiss National Science Foundation (Early Postdoc Mobility grant P2BSP3_188162), NIH/National Cancer Institute (NIH/NCI) (U01CA247548 and P01CA018029), NIH/NCI Cancer Center Support Grants (P30CA0087-48 and P30CA015704-44), American Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, and Juno Therapeutics/BMS.

In this prospective study, we investigated antibodies against vaccine-preventable infections and other pathogen-specific antibodies in individuals with remission after CAR-T cell therapy for B lineage malignancies.

Pneumococcal Bacteremia and Cryptococcal Meningitis Dual Infection in a Patient With Multiple Myeloma

Infections remain one of the major complications in patients with multiple myeloma, having a significant impact on morbidity and mortality. The increased risk of infection in these patients are a result of various factors contributing to the impairment of immune system caused by the disease and the chemotherapy regimens given during the treatment phases. Here we report a rare case of pneumococcal bacteraemia and cryptococcal meningitis dual infection in a patient with underlying multiple myeloma who had a favourable clinical outcome. This case also serves to highlight the importance of adult vaccinations especially in patients with underlying comorbidities.

Vaccination during the First Diagnosis of Multiple Myeloma: A Cohort Study of the French National Health Insurance Database

Purpose: Infections are frequent and often result in serious complications in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). Prophylactic vaccination is recommended for influenza virus, Streptococcus pneumoniae (SP), and Hemophilus influenzaeb (Hib). The aims of this study were to measure the vaccination rates within 24 months after the diagnosis of multiple myeloma and to identify factors associated with vaccine use. Methods: MM patients were selected through the French national health insurance database from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2015. Patients with a previous history of MM were excluded. Results: Vaccination rates against influenza, SP, and Hib among 22,831 newly diagnosed MM patients were, respectively, 28.5%, 10.3%, and 1.4%. Only 0.7% received all three vaccines. Factors associated with vaccination were young age, male gender, an absence of comorbidity, a history of higher medication and vaccine consumption, Herpes simplex virus (HSV), Varicella zoster virus (VZV), and the use of pneumocystis prophylaxis. Conclusion: The low rates of vaccination indicate the need to improve physician and MM patient adherence and education regarding vaccination.

Anti-bacterial antibodies in multiple myeloma patients at disease presentation, in response to therapy and in remission: implications for patient management

Multiple myeloma (MM) is associated with increased risk of infection, but little is known regarding antibody levels against specific bacteria. We assessed levels of polyclonal immunoglobulin and antibacterial antibodies in patients recruited to the TEAMM trial, a randomised trial of antibiotic prophylaxis at the start of anti-myeloma treatment. Polyclonal IgG, IgA and IgM levels were below the reference range in 71%, 83% and 90% of 838 MM patients at diagnosis. Anti-vaccine targeted tetanus toxoid antibodies were protective in 95% of 193 healthy controls but only 41% of myeloma patients. In healthy controls, protective antibodies against 6/12 pneumococcal serotypes, haemophilus and meningococcus A were present in 67%, 41% and 56% compared to just 15%, 21% and 17% of myeloma patients. By 1 year, myeloma patients IgG levels had recovered for 57% of patients whilst the proportion with protective levels of IgG against thymus-dependent protein antigen tetanus toxoid had changed little. In contrast the proportions of patients with protective levels against thymus independent polysaccharide antigens pneumococcus, haemophilus and meningococcus had fallen from 15 to 7%, 21 to 0% and 17 to 11%. Findings highlight the need for strategies to protect patients against bacterial infections during therapy and vaccination programmes during remission.

Secondary immunodeficiencies with predominant antibody deficiency: multidisciplinary perspectives of Polish experts

At present, secondary immune deficiencies have become a clinical problem, recognized in different specialties. The aim of this paper was to increase awareness and support the need for screening at-risk populations. Secondary immune deficiencies result in variety of conditions, but not all of them require immunoglobulin replacement therapy, as specific antibody response might be preserved. Moreover, the management of secondary immune deficiencies vary between countries and different medical disciplines. This literature review presents the most common causes and clinical presentation of secondary immunodeficiencies with predominant impaired antibody production. We present diagnostic guidelines for patients at-risk, with an emphasis on the role of prophylactic vaccination as a treatment and diagnostic tool. This review considers the specificity and disparities of the Polish healthcare system and ultimately, suggests that management teams should include a clinical immunologist experienced in the treatment of humoral immunodeficiencies.

Recommendations for vaccination in multiple myeloma: a consensus of the European Myeloma Network

Vaccination is one of the most successful medical interventions that has saved the life of millions of people. Vaccination is particularly important in patients with multiple myeloma, who have an increased risk of infections due to the disease-inherent immune suppression, and because of the immune suppressive effects of therapy. Hence, all appropriate measures should be exploited, to elicit an effective immune response to common pathogens like influenza, pneumococci, varicella zoster virus, and to those bacteria and viruses (haemophilus influenzae, meningococci, and hepatitis) that frequently may pose a significant risk to patients with multiple myeloma. Patients after autologous, and specifically after allogeneic transplantation have severely reduced antibody titers, and therefore require a broader spectrum of vaccinations. Response to vaccination in myeloma often is less vigorous than in the general population, mandating either measurement of the postvaccination antibody titers and/or repeating the vaccination. Here, we compile the existing data on vaccination in multiple myeloma and provide recommendations for clinical practice.

Management of multiple myeloma during COVID-19 pandemic

At the end of 2019, a novel coronavirus was identified as the cause of pneumonia cases in Wuhan, a city in the Hubei Province of China. On January 30, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the COVID-19 outbreak a public health emergency of international concern and, in March 2020, began to characterize it as a pandemic. The virus that causes COVID-19 is designated severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) In February 2020, the World Health Organization designated the disease COVID-19, which stands for coronavirus disease 2019.

Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS)-Not So Asymptomatic after All

Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS) is considered to be a benign precursor condition that may progress to a lymphoproliferative disease or multiple myeloma. Most patients do not progress to an overt condition, but nevertheless, MGUS is associated with a shortened life expectancy and, in a minority of cases, a number of co-morbid conditions that include an increased fracture risk, renal impairment, peripheral neuropathy, secondary immunodeficiency, and cardiovascular disease. This review aims to consolidate current evidence for the significance of these co-morbidities before considering how best to approach these symptoms and signs, which are often encountered in primary care or within a number of specialties in secondary care.

Cause-specific mortality in individuals with lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma/Waldenström macroglobulinaemia, 2000-2016

Data on cause-specific mortality after lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (LPL) and Waldenström macroglobulinaemia (WM) are lacking. We identified causes of death amongst 7289 adults diagnosed with incident first primary LPL (n = 3108) or WM (n = 4181) during 2000-2016 in 17 USA population-based cancer registries. Based on 3132 deaths, 16-year cumulative mortality was 23·2% for lymphomas, 8·4% for non-lymphoma cancers and 14·7% for non-cancer causes for patients aged <65 years at diagnosis of LPL/WM, versus 33·4%, 11·2% and 48·7%, respectively, for those aged ≥75 years. Compared with the general population, patients with LPL/WM had a 20% higher risk of death due to non-cancer causes (n = 1341 deaths, standardised mortality ratio [SMR] 1·2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1·1-1·2), most commonly from infectious (n = 188; SMR 1·8, 95% CI 1·6-2·1), respiratory (n = 143; SMR 1·2, 95% CI 1·0-1·4), and digestive (n = 80; SMR 1·8, 95% CI 1·4-2·2) diseases, but no excess mortality from cardiovascular diseases (n = 477, SMR 1·1, 95% CI 1·0-1·1). Risks were highest for non-cancer causes within 1 year of diagnosis (n = 239; SMR_<1year 1·3, 95% CI 1·2-1·5), declining thereafter (n = 522; SMR_≥5years 1·1, 95% CI 1·1-1·2). Myelodysplastic syndrome/acute myeloid leukaemia deaths were notably increased (n = 46; SMR 4·4, 95% CI 3·2-5·9), whereas solid neoplasm deaths were only elevated among ≥5-year survivors (n = 145; SMR_≥5years 1·3, 95% CI 1·1-1·5). This work identifies new areas for optimising care and reducing mortality for patients with LPL/WM.

High-density neutrophils in MGUS and multiple myeloma are dysfunctional and immune-suppressive due to increased STAT3 downstream signaling

To understand neutrophil impairment in the progression from MGUS through active MM, we investigated the function of mature, high-density neutrophils (HDNs), isolated from peripheral blood. In 7 MM, 3 MGUS and 3 healthy subjects by gene expression profile, we identified a total of 551 upregulated and 343 downregulated genes in MM-HDN, involved in chemokine signaling pathway and FC-gamma receptor mediated phagocytosis conveying in the activation of STAT proteins. In a series of 60 newly diagnosed MM and 30 MGUS patients, by flow-cytometry we found that HDN from MM, and to a lesser extend MGUS, had an up-regulation of the inducible FcγRI (also known as CD64) and a down-regulation of the constitutive FcγRIIIa (also known as CD16) together with a reduced phagocytic activity and oxidative burst, associated to increased immune-suppression that could be reverted by arginase inhibitors in co-culture with lymphocytes. In 43 consecutive newly-diagnosed MM patients, who received first-line treatment based on bortezomib, thalidomide and dexamethasone, high CD64 could identify at diagnosis patients with inferior median overall survival (39.5 versus 86.7 months, p = 0.04). Thus, HDNs are significantly different among healthy, MGUS and MM subjects. In both MGUS and MM neutrophils may play a role in supporting both the increased susceptibility to infection and the immunological dysfunction that leads to tumor progression.

Immunogenicity And Safety Of The 13-Valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine In Patients With Monoclonal Gammopathy Of Undetermined Significance - Relationship With Selected Immune And Clinical Parameters

Purpose

Patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) have an increased risk of developing infections. Streptococcus pneumoniae vaccinations are recommended for immunocompromised patients, including patients with lymphoproliferative disorders such as MGUS. The objective of the study was to assess the immune response to the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) in treatment-naive MGUS patients versus healthy subjects. All study groups were evaluated for the levels of specific pneumococcal antibodies, the levels of IgG and IgG subclasses, and selected peripheral blood lymphocyte subpopulations, including the proportion of plasmablasts before and after immunization.

Patients and methods

A total of 22 previously untreated patients with MGUS and 15 healthy age- and sex-matched volunteers were included in the study. All participants were immunized with PCV13 Prevenar13 (Pfizer). The following parameters were assessed: 1) serum-specific pneumococcal antibody titers before and 30 days after vaccination, 2) percentage of plasmablasts, defined as CD19+/IgD-/CD27++, before and 7 days after vaccination, 3) serum total IgG and IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4 levels before and 30 days after vaccination.

Results and conclusion

PCV13 vaccination in MGUS patients is safe and effectively protects against S. pneumoniae infection. In unvaccinated individuals, vaccination should be carried out as soon as possible after diagnosis. It can protect patients against serious infectious complications, which can contribute to extending the time to progression and transformation into more aggressive diseases. PCV13 vaccination is more effective in MGUS patients with a lower concentration of M protein. Serum M protein concentration in patients diagnosed with MGUS may be a useful predictor of the effectiveness of vaccination.

Response to pneumococcal vaccination in multiple myeloma

Background

Streptococcus pneumoniae infection causes morbidity and mortality in multiple myeloma patients. Pneumococcal vaccination is commonly given to immunocompromised myeloma patients; however response data are sparse. Here, we present longitudinal response data to pneumococcal vaccination in multiple myeloma patients.

Method

Twenty‐eight multiple myeloma patients were included, 25 of whom were newly diagnosed. All the patients received two vaccines Prevnar13® and Pneumo23®. Serotype‐specific IgG was measured by ELISA for all 23 vaccine serotypes at baseline, and then sequentially at different time points postvaccination until treatment ended. Response to vaccination is available for 20 patients. The primary endpoint was the incidence rate of patients who obtained an isotype response serum concentration after vaccination. Secondary endpoints included detailed isotype increase, time to first increase, further assessment of a decreased anti‐pneumococcal serum concentrations following treatment including autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT), rate of infection with a special attention to pneumococcal infection.

Results

The median age was 66 years and the male to female ratio was 0.6. Anti‐pneumococcal capsular polysaccharide (anti‐PCP23) IgG, IgG2, IgA, and IgM responses were detected within 1 week postvaccination. Response to at least one subtype of antibody was obtained in 85% (n = 17) of patients, for at least two subtypes in 65% (n = 13), for at least three subtypes in 55% (n = 11), and 2 patients responded to all four subtypes. The median increase in the concentration of anti‐PCP23 isotypes was threefold following vaccination, with the highest increase observed when Pneumo23® was given more than 30 days after Prevnar13®. The anti‐pneumococcal geometric mean concentration decreased significantly for all subtypes over time independently of treatment approaches.

Conclusion

Myeloma has the ability to demonstrate a response to pneumococcal vaccine, independently of preexisting hypogammaglobulinemia and possibly of treatment‐induced immunodepression. We also observed a drop in the serum response overtime and following autologous transplantation. Further studies in larger sample are needed to understand the benefit of vaccination strategies in these patients.

Vaccination of patients with haematological malignancies who did not have transplantations: guidelines from the 2017 European Conference on Infections in Leukaemia (ECIL 7)

Patients with haematological malignancies are at high risk of infection because of various mechanisms of humoral and cell-mediated immune deficiencies, which mainly depend on underlying disease and specific therapies. Some of these infections are vaccine preventable. However, these malignancies are different from each other, and the treatment approaches are diverse and rapidly evolving, so it is difficult to have a common programme for vaccination in a haematology ward. Additionally, because of insufficient training about the topic, vaccination is an area often neglected by haematologists, and influenced by cultural differences, even among health-care workers, in compliance to vaccines. Several issues are encountered when addressing vaccination in haematology: the small size of the cohorts that makes it difficult to show the clinical benefits of vaccination, the subsequent need to rely on biological parameters, their clinical pertinence not being established in immunocompromised patients, scarcity of clarity on the optimal timing of vaccination in complex treatment schedules, and the scarcity of data on long-term protection in patients receiving treatments. Moreover, the risk of vaccine-induced disease with live-attenuated vaccines strongly limits their use. Here we summarise guidelines for patients without transplantations, and address the issue by the haematological group-myeloid and lymphoid-of diseases, with a special consideration for children with acute leukaemia.

Risk factors for infections in newly diagnosed Multiple Myeloma patients: A Danish retrospective nationwide cohort study

OBJECTIVES

Infections pose the greatest risk of early death in patients with Multiple Myeloma. However, few studies have analyzed the risk factors for infections in Multiple Myeloma patients. The aim of this study was to analyze the risk factors infections within a population-based MM cohort.

METHODS

Using Danish registries (from 2005 to 2013), we analyzed all ICD-10 codes for infections within the first 6 months of Multiple Myeloma diagnosis in 2557 patients.

RESULTS

Pneumonia and sepsis represented 46% of infections. Multivariable regression analysis showed that risk factors for pneumonia were male gender (HR 1.4; P = 0.001), ISS II (HR 1.6; P = 0.0004) and ISSIII (HR 1.8; P = 0.0004) and elevated LDH (HR 2.6; P = 0.0008). Risk factors for sepsis were high bone marrow plasma cell % (HR 1.1; P = 0.038), ISS II (HR 1.7; P = 0.007) ISS III (HR 2.0; P = 0.002) and creatinine (HR 2.1; P = 0.002). Neither immunoparesis (hypogammaglobulinemia) nor comorbidity was significant risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that tumor burden and renal impairment are risk factors for pneumonia and sepsis in the early phase of Multiple Myeloma.

Response to PCV13 vaccination in patients with multiple myeloma versus healthy controls

Infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in individuals with multiple myeloma (MM). These individuals exhibit humoral dysfunction and show a suboptimal response to pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV23). Since pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) elicits a T cell dependent response, it is recommended in patients with multiple myeloma. This study compares the initial response to PCV13 and durability of the response at 6 months in patients with multiple myeloma versus normal controls. Seven patients with multiple myeloma and 18 control patients were enrolled in the study. Streptococcal pneumonia serotype IgG titers were drawn at baseline, day 30, and day 180 after MM patients and controls received PCV13. Although vaccination with PCV13 produced a similar initial response in patients with multiple myeloma compared to control subjects, the duration of response may have waned in patients with multiple myeloma as compared to control subjects.

What is the significance of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance?

Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is characterised by the presence of a monoclonal paraprotein in the blood, without the characteristic end organ damage seen in multiple myeloma. MGUS is more common in older age groups and has a risk of progression to myeloma of 1% per year. Population screening is not currently recommended, but retrospective studies have suggested improvements in myeloma outcomes in those under MGUS follow-up; in addition, MGUS has associated complications, including fracture, osteoporosis, renal disease and infection, which can be treated. Given this increasing evidence of disease related directly to MGUS, strategies for early identification might be needed. In this review, we discuss the complications of MGUS and whether MGUS fulfils the criteria needed to implement a screening programme. We also highlight areas where more evidence is needed, including identification of a higher risk population to make screening more practical and economically viable.

Meningitis, spondylodiscitis, pneumonia and septic shock with Streptococcus pneumoniae in a previously healthy woman with isolated IgG2-, IgG3-, IgA-deficiency and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance

A 66 years old Caucasian woman with pneumococcal meningitis was treated and discharged after an uncomplicated course. Five months later she was readmitted with fever and right side abdominal pain and diagnosed with pneumococcal spondylodiscitis. One year later she was treated for a severe chest X-ray confirmed left lobar pneumonia. Two years later she was diagnosed with a pneumococcal pneumonia in her left lung with septic shock. An immune deficiency screen revealed slightly reduced IgA levels, low IgG2 levels, low IgG3 levels and high IgG1 levels. No other immune defects were identified. She did not respond serologically on vaccination with 13-valent conjugate and 23-valent polysaccharide pneumococcal vaccines. Further evaluations revealed a positive M-component in her blood and a bone marrow biopsy diagnosed her to have monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance. To protect her against future life threatening pneumococcal infections she was started on treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin. The case report illustrates the importance of thorough evaluation of patients with unusual infectious disease entities or unusual frequency of infections in individual patients. To optimize prophylactic measures and active treatment options in the individual patient, it is important to identify underlying causes of diseases and immune deficiencies that potentially can lead to life threatening infections. This is illustrated in our case by an undiagnosed monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance in an apparently healthy woman with at least three life threatening documented pneumococcal infections in a two-year period and poor pneumococcal vaccine response.

The dawn of vaccines for cancer prevention

An important role of the immune system is in the surveillance for abnormal or transformed cells, which is known as cancer immunosurveillance. Through this process, the first changes to normal tissue homeostasis caused by infectious or other inflammatory insults can be detected by the immune system through the recognition of antigenic molecules (including tumour antigens) expressed by abnormal cells. However, as they develop, tumour cells can acquire antigenic and other changes that allow them to escape elimination by the immune system. To bias this process towards elimination, immunosurveillance can be improved by the administration of vaccines based on tumour antigens. Therapeutic cancer vaccines have been extensively tested in patients with advanced cancer but have had little clinical success, which has been attributed to the immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment. Thus, the administration of preventive vaccines at pre-malignant stages of the disease holds promise, as they function before tumour-associated immune suppression is established. Accordingly, immunological and clinical studies are yielding impressive results.

Heavy+light chain monitoring correlates with clinical outcome in multiple myeloma patients

Novel anti-myeloma agents have improved patient response rates, which are historically based on reductions of the M-protein. These methods can be inaccurate for quantifying M-proteins at low concentrations. We compared the consistency and clinical impact of response assignment by electrophoretic and heavy+light chain (HLC) immunoassays post-consolidation in 463 newly diagnosed patients. The two methods gave similar assignments in patients with partial (PR; 79% agreement) or complete response (⩾CR; 92%). However, in patients achieving very good PR (VGPR) there was poor concordance between methods (45%). Median progression-free survival (PFS) for standard VGPR patients was 34.5 months; HLC responses stratified these patients further into PR, VGPR and ⩾CR, with median PFS of 21.3, 28.9 months and not reached, respectively; P<0.001. At this time, abnormal HLC ratios had better concordance with multiparametric flow cytometry (sensitivity 10⁻⁴) (37 and 34% positive, respectively), compared to immunofixation (62% positive). In addition, HLC-pair suppression was identified in 38% of patients and associated with shorter PFS (30.6 months vs not reached; P<0.001). We conclude that HLC monitoring could augment electrophoretic assessments in patients achieving VGPR. The prognostic significance of HLC responses might partly depend on the patients’ ability to recover their immune system, as determined by normalisation of HLC measurements.

Challenges in the Role of Gammaglobulin Replacement Therapy and Vaccination Strategies for Hematological Malignancy

Patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and multiple myeloma (MM) are prone to present with antibody production deficits associated with recurrent or severe bacterial infections that might benefit from human immunoglobulin (Ig) (IVIg/SCIg) replacement therapy. However, the original IVIg trial data were done before modern therapies were available, and the current indications do not take into account the shift in the immune situation of current treatment combinations and changes in the spectrum of infections. Besides, patients affected by other B cell malignancies present with similar immunodeficiency and manifestations while they are not covered by the current IVIg indications. A potential beneficial strategy could be to vaccinate patients at monoclonal B lymphocytosis and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance stages (for CLL and MM, respectively) or at B-cell malignancy diagnosis, when better antibody responses are attained. We have to re-emphasize the need for assessing and monitoring specific antibody responses; these are warranted to select adequately those patients for whom early intervention with prophylactic anti-infective therapy and/or IVIg is preferred. This review provides an overview of the current scenario, with a focus on prevention of infection in patients with hematological malignancies and the role of Ig replacement therapy.

Secondary immunodeficiency in lymphoproliferative malignancies

Secondary immunodeficiencies occur as a consequence of various diseases, including hematological malignancies, and the use of pharmacological therapies, such as immunosuppressive, anti-inflammatory, and biological drugs. Infections are the main cause of morbidity and mortality in multiple myeloma (MM) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients. Recent advances in treatment have prolonged the duration of remission and the time between relapse phases in MM and CLL patients. However, managing multiple relapses and the use of salvage therapies can lead to cumulative immunosuppression and a higher risk of infections. The pathogenesis of immune deficiency secondary to lymphoproliferative malignancy is multifactorial including disease- and treatment-related factors. Supportive treatment, including early vaccination, anti-infective prophylaxis, and replacement immunoglobulin, plays a key role in preventing infections in MM and CLL. This article provides an overview of the basic immunology necessary to understand the pathogenesis of secondary immunodeficiency and the infectious complications in MM and CLL. We also discuss the evidence supporting the role of prophylactic replacement immunoglobulin treatment in patients with antibody failure secondary to MM and CLL and the indications for its use. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Is dosing of therapeutic immunoglobulins optimal? A review of a three-decade long debate in europe

The consumption of immunoglobulins (Ig) is increasing due to better recognition of antibody deficiencies, an aging population, and new indications. This review aims to examine the various dosing regimens and research developments in the established and in some of the relevant off-label indications in Europe. The background to the current regulatory settings in Europe is provided as a backdrop for the latest developments in primary and secondary immunodeficiencies and in immunomodulatory indications. In these heterogeneous areas, clinical trials encompassing different routes of administration, varying intervals, and infusion rates are paving the way toward more individualized therapy regimens. In primary antibody deficiencies, adjustments in dosing and intervals will depend on the clinical presentation, effective IgG trough levels and IgG metabolism. Ideally, individual pharmacokinetic profiles in conjunction with the clinical phenotype could lead to highly tailored treatment. In practice, incremental dosage increases are necessary to titrate the optimal dose for more severely ill patients. Higher intravenous doses in these patients also have beneficial immunomodulatory effects beyond mere IgG replacement. Better understanding of the pharmacokinetics of Ig therapy is leading to a move away from simplistic "per kg" dosing. Defective antibody production is common in many secondary immunodeficiencies irrespective of whether the causative factor was lymphoid malignancies (established indications), certain autoimmune disorders, immunosuppressive agents, or biologics. This antibody failure, as shown by test immunization, may be amenable to treatment with replacement Ig therapy. In certain immunomodulatory settings [e.g., idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)], selection of patients for Ig therapy may be enhanced by relevant biomarkers in order to exclude non-responders and thus obtain higher response rates. In this review, the developments in dosing of therapeutic immunoglobulins have been limited to high and some medium priority indications such as ITP, Kawasaki' disease, Guillain-Barré syndrome, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy, myasthenia gravis, multifocal motor neuropathy, fetal alloimmune thrombocytopenia, fetal hemolytic anemia, and dermatological diseases.

Multiple myeloma and infections: a population-based study on 9253 multiple myeloma patients

Infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with multiple myeloma. To estimate the risk of bacterial and viral infections in multiple myeloma patients, we used population-based data from Sweden to identify all multiple myeloma patients (n=9253) diagnosed from 1988 to 2004 with follow up to 2007 and 34,931 matched controls. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the risk of infections. Overall, multiple myeloma patients had a 7-fold (hazard ratio =7.1; 95% confidence interval = 6.8-7.4) risk of developing any infection compared to matched controls. The increased risk of developing a bacterial infection was 7-fold (7.1; 6.8-7.4), and for viral infections 10-fold (10.0; 8.9-11.4). Multiple myeloma patients diagnosed in the more recent calendar periods had significantly higher risk of infections compared to controls (P<0.001). At one year of follow up, infection was the underlying cause in 22% of deaths in multiple myeloma patients. Mortality due to infections remained constant during the study period. Our findings confirm that infections represent a major threat to multiple myeloma patients. The effect on infectious complications due to novel drugs introduced in the treatment of multiple myeloma needs to be established and trials on prophylactic measures are needed.

Immune defects in the risk of infection and response to vaccination in monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and multiple myeloma

The plasma cell proliferative disorders monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and malignant multiple myeloma (MM) are characterized by an accumulation of transformed clonal plasma cells in the bone marrow and production of monoclonal immunoglobulin. They typically affect an older population, with median age of diagnosis of approximately 70 years. In both disorders, there is an increased risk of infection due to the immunosuppressive effects of disease and conjointly of therapy in MM, and response to vaccination to counter infection is compromised. The underlying factors in a weakened immune response in MGUS and MM are as yet not fully understood. A confounding factor is the onset of normal aging, which quantitatively and qualitatively hampers humoral immunity to affect response to infection and vaccination. In this review, we examine the status of immune alterations in MGUS and MM and set these against normal aging immune responses. We focus primarily on quantitative and functional aspects of B-cell immunity. Furthermore, we review the current knowledge relating to susceptibility to infectious disease in MGUS and MM, and how efficacy of conventional vaccination is affected by proliferative disease-related and therapy-related factors.

Secondary antibody deficiency

Secondary antibody deficiencies are defined by a quantitative or qualitative decrease in antibodies that occur most commonly as a consequence of renal or gastrointestinal immunoglobulin loss, hematological malignancies and corticosteroid, immunosuppressive or anticonvulsant medications. Patients with hematological malignancies or requiring immunosuppressive medications are known to be at increased risk of infection, but few studies directly address this relationship in the context of antibody deficiency. Immunoglobulin replacement therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing infections in primary and some secondary antibody deficiencies. The commonly encountered causes of secondary antibody deficiencies and their association with infection-related morbidity and mortality are discussed. Recommendations are made for screening and clinical management of those at risk.

Community-acquired infections associated with increased risk of lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma/Waldenström macroglobulinaemia

Emerging evidence supports the role of immune stimulation in the development of lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma/Waldenström Macroglobulinaemia (LPL/WM). Using the population-based Surveillance, Epidemiology End Results-Medicare database we investigated the exposure to 14 common community-acquired infections and subsequent risk of LPL/WM in 693 LPL/WM cases and 200 000 controls. Respiratory tract infections, bronchitis [odds ratio (OR) 1·56], pharyngitis (OR 1·43), pneumonia (OR 1·42) and sinusitis (OR 1·33) and skin infection, herpes zoster (OR 1·51) were all significantly associated with subsequent increased risk of LPL/WM. For each of these infections, the findings remained significantly elevated following the exclusion of more than 6 years of Medicare claims data prior to LPL/WM diagnosis. Our findings may support a role for infections in the development of LPL/WM or could reflect an underlying immune disturbance that is present several years prior to diagnosis and thereby part of the natural history of disease progression.

Common community-acquired infections and subsequent risk of multiple myeloma: a population-based study

The role of bacteria and viruses as aetiological agents in the pathogenesis of cancer has been well established for several sites, including a number of haematological malignancies. Less clear is the impact of such exposures on the subsequent development of multiple myeloma (MM). Using the population-based U.S. Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results-Medicare dataset, 15,318 elderly MM and 200,000 controls were identified to investigate the impact of 14 common community-acquired infections and risk of MM. Odds ratios (ORs) and associated 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were adjusted for sex, age and calendar year of selection. The 13-month period prior to diagnosis/selection was excluded. Risk of MM was increased by 5-39% following Medicare claims for eight of the investigated infections. Positive associations were observed for several infections including bronchitis (adjusted OR 1.14, 95% CI 1.09-1.18), sinusitis (OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.10-1.20) pneumonia (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.21-1.33), herpes zoster (OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.29-1.49) and cystitis (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.05-1.14). Each of these infections remained significantly elevated following the exclusion of more than 6 years of claims data. Exposure to infectious antigens may therefore play a role in the development of MM. Alternatively, the observed associations may be a manifestation of an underlying immune disturbance present several years prior to MM diagnosis and thereby part of the natural history of disease progression.

Immune dysfunction in multiple myeloma

SUMMARY Although there have been advances in the field, multiple myeloma, the second most common hematological malignancy, remains an incurable disease characterized by ever-shortening cycles of treatment and relapse. Myriad experimental and observational studies over the last few decades have comprehensively documented a state of profound immune dysfunction, which is progressive and correlated with disease stage. Nonetheless, immune responses against the tumor have demonstrated efficacy ex vivo, in animal models and in human disease. In this review we examine the immune defects in multiple myeloma and consider current and future approaches toward correction and manipulation of immune responses to affect clinically useful antitumor effects.

Risk of invasive Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) disease in adults with secondary immunodeficiency in the post-Hib vaccine era

Prior to the introduction of Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) conjugate vaccines, invasive Hib disease affected almost exclusively children. According to some recent studies, in the postvaccine era, adults, the elderly, and immunocompromised persons can be affected more often than children. As the production of type-specific anti-capsular polysaccharide antibodies is the major defense mechanism against Hib, individuals with defects in humoral immune responses have high susceptibility to infections caused by Hib. We hypothesized that nonvaccinated adults with chronic conditions causing immunosuppression may lack protective antibody to Hib. We assessed serum anti-Hib IgG levels and bactericidal activity in 59 patients with chronic renal failure, 30 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, 28 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and 20 patients with multiple myeloma compared to 32 healthy controls of similar age. Considering antibody at >0.15 μg/ml as the protective correlate in unvaccinated individuals, we detected subprotective Hib antibody levels in 29% of chronic renal failure, 20% of diabetes, 14% of COPD, and 55% of myeloma patients compared to 3% of healthy controls. Additionally, 70% of myeloma and 58% of chronic renal failure patients did not have detectable serum bactericidal activity against Hib. Among individuals with severe diseases causing secondary immunodeficiency, patients with multiple myeloma and chronic renal failure are at an increased risk of invasive Hib disease. Considering that Hib continues to circulate in the population, this study provides a rationale for the immunization of some adult patients with secondary immunodeficiency with the pediatric Hib vaccine to achieve protective immunity.