Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for multiple myeloma beyond 2010

Early M-protein immune reconstitution after autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation is a good prognostic marker for patients with high-risk cytogenetic multiple myeloma

The presence of transient abnormal protein banding (M-protein immune reconstitution) in serum immunofixation electrophoresis after autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation in patients with multiple myeloma has been reported. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of post-transplant M-protein immune reconstitution on the prognosis of patients with multiple myeloma. M-protein immune reconstitution was observed in 25.9% (75/290) of patients. The CR rate and MRD negativity were higher in the M-protein immune reconstitution group (85.3% vs. 69.3%, p = 0.013, 81.9% vs. 66.5%, p = 0.014). Although there were no significant differences between the groups, the overall median survival time was longer in the M-protein immune reconstruction group (80 vs. 72 m, p = 0.076; not reached vs. 105 m, p = 0.312). Among patients in the cytogenetic high-risk group, the occurrence of M-protein immune reconstitution predicted better PFS and OS (80 vs. 31 m, p = 0.010; not reached vs. 91 m, p = 0.026). Additionally, in revised-International Staging System stage III patients, PFS and OS were better in those who achieved M-protein immune reconstitution (80 vs. 20 m, p = 0.025; 57 vs. 32 m, p = 0.103). The better prognosis of M-protein immune reconstitution patients may be associated with the acquisition of a deeper response. In high-risk patients, early acquisition of M-protein immune reconstitution may suggest a better prognosis.

Risk of atrial fibrillation in patients with multiple myeloma: what is known and directions for future study

BACKGROUND

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a prevalent hematological tumor, and recent clinical data have highlighted the significance of atrial fibrillation (AF) as a crucial complication affecting the prognosis of MM. This review aims to consolidate findings from published clinical studies, focusing on the epidemiological characteristics of AF in MM patients and the associated risks arising from MM treatments such as autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, proteasome inhibitors, and immunomodulatory agents.

MAIN BODY

While existing data partially demonstrate a strong correlation between MM and AF, further clinical studies are necessary to comprehensively investigate their association. These studies should encompass various aspects, including the risk of AF resulting from MM treatment, the impact of AF-induced embolic events and heart failure on MM prognosis, as well as the influence of AF management methods like catheter ablation or left atrial appendage closure on MM prognosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The supplementation of future data will provide more precise guidance for managing MM patients. By incorporating information regarding AF risk associated with MM treatment and examining the effects of AF management strategies on MM prognosis, healthcare professionals can enhance their decision-making process when caring for individuals with MM.

Long-Term Outcomes of Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma

Despite remarkable progress in survival with the availability of novel agents, an overwhelming majority of patients with multiple myeloma (MM) have disease that relapses. Allogeneic (allo-) hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is a potentially curative option for a subgroup of patients with high-risk MM. This study assessed the long-term outcome of MM patients who underwent allo-HCT while in first remission as consolidation treatment. Thirty-three patients with newly diagnosed MM who underwent allo-HCT as part of consolidation therapy between 1994 and 2016 were reviewed retrospectively. Of these patients, 70% underwent autologous HCT before allo-HCT. All patients were chemosensitive and achieved at least partial response before proceeding to allo-HCT. Most received nonmyeloablative/reduced-intensity conditioning (88%) and a matched sibling donor graft (85%). Acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and chronic GVHD occurred in 30% and 61% of patients, respectively. The median duration of follow-up was 64.1 months (range, 1.4 to 199.2 months) for all patients and 164.4 months (range, 56.0 to 199.2 months) for survivors. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 36 months (95% confidence interval (CI), 8.6 to 73.0 months). The median time from treatment to progression was 73.0 months (95% CI, 30.6 months to not reached). The median overall survival (OS) was 131.9 months (95% CI, 38.4 months to not reached). Of all patients, 39% were alive for more than 10 years, with 46% (n = 6) without progression or relapse. The cumulative incidence of relapse was 18% at 1 year, 39% at 5 years, and 46% at 10 years post-allo-HCT. The cumulative incidence of nonrelapse mortality was 3% at 100 days, 18% at 1 year, 21% at 3 years, and 24% at 5 year post-allo-HCT. On multivariable analysis, high-risk cytogenetics were associated with a shorter PFS (hazard ratio [HR], 2.7; 95% CI, 1.01 to 7.21; P = .047) and OS (HR, 4.91; 95% CI, 1.48 to 16.27; P = .009). Achieving complete remission after allo-HCT also was associated with longer PFS (HR, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.09 to 0.64; P = .004) and OS (HR, .23; 95% CI, .07 to .72; P = .012). Allo-HCT may confer a survival advantage in a selected population of MM patients when performed early in the disease course; additional data on identifying the patients who will benefit the most are needed.

Evaluation of measurable residual disease in multiple myeloma by multiparametric flow cytometry: Current paradigm, guidelines, and future applications

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a heterogeneous group of mature B-cell diseases that are typically characterized by the presence and accumulation of abnormal plasma cells (PCs), which results in the excess production of monoclonal immunoglobulin and/or light chain found in the serum and/or urine. Multiparametric flow cytometry (MFC) is an indispensable tool to supplement the diagnosis, classification and monitoring of the disease due to its high patient applicability, excellent sensitivity and encouraging results from various clinical trials. In this regard, minimal or, more appropriately, measurable residual disease (MRD) negativity by MFC has been recognized as a powerful predictor of favourable long-term outcomes. Before flow cytometry can be effectively implemented in the clinical setting for MM MRD testing, sample preparation, panel configuration, analysis and gating strategies must be optimized to ensure accurate results. This manuscript will discuss the current consensus guidelines for flow cytometric processing of samples and reporting of results for MM MRD testing. We also discuss alternative approaches to detect plasma cells in the presence of daratumumab treatment. Finally, there is a lack of information describing the subclonal distribution of myeloma cells based on their protein expression. The advent of high-dimensional analysis may assist in following the evolution of antigen expression patterns on abnormal plasma cells in patients with relapsed/refractory disease. This in turn can help identify clonal subtypes that are more aggressive for potential informed decision. An analysis using t-SNE to identify the emergence of PCs subclones by MFC, along with the analysis of their immunophenotypic profiles are presented as a future perspective.

Immunomodulators in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: current and future concepts

Introduction: Impressive therapeutic progress is being made in the management of multiple myeloma (MM). his progress is related to the introduction of several new classes of therapeutic agents including proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) and monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs).Areas covered: In this manuscript, the role of the IMiDs thalidomide and lenalidomide in the management of newly diagnosed MM is discussed. The mode of action of IMiDs and their role in the management of newly diagnosed MM patients is highlighted. In addition, clinical data on how MoAbs such as the anti-CD38 antibody daratumumab can further increase the efficacy of IMiD-based first-line anti-myeloma regimens are provided. A database search in PubMed was carried out.Expert Opinion: Immunomodulation has become an indispensable part of successful anti-myeloma regimens both at relapse and at diagnosis. The combination of lenalidomide plus dexamethasone with an anti-CD38 MoAb such as daratumumab and a proteasome inhibitor such as bortezomib is currently one of the most potent first-line treatment regimens for MM. A better understanding on how IMiDs synergize with existing and new anti-myeloma treatments can further improve the outcome for patients. Optimal first-line therapy will continue to benefit the long-term outcome of a growing population of young and elderly MM patients.

Gain of 1q21 is an adverse prognostic factor for multiple myeloma patients treated by autologous stem cell transplantation: A multicenter study in China

Background

Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) has been recommended as a standard approach for young multiple myeloma (MM) patients for decades, even in the era of novel agents. Gain of chromosome 1q21 is a common cytogenetic abnormality in MM, while its clinical prognostic value is still controversial.

Methods

In this multicenter study, we retrospectively analyzed 1q21 gain in 446 newly diagnosed MM patients who received at least one ASCT from three large myeloma centers in China.

Results

Of the all 446 patients, 1q21 gain was an adverse predictor of progression‐free survival (PFS) (34 vs 56 months, P = .005) and overall survival (OS) (69 vs 100 months, P = .002). Gain of 1q21 was more likely to coexist with t(4;14), t(14;16), and del(13q). Nevertheless, isolated 1q21 gain still exhibited unfavorable effects on PFS (35 vs 66 months, P = .045) and OS (61 vs 100 months, P = .026). The coexistence of 1q21 gain and high‐risk cytogenetics (HRCs) [del(17p), t(4;14),and/or t(14;16)] showed poor prognosis on both PFS and OS, while no additional adverse effect could be identified when compared with HRCs alone. Moreover, when coexisting with t(11;14), patients with 1q21 gain showed a comparable survival to those without 1q21 gain. For patients treated with novel induction regimens followed by ASCT, 1q21 gain also conferred an inferior prognosis. Multivariate analysis further confirmed 1q21 gain could independently predict shorter PFS and OS.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 1q21 gain is an adverse prognostic factor for MM patients received ASCT.

γ-Secretase inhibition increases efficacy of BCMA-specific chimeric antigen receptor T cells in multiple myeloma

B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) is a validated target for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy in multiple myeloma (MM). Despite promising objective response rates, most patients relapse, and low levels of BCMA on a subset of tumor cells has been suggested as a probable escape mechanism. BCMA is actively cleaved from the tumor cell surface by the ubiquitous multisubunit γ-secretase (GS) complex, which reduces ligand density on tumor cells for CAR T-cell recognition and releases a soluble BCMA (sBCMA) fragment capable of inhibiting CAR T-cell function. Sufficient sBCMA can accumulate in the bone marrow of MM patients to inhibit CAR T-cell recognition of tumor cells, and potentially limit efficacy of BCMA-directed adoptive T-cell therapy. We investigated whether blocking BCMA cleavage by small-molecule GS inhibitors (GSIs) could augment BCMA-targeted CAR T-cell therapy. We found that exposure of myeloma cell lines and patient tumor samples to GSIs markedly increased surface BCMA levels in a dose-dependent fashion, concurrently decreased sBCMA concentrations, and improved tumor recognition by CAR T cells in vitro. GSI treatment of MM tumor-bearing NOD/SCID/γc-/- mice increased BCMA expression on tumor cells, decreased sBCMA in peripheral blood, and improved antitumor efficacy of BCMA-targeted CAR T-cell therapy. Importantly, short-term GSI administration to MM patients markedly increases the percentage of BCMA+ tumor cells, and the levels of BCMA surface expression in vivo. Based on these data, a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved clinical trial has been initiated, combining GSI with concurrent BCMA CAR T-cell therapy. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT03502577.

Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation in Multiple Myeloma with Renal Failure: Friend or Foe?

Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is a standard treatment for multiple myeloma (MM), but the clinical response and renal curative effect in MM patients with renal failure (RF) remain controversial. The myeloma kidney disease has different types, and most are due to the direct toxic effects of light chain. Although ASCT can effectively clear the light chain, the data of renal function improvement are still limited. We reviewed the published literatures, focusing on the prospective studies, the retrospective analysis studies, and the case reports. RF patients who received ASCT displayed a low survival rate (OS: HR 1.95, 95% CI 1.020 to 3.720; I² = 64.9%, P = 0.014) and a shorter EFS/PFS (EFS/PFS: HR 1.53, 95% CI 1.090 to 2.140; I² = 0%, P = 0.669). However, ASCT was feasible and could have the similar clinical response outcomes compared with the normal renal function (CR: OR 1.013, 95% CI 0.569 to 1.804; I² = 48.5%, P = 0.101; PR: OR 1.013, 95% CI 0.342 to 1.226; I² = 46.3%, P = 0.144). Moreover, MM with RF after ASCT had a good improvement of renal function and melphalan is still an important factor affecting the treatment of ASCT.

Plerixafor for patients who fail cytokine-or chemotherapy-based stem cell mobilization: Results of a prospective study by the Polish Lymphoma Research Group (PLRG)

Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (autoHSCT) requires collection of sufficient number of hematopoietic stem cells. The goal of this study was to evaluate efficacy of plerixafor used in patients with lymphoid malignancies failing conventional stem cell mobilization.

This was a prospective, non-interventional study. All consecutive patients (n = 109) treated with plerixafor in 11 centers were reported. The drug was used either in case of previous mobilization failure (n = 67) or interventionally, in case of insufficient CD34+ cell output during current mobilization (n = 42). Successful mobilization was defined as resulting in collection of ≥ 2 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg for single autoHSCT or ≥ 4 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg for double procedure.

The overall rate of successful mobilization was 55% (55% for single and 56% for double autoHSCT). The median total number of collected CD34+ cells/kg was 2.4 (range, 0-11.5) for patients intended for a single transplantation while 4.0 (0.6-16.9) for double procedure. The number of circulating CD34+ cells increased after the use of plerixafor regardless of baseline values. The median fold increase was 3.3 (0.3-155). Data from this observational study confirm high efficacy of plerixafor used in routine clinical practice as salvage for patients with lymphoid malignancies failing conventional stem cell mobilization.

Translating the anti-myeloma activity of Natural Killer cells into clinical application

Natural Killer cells (NK) are innate effector cells with a critical role in immunosurveillance against different kinds of cancer cells, including Multiple Myeloma (MM). However, the number and/or function of these lymphocytes are strongly reduced during MM progression and in advanced clinical stages. A better understanding of the mechanisms controlling both MM and NK cell biology have greatly contributed to develop novel and combined therapeutic strategies in the treatment of this incurable hematologic malignancy. These include approaches to reverse the immunosuppressive MM microenvironment or potentiate the natural or antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) of NK cells. Moreover, chemotherapeutic drugs or specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) can render cancer cells more susceptible to NK cell-mediated recognition and lysis; direct enhancement of NK cell function can be obtained by means of immunomodulatory drugs, cytokines and blocking mAbs targeting NK cell inhibitory receptors. Finally, adoptive transfer of ex-vivo expanded and genetically manipulated NK cells is also a promising therapeutic tool for MM. Here, we review current knowledge on complex mechanisms affecting NK cell activity during MM progression. We also discuss recent advances on innovative approaches aimed at boosting the functions of these cytotoxic innate lymphocytes. In particular, we focus our attention on recent preclinical and clinical studies addressing the therapeutic potential of different NK cell-based strategies for the management of MM.

Diagnosis of Plasma Cell Dyscrasias and Monitoring of Minimal Residual Disease by Multiparametric Flow Cytometry

Plasma cell dyscrasia (PCD) is a heterogeneous disease that has seen a tremendous change in outcomes due to improved therapies. Over the past few decades, multiparametric flow cytometry has played an important role in the detection and monitoring of PCDs. Flow cytometry is a high-sensitivity assay for early detection of minimal residual disease (MRD) that correlates well with progression-free survival and overall survival. Before flow cytometry can be effectively implemented in the clinical setting, sample preparation, panel configuration, analysis, and gating strategies must be optimized to ensure accurate results. Current consensus methods and reporting guidelines for MRD testing are discussed.

CD38-bispecific antibody pretargeted radioimmunotherapy for multiple myeloma and other B-cell malignancies

Pretargeted radioimmunotherapy (PRIT) has demonstrated remarkable efficacy targeting tumor antigens, but immunogenicity and endogenous biotin blocking may limit clinical translation. We describe a new PRIT approach for the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) and other B-cell malignancies, for which we developed an anti-CD38-bispecific fusion protein that eliminates endogenous biotin interference and immunogenic elements. In murine xenograft models of MM and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), the CD38-bispecific construct demonstrated excellent blood clearance and tumor targeting. Dosimetry calculations showed a tumor-absorbed dose of 43.8 Gy per millicurie injected dose of ⁹⁰Y, with tumor-to-normal organ dose ratios of 7:1 for liver and 15:1 for lung and kidney. In therapy studies, CD38-bispecific PRIT resulted in 100% complete remissions by day 12 in MM and NHL xenograft models, ultimately curing 80% of mice at optimal doses. In direct comparisons, efficacy of the CD38 bispecific proved equal or superior to streptavidin (SA)-biotin-based CD38-SA PRIT. Each approach cured at least 75% of mice at the highest radiation dose tested (1200 µCi), whereas at 600- and 1000-µCi doses, the bispecific outperformed the SA approach, curing 35% more mice overall (P < .004). The high efficacy of bispecific PRIT, combined with its reduced risk of immunogenicity and endogenous biotin interference, make the CD38 bispecific an attractive candidate for clinical translation. Critically, CD38 PRIT may benefit patients with unresponsive, high-risk disease because refractory disease typically retains radiation sensitivity. We posit that PRIT might not only prolong survival, but possibly cure MM and treatment-refractory NHL patients.

A View from the Plateau: Is There a Role for Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation in the Era of Highly Effective Therapies for Multiple Myeloma?

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (allo-HCT) represents the earliest form of immunotherapy used to treat multiple myeloma (MM). Since the first successful myeloablative allografts were performed in the early 1980s, highly effective new agents to treat this disease have been identified at an unprecedented pace. Currently, sixteen FDA-approved therapies are available to treat MM. As a consequence of these advances, the median overall survival for standard risk MM patients has extended to over 7 years. In light of the effective treatment options available, and as a consequence of high rates of toxicity, the role of allo-HCT to treat MM has been called into question. Patients with high-risk disease however continue to face early relapse and death, underscoring the need for approaches that more effectively treat this group. Moreover, allo-HCT remains the only mechanism through which MM patients are reliably cured and for the high-risk population represent an important treatment option that provides them access to an otherwise elusive survival plateau.

Managing multiple myeloma in elderly patients

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma cell neoplasm that affects elderly individuals with two-thirds of patients over 65 years at diagnosis. However, data available are derived from clinical trials conducted in younger patients. Fewer studies investigated treatment options in the elderly. This review summarizes the clinical outcomes and toxicities associated with therapeutic regimens in older patients including doublet, triplet and high dose therapyin newly diagnosed patients and relapsed patients with MM. We highlight the importance of an approach tailored to individuals, incorporates the geriatric frailty assessment, considers comorbiditiess and commits to early recognition and management of toxicities ranging from myelosuppression to polypharmacy. To date, no trial has prospectively investigated a tailored treatment paradigm in older patients based on frailty and/or comorbidities. As the population ages, the proportion of MM patients with advanced age will grow. Studies are indicated to determine optimal treatment approaches in this increasingly heterogeneous geriatric population.

Gambogenic acid synergistically potentiates bortezomib-induced apoptosis in multiple myeloma

Background: Although the introduction of protease inhibitor bortezomib (BTZ) and immunomodulatory agent lenalidomide has led to improved outcomes in patients with multiple myeloma (MM), the disease remains incurable. Gambogenic acid (GNA), a polyprenylated xanthone isolated from the traditional Chinese medicine gamboge, has been reported to have potent antitumor activity and can effectively inhibit the survival and proliferation of cancer. In this study, we hypothesized that GNA could synergistically potentiate BTZ-induced apoptosis of MM cells and that combining BTZ and GNA may provide a more effective approach to treat MM. Hence, we investigate the in vitro and in vivo effects of BTZ and GNA, alone or in combination, against myeloma MM.1S cells.

Methods: Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, combination index (CI) isobologram, flow cytometry, western blot, xenograft tumor models, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) and immunochemistry were used in this study.

Results: The results showed that BTZ and GNA combination treatment resulted in a strong synergistic action against the MM.1S cell line. Increased G2/M phase cells were triggered by BTZ, GNA and the combined treatment. The combined treatment could induce more markedly apoptosis of MM.1S cells via the activation of PARP cleavage, P53, Caspase-3 cleavage and Bax and inhibition of Bcl-2 expression. An increased antitumor effects of combination therapy of BTZ and GNA on MM.1S xenograft models were observed, and combining BTZ and GNA was found to be superior to a single agent.

Conclusions: Our data support that a synergistic antitumor activity exists between BTZ and GNA, and provide a rationale for successful utilization of dual BTZ and GNA in MM chemotherapy in the future.

VTD-melphalan is well tolerated and results in very high rates of stringent CR and MRD-negative status in multiple myeloma

The addition of cytotoxic drugs to high-dose melphalan as a preparative regimen for autologous stem cell transplantation in multiple myeloma has not resulted in superior activity. Although novel agents have significantly improved outcome in multiple myeloma, their role in preparative regimens remains largely unknown. We have evaluated the toxicity and efficacy of combining bortezomib, thalidomide, and dexamethasone with high-dose melphalan. An institutional review board-approved retrospective analysis was performed on 100 consecutive patients receiving 153 transplants; 53 had tandem transplants; 64 patients received early transplants; and 36 had salvage transplantation. Endpoints were treatment-related toxicity and mortality, and quality of response post-transplantation with assessment of stringent complete remission (sCR) and minimal residual disease (MRD) status. Median age was 61 years, and median follow-up was 16.2 months. At 6 months, sCR was attained in 56% of patients and CR in 20%. An MRD status, assessed by sensitive (10⁻⁴) multiparameter flow cytometry, was achieved in 85%. The 100-day mortality rate was 2.6% (4/153); 1.8% for early transplants and 4.5% for salvage transplants. Grade 3–5 non-hematologic toxicities were mainly related to metabolism/nutrition; gastrointestinal and infectious problems. Median time to absolute neutrophil count of >500/µL was 12 days for both early and salvage transplantations. No significant differences in quality of response were observed between early and salvage transplantation or between single and tandem autologous stem cell transplantation. Since both sCR and MRD are excellent early surrogate markers for progression-free and overall survival, this regimen will likely be superior to melphalan alone, but it needs to be formally assessed in a randomized study.

Bortezomib and thalidomide maintenance after stem cell transplantation for multiple myeloma: a PETHEMA/GEM trial

The phase III trial GEM05MENOS65 randomized 390 patients 65 years old or younger with newly diagnosed symptomatic multiple myeloma (MM) to receive induction with thalidomide/dexamethasone, bortezomib/thalidomide/dexamethasone and Vincristine, BCNU, melphalan, cyclophosphamide, prednisone/vincristine, BCNU, doxorubicin, dexamethasone bortezomib (VBMCP/VBAD/B) followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) with MEL-200. After ASCT, a second randomization was performed to compare thalidomide/bortezomib (TV), thalidomide (T) and alfa-2b interferon (alfa2-IFN). Maintenance treatment consisted of TV (thalidomide 100 mg daily plus one cycle of intravenous bortezomib at 1.3 mg/m² on days 1, 4, 8 and 11 every 3 months) versus T (100 mg daily) versus alfa2-IFN (3 MU three times per week) for up to 3 years. A total of 271 patients were randomized (TV: 91; T: 88; alfa2-IFN: 92). The complete response (CR) rate with maintenance was improved by 21% with TV, 11% with T and 17% with alfa2-IFN (P, not significant). After a median follow-up of 58.6 months, the progression-free survival (PFS) was significantly longer with TV compared with T and alfa2-IFN (50.6 vs 40.3 vs 32.5 months, P=0.03). Overall survival was not significantly different among the three arms. Grade 2-3 peripheral neuropathy was observed in 48.8%, 34.4% and 1% of patients treated with TV, T and alfa2-IFN, respectively. In conclusion, bortezomib and thalidomide maintenance resulted in a significantly longer PFS when compared with thalidomide or alfa2-IFN. (no. EUDRA 2005-001110-41).

Absence of spontaneous response improvement beyond day +100 after autologous stem cell transplantation in multiple myeloma

The response evaluation after autologous stem-cell transplantation (ASCT) is usually performed at day +100 in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). A recent report suggests that improvement in the response can be observed beyond day +100. The aim of the present study has been to evaluate the rate of improved response and outcome beyond day +100 after ASCT, with and without maintenance therapy. One hundred and forty-four patients who underwent single ASCT with chemosensitive disease and achieved less than CR at day 100 post ASCT were evaluated. Seventy-four patients (51.4%) did not receive any maintenance with only one of them showing an upgrade in the response. The remaining 70 patients (48.6%) received maintenance therapy; eleven of them (15.7%) improved their response beyond day +100. The outcome of these patients was better than those who did not upgrade their response in both progression-free survival and overall survival (P=0.019 and P=0.031, respectively). In conclusion, the improvement in response beyond day +100 after ASCT in patients not receiving any therapy is exceedingly rare. A minority of patients receiving maintenance therapy after ASCT upgrades their response and this finding is associated with better outcome.

Targeting Immune Checkpoints in Hematologic Malignancies

The use of antibodies that target immune checkpoint molecules on the surface of T-lymphocytes and/or tumor cells has revolutionized our approach to cancer therapy. Cytotoxic-T-lymphocyte antigen (CTLA-4) and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) are the two most commonly targeted immune checkpoint molecules. Although the role of antibodies that target CTLA-4 and PD-1 has been established in solid tumor malignancies and Food and Drug Administration approved for melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer, there remains a desperate need to incorporate immune checkpoint inhibition in hematologic malignancies. Unlike solid tumors, a number of considerations must be addressed to appropriately employ immune checkpoint inhibition in hematologic malignancies. For example, hematologic malignancies frequently obliterate the bone marrow and lymph nodes, which are critical immune organs that must be restored for appropriate response to immune checkpoint inhibition. On the other hand, hematologic malignancies are the quintessential immune responsive tumor type, as proven by the success of allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) in hematologic malignancies. Also, sharing an immune cell lineage, malignant hematologic cells often express immune checkpoint molecules that are absent in solid tumor cells, thereby offering direct targets for immune checkpoint inhibition. A number of clinical trials have demonstrated the potential for immune checkpoint inhibition in hematologic malignancies before and after allo-SCT. The ongoing clinical studies and complimentary immune correlatives are providing a growing body of knowledge regarding the role of immune checkpoint inhibition in hematologic malignancies, which will likely become part of the standard of care for hematologic malignancies.

Upfront autologous stem cell transplantation for newly diagnosed elderly multiple myeloma patients: a prospective multicenter study

The feasibility and efficacy of high-dose melphalan followed by autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in newly diagnosed elderly patients with multiple myeloma was analyzed prospectively. Fifty-six multiple myeloma patients, aged 65 years or over, from 6 French centers were studied. The induction therapy was bortezomib-based in combination with dexamethasone and either thalidomide, cyclophosphamide or lenalidomide, for 4-6 cycles. Peripheral blood stem cells were collected after high-dose cyclophosphamide plus G-CSF or G-CSF alone, with plerixafor if needed. The conditioning regimen consisted of melphalan at 140 mg/m² in 18 patients (36%) and 200 mg/m² in 32 (64%). Three months post autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, a 2-month consolidation phase with either lenalidomide plus dexamethasone or bortezomib-based combination therapy was allowed, but maintenance treatment was not given. All but 6 patients underwent autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and 3 had tandem transplantations. The treatment-related mortality was 0% at 100 days post transplantation. Sixty-eight percent received consolidation therapy following transplantation. The best response achieved was 40% complete response, 36% very good partial response, and 18% partial response. After a median follow up of 21 months (range 6-31), the estimated progression-free and overall survival rates at two years were 76% [95%CI: (61.6-94.1)] and 88% [95%CI: (76.7-100)], respectively. The higher dose of melphalan (200 mg/m²) afforded superior progression-free and overall survival rates. This prospective study provides evidence for the safety and efficacy of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation as a first-line treatment approach in elderly multiple myeloma patients. (clinicaltrials.gov identifier: 01671826).

Treatment response evaluation with 18F-FDG PET/CT and 18F-NaF PET/CT in multiple myeloma patients undergoing high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation

AIM

The aim of this study was to assess the combined use of the radiotracers ¹⁸F-FDG and ¹⁸F-NaF in treatment response evaluation of a group of multiple myeloma (MM) patients undergoing high-dose chemotherapy (HDT) followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) by means of static (whole-body) and dynamic PET/CT (dPET/CT).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Thirty-four patients with primary, previously untreated MM scheduled for treatment with HDT followed by ASCT were enrolled in the study. All patients underwent PET/CT scanning with ¹⁸F-FDG and ¹⁸F-NaF before and after therapy. Treatment response by means of PET/CT was assessed according to the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) 1999 criteria. The evaluation of dPET/CT studies was based on qualitative evaluation, semi-quantitative (SUV) calculation, and quantitative analysis based on two-tissue compartment modelling and a non-compartmental approach leading to the extraction of fractal dimension (FD).

RESULTS

An analysis was possible in 29 patients: three with clinical complete response (CR) and 26 with non-CR (13 patients near complete response-nCR, four patients very good partial response-VGPR, nine patients partial response-PR). After treatment, ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT was negative in 14/29 patients and positive in 15/29 patients, showing a sensitivity of 57.5 % and a specificity of 100 %. According to the EORTC 1999 criteria, ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT-based treatment response revealed CR in 14 patients (¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT CR), PR in 11 patients (¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT PR) and progressive disease in four patients (¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT PD). In terms of ¹⁸F-NaF PET/CT, 4/29 patients (13.8 %) had a negative baseline scan, thus failed to depict MM. Regarding the patients for which a direct lesion-to-lesion comparison was feasible, ¹⁸F-NaF PET/CT depicted 56 of the 129 ¹⁸F-FDG positive lesions (43 %). Follow-up ¹⁸F-NaF PET/CT showed persistence of 81.5 % of the baseline ¹⁸F-NaF positive MM lesions after treatment, despite the fact that 64.7 % of them had turned to ¹⁸F-FDG negative. Treatment response according to ¹⁸F-NaF PET/CT revealed CR in one patient (¹⁸F-NaF PET/CT CR), PR in five patients (¹⁸F-NaF PET/CT PR), SD in 12 patients (¹⁸F-NaF PET/CT SD), and PD in seven patients (¹⁸F-NaF PET/CT PD). Dynamic ¹⁸F-FDG and ¹⁸F-NaF PET/CT studies showed that SUV_average, SUV_max, as well as the kinetic parameters K₁, influx and FD from reference bone marrow and skeleton responded to therapy with a significant decrease (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

F-FDG PET/CT demonstrated a sensitivity of 57.7 % and a specificity of 100 % in treatment response evaluation of MM. Despite its limited sensitivity, the performance of ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT was satisfactory, given that 6/9 false negative patients in follow-up scans (66.7 %) were clinically characterized as nCR, a disease stage with very low tumor mass. On the other hand, ¹⁸F-NaF PET/CT does not seem to add significantly to ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT in treatment response evaluation of MM patients undergoing HDT and ASCT, at least shortly after therapy.

A transplant “immunome” screening platform defines a targetable epitope fingerprint of multiple myeloma

The myeloma transplant B-cell immunome is predictive for response to treatment. It may be exploited by immunosequencing and library technology as a source for unique target structures and antibodies for immunotherapy.

Bortezomib-based induction improves progression-free survival of myeloma patients harboring 17p deletion and/or t(4;14) and overcomes their adverse prognosis

Providing a risk-adapted treatment strategy has been a key goal in the ongoing research efforts aimed at providing treatment tailored to the individual genetic make-up. Eighty myeloma patients have been tested for presence of 17p deletion and/or t(4;14) by fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). Based on FISH results, they have been categorized into patients lacking them (standard risk) and those harboring them (high risk). Patients in each category were randomly assigned 1:1 to induction treatment by either vincristine, adriamycin and dexamethasone (VAD), or bortezomib and dexamethasone (VD) followed by autologous stem cell transplantation and thalidomide maintenance and were followed up for 32 months. 32.5 % of patients were high risk. Following induction, there were significantly higher rates of at least very good partial response achievement in VD arms in standard- and high-risk patients. Regarding complete response achievement, there were insignificant differences between VAD and VD arms in standard and high-risk patients. After a median follow-up of 17.5 months, there was insignificant difference in overall survival (OS) between VAD and VD arms in standard and high-risk patients. There was superior progression-free survival (PFS) in VD arms in standard- and high-risk patients. Among patients who received VD, those belonging to standard and high-risk groups had similar PFS. In conclusion, bortezomib-based induction is superior to non-bortezomib-based one in patients harboring 17p deletion and/or t(4;14) in terms of improving PFS but not OS. Also, it reduces progression risk in patients harboring these high risk cytogenetics.

Targeting CD138-/CD20+ Clonogenic Myeloma Precursor Cells Decreases These Cells and Induces Transferable Antimyeloma Immunity

This phase Ib clinical trial evaluated whether pretargeting of CD20(+) clonogenic myeloma precursor cells (CMPCs) with anti-CD3 × anti-CD20 bispecific antibody-armed T cells (BATs) before autologous stem cell transplantation (SCT) in patients with standard-risk and high-risk multiple myeloma would induce antimyeloma immunity that could be detected and boosted after SCT. All 12 patients enrolled in this study received 2 BATs infusions before SCT, and 4 patients received a booster infusion of BATs after SCT. Pretargeting CD138(-)/CD20(+) CMPCs with BATs before SCT was safe and reduced levels of CMPCs by up to 58% in the postinfusion bone marrow in patients who remained in remission. Four of 5 patients who remained in remission had a >5-fold increase in IFN-γ enzyme-linked immunospot responses. SOX2 antibody increased after BATs infusions and persisted after SCT. The median anti-SOX2 level at 3 months after SCT was 28.1 ng/mL (range, 4.6 to 256 ng/mL) in patients who relapsed and 46 ng/mL (range, 28.3 to 73.3 ng/mL) in patients who remained in remission. The immune correlates suggest that infusions of targeted T cells given before SCT were able to reduce CMPC levels and induced cellular and humoral antimyeloma immunity that could be transferred and boosted after SCT.

A physiologically based kinetic model for elucidating the in vivo distribution of administered mesenchymal stem cells

Although mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) present a promising tool in cell therapy for the treatment of various diseases, the in vivo distribution of administered MSCs has still been poorly understood, which hampers the precise prediction and evaluation of their therapeutic efficacy. Here, we developed the first model to characterize the physiological kinetics of administered MSCs based on direct visualization of cell spatiotemporal disposition by intravital microscopy and assessment of cell quantity using flow cytometry. This physiologically based kinetic model was validated with multiple external datasets, indicating potential inter-route and inter-species predictive capability. Our results suggest that the targeting efficiency of MSCs is determined by the lung retention and interaction between MSCs and target organs, including cell arrest, depletion and release. By adapting specific parameters, this model can be easily applied to abnormal conditions or other types of circulating cells for designing treatment protocols and guiding future experiments.

Novel agent induction therapy alone or followed by autologous stem cell transplantation in younger patients with multiple myeloma: A single-center retrospective study of 114 cases

To define the role of autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM) in the era of novel agents, we analyzed follow-up data of patients treated by these agents alone or followed by ASCT. From January, 2008 to December, 2012, 136 patients with de novo MM, aged <65 years, completed bortezomib- or thalidomide-based induction therapy and 114 patients achieved at least a partial response (PR). A total of 42 patients underwent ASCT. After a median follow-up of 39 months (range, 5-74 months), the median progression-free survival (PFS) was 23 months in the non-ASCT group vs. 42 months in the ASCT group (P=0.001), and the 5-year overall survival (OS) rate was 58.9 vs. 81.2%, respectively (P=0.03). The multivariate analysis revealed that complete response (CR) and maintenance therapy (MT) were independent factors of improved OS in both groups. Moreover, a subgroup analysis was performed according to the response status to evaluate the role of ASCT and MT. In the CR subgroup, neither ASCT nor MT exerted a significant effect on PFS or OS. In the very good PR subgroup, ASCT after MT (ASCT/MT) significantly improved PFS, but not OS. In patients exhibiting PR, ASCT/MT significantly prolonged PFS and OS. Therefore, ASCT in the era of novel agents maintains an important role in younger MM patients, particularly those achieving a PR after induction therapy. Furthermore, MT is a key factor associated with long-term survival in all MM patients.

DNA methylation of tumor suppressor protein-coding and non-coding genes in multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma is an incurable hematological malignancy arising from immortalized plasma cells in the bone marrow. DNA methylation refers to the catalytic addition of a methyl group to the cytosine ring of a CpG dinucleotide. Methylation of a promoter-associated CpG island, a cluster of CpG dinucleotides, may lead to silencing of the associated gene. In carcinogenesis, methylation of protein-coding or non-coding tumor suppressor genes/miRNAs is associated with transcriptional silencing, loss of tumor suppressor function and prognostic significance. This review first introduces pathogenesis of myeloma and DNA methylation in cancer. Then, it summarizes methylation of protein-coding tumor suppressor genes, especially, the latest genome-wide methylation studies in myeloma, followed by the latest findings of methylation of non-coding tumor suppressor miRNAs in myeloma.

Treatment for patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma in 2015

Multiple myeloma is the second most frequent haematological disease. The introduction of high-dose melphalan followed by autologous haematopoietic cell transplant (HDT/ASCT) for young patients and the availability of novel agents for young and elderly patients with multiple myeloma have dramatically changed the perspective of treatment. However, further research is necessary if we want to definitively cure the disease. Treatment goals for transplant-eligible and non-transplant-eligible patients should be to prolong survival by achieving the best possible response, while ensuring quality of life. The treatment should be individualized on the basis of host and disease features and better monitoring of the response upon use of high-sensitivity techniques for evaluating residual disease. For young patients, HDT/ASCT is a standard of care for treatment and its efficacy has been enhanced and challenged by the new drugs. For elderly patients, treatment options were limited to alkylators, but new upfront treatment combinations based on novel agents (proteasome inhibitors and immunomodulatory drugs) combined or not with alkylators have significantly improved outcomes.Extended treatment for young and elderly patients improves the quality and duration of clinical responses; however,the optimal scheme, appropriate doses and duration of long-term therapy have not yet been fully determined.This review summarises the progress in the treatment of patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma, addressing critical questions such as the optimal induction, early versus late ASCT, consolidation and/or maintenance for young patients, and how we can choose the best option for non-transplant-eligible patients.

Allogeneic hematopoietic SCT in multiple myeloma: long-term results from a single institution

The role of allogeneic hematopoietic SCT (allo-HCT) in multiple myeloma (MM) remains controversial. A total of 58 patients received an allo-HCT (25 of them with myeloablative conditioning-allo-MAC-and 33 with reduced-intensity conditioning-allo-RIC) at our institution over a 28-year period. The CR rate for allo-MAC was 36%. The incidence of grade III-IV acute GVHD (aGVHD) and chronic GVHD (cGVHD) was 28% and 39%, respectively The TRM at any time was 60% and the main causes of death were aGVHD or infectious complications not directly related to GVHD. The estimated PFS and OS at 15 years were 8% and 15%, respectively. The CR rate with allo-RIC was 45%. The incidence of grade III-IV aGVHD and cGVHD were 24% and 41%, respectively. The TRM at any time was 33% and was mainly related to aGVHD. The estimated PFS and OS at 5 years were 22% and 38%, respectively. Despite its high TRM, a proportion of patients with high-risk myeloma (early relapse and newly diagnosed ultrahigh risk) may obtain long-term disease control with allo-HCT. New approaches aimed at decreasing the incidence of aGVHD, and consequently to decrease the TRM, are needed.

New approaches to management of multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma is still an incurable disease with pattern of regression and remission followed by multiple relapses raising from the residual myeloma cells surviving even in the patients who achieve complete clinical response to treatment. New antimyeloma drugs such as thalidomide, lenalidomide, and bortezomib have dramatically changed treatment paradigm leading to both tumor reduction and tumor suppression. Much progress has been made, but still many unsolved questions remain. In the mode of sequencing treatment for patients with multiple myeloma, we are still using old drugs such as the alkylating agent melphalan, which continues to play a central role in the transplantation setting. Newer drugs are now emerging and are being tested: monoclonal antibodies, histone deacetylase (romidespsin), MLN9708 (ixazomib) a new oral proteasome inhibitor, carfilzomib, signal transduction modulator perifosine. Many advances have been made, but there is still a long way to go.

Controversies in multiple myeloma: to transplant or not?

The treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) has dramatically changed in the last decade due to the introduction of the immunomodulatory drugs (IMIDs) and proteasome inhibitors, otherwise known as the novel agents. Prior to the advent of the novel agents, the gold standard of treatment had been high-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplantation (HDT/ASCT) for eligible candidates. Given the remarkable activity of the novel agents, and the significant morbidity of HDT/ASCT, the role of stem cell transplantation has now come into question. In this review, we explore the benefits and drawbacks to HDT/ASCT in the era of the novel therapies.

Complete response after autologous stem cell transplant in multiple myeloma

We evaluated long-term outcome of patients achieving complete response (CR) after autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) for multiple myeloma. Between April 1990 and June 2012 191 patients underwent ASCT. The median age was 53 years (range, 26-68 years), 135 were men. Pretransplant, patients received induction therapy with VAD (vincristine, doxorubicin, dexamethasone; n = 77), novel agents (n = 92), or alkylating agent-based, n = 22); 43% received more than one line of induction regimen. Response to transplant was defined as per EBMT criteria. The median follow-up for the entire group was 85 months (range, 6-232.5 months). Following transplant 109 (57.1%) patients achieved CR. Median progression-free survival (PFS) for patients with CR was higher compared to those with VGPR and PR, (107 vs. 18 vs. 18 months, P < 0.001). Number of lines of therapy pretransplant (one or two vs. more than two lines of therapy (P < 0.001), and absolute lymphocyte count of ≤ 3000/cmm were predictors of superior PFS. Median overall survival (OS) for patients with CR was higher, (204 months), compared to those with VGPR (71.5 months, P < 0.001) and PR (51.5 months, P < 0.001), respectively. On Cox regression analysis, patients who received one line of induction therapy pretransplant (hazard ratio, HR 2.154, P < 0.001) and those with absolute lymphocyte count of ≤ 3000/mm(3) (HR 0.132, P < 0.001) had superior PFS. For overall survival, induction treatment up to one line (HR 2.403, P < 0.004) and Hb > 7.1 G/dL at diagnosis (HR 4.756, P < 0.01) were associated with superior outcome. On landmark analysis at 12 months, PFS and OS continued to remain superior for patients attaining CR. Achievement of CR post transplant is associated with longer OS and PFS. Among complete responders, those who receive one line of induction therapy pretransplant have superior outcome.

Bortezomib, dexamethasone, and high-dose melphalan as conditioning for stem cell transplantation in young Japanese multiple myeloma patients: a pilot study

Autologous stem cell transplantation is recommended for younger patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma because of a high complete response rate and better survival. Bortezomib shows a synergistic effect with melphalan and has no prolonged hematologic toxicity, and the complete response rate after autologous stem cell transplantation is improved by combining bortezomib with melphalan for conditioning. Twelve patients were enrolled in a phase 2 study between February and November 2010, receiving bortezomib (1 mg/m(2) × 4), dexamethasone (20 mg/body × 8), and melphalan (200 mg/m(2)) for conditioning. No toxic deaths occurred. Neutrophils (absolute neutrophil count ≥0.5 × 10(9)/L) and platelets (≥20 × 10(9)/L without transfusion) recovered after a median of 5 days (range: 4-6 days) and 7 days (range: 4-8 days), respectively. No patient was admitted for exacerbation of peripheral neuropathy. Four patients obtained a stringent complete response, three patients obtained a complete response, and three patients showed a very good partial response. These results suggest that this conditioning regimen is safe and promising for young Japanese multiple myeloma patients. A prospective multicenter trial of this regimen combined with suitable induction and consolidation therapy should be performed.

Cranial plasmacytoma: a case series and review of the literature

Plasmacytomas are malignant proliferations of plasma cells which can occur with different plasma cell dyscrasias. Solitary plasmacytomas of bone or extraosseous plasmacytomas, depending on the tissue of origin, develop in isolation without systemic manifestations of multiple myeloma. Three cases of cranial plasmacytomas are described, two in patients with multiple myeloma and one extraosseous plasmacytoma. Management options are discussed.

Initial treatment of transplant-eligible patients in multiple myeloma

Induction therapy followed by intensification with ASCT is the standard of care in younger patients with multiple myeloma. Three-drug induction regimens combining novel agents (VTD, VRD, VCD, PAD) have shown a high CR rate both, pretransplant and posttransplant. Patients with high-risk cytogenetics continues to have an inferior outcome even when treated with novel agents. The role of tandem autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) is not well established, although some studies show a better outcome with tandem ASCT as compared to single auto. The high response rate obtained with novel agents also raises the question if autologous transplant has a role in front-line therapy or if it should be used as savage therapy after relapse.

Patient, Physician and Contextual Factors Are Influential in the Treatment Decision Making of Older Adults Newly Diagnosed with Symptomatic Myeloma

AIMS

To examine patient perspectives on their personal and contextual factors relevant to TDM. The second aim was to describe physician perspectives on the TDM in older adults (≥60 y.o.) diagnosed with symptomatic MM.

STUDY DESIGN

Descriptive, cross-sectional.

METHODOLOGY

A semi-structured interview schedule was administered. Directed content analysis procedures were used to develop major themes from the patient and physician participant interviews.

RESULTS

Themes related to treatment decision making among patient participants include various decisional role preferences; several sources of information related to myeloma; contextual and patient-specific factors influence treatment decisions; negative perceptions related to the treatment decision-making process exist; strong desire to be in remission and to live a longer life; For physician participants, top themes related to decision making were: QOL or survival considerations or simultaneously considerations of treatment effectiveness, QOL and survival; screening patients for eligibility for autologous HSCT; time is a barrier to effective TDM; Various methods were used to assess patient decisional role preferences.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment decision making in older adults newly diagnosed with symptomatic myeloma is influenced by personal, social and contextual factors. Patients must be given the opportunity to choose the best possible treatment within the limits of the patient's personal, social and medical contexts.

Choosing treatment options for patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a clonal plasma cell disorder that is still incurable using conventional treatments. Over the last decade, advances in front-line therapy have led to an increase in survival, but there are still some doubts in the case of relapsed/refractory disease. We searched the PubMed database for articles on treatment options for patients with relapsed/refractory MM published between 1996 and 2013. These treatments included hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), rechallenges using previous chemotherapy regimens, and trials of new regimens. The introduction of new agents such as the immunomodulatory drugs (IMIDs) thalidomide and lenalidomide, and the first-in-its-class proteasome inhibitor bortezomib, has greatly improved clinical outcomes in patients with relapsed/refractory MM, but not all patients respond and those that do may eventually relapse or become refractory to treatment. The challenge is therefore to select the optimal treatment for each patient by balancing efficacy and toxicity. To do this, it is necessary to consider disease-related factors, such as the quality and duration of responses to previous therapies, and the aggressiveness of the relapse, and patient-related factors such as age, comorbidities, performance status, pre-existing toxicities and cytogenetic patterns. The message from the trials reviewed in this article is that the new agents may be used to re-treat relapsed/refractory disease, and that the sequencing of their administration should be modulated on the basis of the various disease and patient-related factors. Moreover, our understanding of the pharmacology and molecular action of the new drugs will contribute to the possibility of developing tailored treatment.

Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for multiple myeloma: frequently asked questions

When caring for patients with multiple myeloma, questions often arise about the role and timing of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. As a complement to the other articles in this supplement, as well as to ensure that readers are provided with the insight needed to feel comfortable speaking to patients and other practitioners about this topic, the authors address eight frequently asked questions about common decision points in the process of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation as a treatment for patients with multiple myeloma.

Long-term results in multiple myeloma after high-dose melphalan and autologous transplantation according to response categories in the era of old drugs

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between the long-term prognosis of multiple myeloma (MM) and the quality of response to therapy in a cohort of 173 patients treated with high-dose melphalan (HDM) and autologous transplantation in the era of old drugs.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 173 patients with de novo MM who received a transplant between 1994 and 2010 were analyzed. VAD (vincristine, doxorubicin [Adriamycin], dexamethasone) was used as front-line regimen before auto-HPCT. The conditioning was HDM 200 mg/m(2). Patients were evaluated for clinical response using the criteria from the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation, modified to include near complete remission (nCR) and very good partial remission (VGPR).

RESULTS

The response distribution after transplantation in our series was complete remission (CR) in 33 cases (19%), nearly complete remission (nCR) in 38 cases (22%), VGPR in 30 cases (17%), partial remission (PR) in 65 cases (38%), and stable disease (SD) in 7 cases (4%). Patients were followed for 48 ± 36 months. Median overall survival (OS) was not reached for the CR group. Progression-free survival (PFS) was 122 months for CR, 55 months for nCR, 56 months for VGPR, 32 months for PR, and 22 months for SD. Significant differences in PFS and OS were found between the CR and nCR groups (P = .003 and P = .001, respectively), between the CR and VGPR groups (P = .002 and P = .001, respectively), and between the CR and PR groups (P = .000 and P = .001, respectively). Responses were clustered in 3 main categories, ie, CR, nCR + VGPR + PR, and SD. The respective 10-year PFS and OS values were 58% and 70% for CR, 15% and 18% for nCR + VGPR + PR, and 0% and 0% for SD.

CONCLUSION

The achievement of depth and prolonged response represents the most important prognostic factor. The relapse rate is low for patients in CR after 10 years of follow-up, possibly signifying a cure.

Differential humoral responses against heat-shock proteins after autologous stem cell transplantation in multiple myeloma

Heat-shock proteins (HSP) are important molecules in the pathogenesis of multiple myeloma (MM). Their blockages by drugs or cellular immune response have been investigated, and a possible association with the presence of oligoclonal bands (OB) has been postulated in patients with MM after allogenic stem cell transplantation. The aim of the present study was to ascertain the serum antibody levels against three HSP (60, 70 and 90) by ELISA in patients with MM in complete remission after autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT), with or without OB, and compare them with those patients with stable gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and healthy controls. Our results in samples after ASCT showed no differential levels of anti-HSP according to the presence or absence of the oligoclonal response. However, higher levels of anti-HSP90 were found in patients with stable MGUS in comparison with MM patients (p = 0.004). In the same line, a longer progression-free survival was observed in those patients who presented higher anti-HSP90 levels after ASCT (p = 0.042). These results suggest, for first time, the potential of anti-HSP90 humoral immune response for long-term control of malignant plasma cell disorders.