International Myeloma Working Group consensus statement for the management, treatment, and supportive care of patients with myeloma not eligible for standard autologous stem-cell transplantation

Ixazomib plus daratumumab and dexamethasone: Final analysis of a phase 2 study among patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma

Novel therapies have improved outcomes for multiple myeloma (MM) patients, but most ultimately relapse, making treatment decisions for relapsed/refractory MM (RRMM) patients increasingly challenging. We report the final analysis of a single-arm, phase 2 study evaluating the oral proteasome inhibitor (PI) ixazomib combined with daratumumab and dexamethasone (IDd; NCT03439293). Sixty-one RRMM patients (ixazomib/daratumumab-naïve; 1-3 prior therapies) were enrolled to receive IDd (28-day cycles) until disease progression/unacceptable toxicity. Median age was 69 years; 14.8% of patients had International Staging System stage III disease; 14.8% had received three prior therapies. Patients received a median of 16 cycles of IDd. In 59 response-evaluable patients, the overall response rate was 64.4%; the confirmed ≥very good partial response (VGPR) rate (primary endpoint) was 30.5%. Rates of ≥VGPR in patient subgroups were: high-risk cytogenetics (n = 15, 26.7%), expanded high-risk cytogenetics (n = 24, 29.2%), aged ≥75 years (n = 12, 16.7%), lenalidomide-refractory (n = 21, 28.6%), and prior PI/IMiD therapy (n = 58, 31.0%). With a median follow-up of 31.6 months, median progression-free survival was 16.8 months (95% confidence interval: 10.1-23.7). Grade ≥3 treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) occurred in 54.1% of patients; 44.3% had serious TEAEs; TEAEs led to dose modifications/reductions/discontinuations in 62.3%/36.1%/16.4%. There were five on-study deaths. Any-grade and grade ≥3 peripheral neuropathy occurred in 18.0% and 1.6% of patients. Quality of life was generally maintained throughout treatment. IDd showed a positive risk-benefit profile in RRMM patients and was active in clinically relevant subgroups with no new safety signals.

Isatuximab with pomalidomide-dexamethasone in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma: post-marketing surveillance in Japan

This post-marketing surveillance assessed the safety and effectiveness of isatuximab plus pomalidomide and dexamethasone (Isa-Pd) for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) during real-world use in Japan. Data from 211 individuals with RRMM treated with Isa-Pd in Japan between October 2020 and October 2021 were collected, with follow-up for up to 12 months after initiation of Isa-Pd or until treatment discontinuation. The incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs), ADRs of special interest (infusion reactions, bone marrow suppression, infections, cardiac disorders, other ADRs of Grade ≥ 3), and serious ADRs was assessed. Best overall response and overall response rate (ORR) were determined. In the safety analysis set (n = 120), ADR incidence was 57.5%. Most ADRs were hematologic, and serious ADRs occurred in 28.3%. Bone marrow suppression occurred in 46.7% of participants (19.2% serious), infusion reactions in 18.3% (6.7% serious), infections in 11.7% (8.3% serious), and a serious cardiac disorder in one participant; other Grade ≥ 3 ADRs were reported in 3.3% (1.7% serious). In the effectiveness analysis set (n = 108), the most common best overall response was very good partial response (24.1%), and ORR was 51.9%. These findings support the safety and effectiveness of Isa-Pd for RRMM in real-life settings in Japan.

Anti-BCMA/GPRC5D bispecific CAR T cells in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma: a single-arm, single-centre, phase 1 trial

BACKGROUND

Some challenges still exist with single-target B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies due to variable or negative BCMA expression, although they have yielded remarkable efficacy in relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. We developed anti-BCMA/GPRC5D bispecific CARs to mitigate the limitations and potentiate the functions of CAR T cells.

METHODS

This single-arm, phase 1 trial was conducted at the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University (Xuzhou, China). The trial enrolled patients aged 18-75 years with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma and an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0-3. Anti-BCMA/GPRC5D bispecific CAR T cells were administered at 0·5 × 106, 1·0 × 106, 2·0 × 106, and 4·0 × 106 CAR T cells per kg in the dose-escalation phase, with additional patients included at the dose selected for the dose-expansion phase. The primary endpoint was safety, which included dose-limiting toxicity and maximum tolerated dose. Activity was also evaluated as a secondary endpoint. The maximum tolerated dose was chosen for the dose-expansion phase. Safety and activity analyses were done in all patients who received anti-BCMA/GPRC5D bispecific CAR T cells as defined in the protocol. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05509530) and is complete.

FINDINGS

Between Sept 1, 2022, and Nov 3, 2023, 24 patients were enrolled and underwent apheresis. Three patients were excluded after apheresis (two patients discontinued due to rapid disease progression and one patient was withdrawn because of failed manufacture of CAR T cells), so 21 patients were infused with anti-BCMA/GPRC5D bispecific CAR T cells. Median follow-up was 5·8 months (IQR 5·2-6·7). Median age was 62 years (IQR 56-67). Eight (38%) patients were male, and 13 (62%) female. All patients were Chinese. At the 4·0 × 106 CAR T cells per kg dose, two patients had dose-limiting toxicities, of whom one died of subarachnoid haemorrhage (which was not considered to be related to the study treatment). The maximum tolerated dose was identified as 2·0 × 106 CAR T cells per kg. The most common grade 3 or worse adverse events were haematological toxicities in 19 (90%) patients (except lymphopenia). 15 (71%) patients had cytokine release syndrome, of which all cases were grade 1 or 2. One case of grade 1 immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) was observed in a patient who received 4·0 × 106 CAR T cells per kg. No ICANS or grade 3 or worse organ toxicities were observed in patients who received 0·5-2·0 × 106 CAR T cells per kg. The overall response rate was 86% (18 of 21 patients), with 13 (62%) patients having a complete response or better, and 17 (81%) patients having measurable residual disease negativity. Of the 12 patients who received 2·0 × 106 CAR T cells per kg (three in the dose-escalation phase and an addition nine in the dose-expansion phase), the overall response rate was 92% (11 of 12 patients) with nine (75%) patients having a complete response or better.

INTERPRETATION

Anti-BCMA/GPRC5D bispecific CAR T cells show a good safety profile and encouraging activity in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma.

FUNDING

National Natural Science Foundation of China.

TRANSLATION

For the Chinese translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

Cost-Effectiveness of Novel Agent Regimens for Transplant-Eligible Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma Patients in India

BACKGROUND

Survival outcomes for multiple myeloma have improved dramatically since the introduction of novel therapeutic agents. While these drugs are highly effective in improving survival outcomes and quality of life in patients with multiple myeloma, they come at a significant cost. We assessed the cost-effectiveness of bortezomib-based triplet or quadruplet drug regimens in isolation and followed by autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) for the treatment of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) in the Indian context.

METHODS

A Markov model was developed to assess the health and economic outcomes of novel drug regimens with and without AHSCT for the treatment of NDMM in India. We estimated the lifetime quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) and costs in each scenario. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were computed and compared against the current willingness-to-pay threshold of a one-time per capita gross domestic product of ₹146,890 (US$1,927.70) for India. Parameter uncertainty was assessed through Monte Carlo probabilistic sensitivity analysis.

RESULTS

Among seven treatment sequences, the VCd (bortezomib, cyclophosphamide, dexamethasone) alone arm has the lowest cost and health benefits as compared to four treatment sequences, namely VTd (bortezomib, thalidomide, dexamethasone) alone, VRd (bortezomib, lenalidomide, dexamethasone) alone, VRd plus AHSCT and DVRd (Daratumumab, bortezomib, lenalidomide, dexamethasone) plus AHSCT. It was found that VTd plus AHSCT and VCd plus AHSCT arms were extendedly dominated (ED) by combination of two alternative treatments. Among the five non-dominated strategies, VRd has a lowest incremental cost of ₹ 2,20,093 (US$2,888) per QALY gained compared to VTd alone followed by VRd plus AHSCT [₹3,14,530 (US$4,128) per QALY gained] in comparison to VRd alone. None of the novel treatment sequences were found to be cost-effective at the current WTP threshold of ₹1,46,890 (US$1,927.7).

CONCLUSION

At the current WTP threshold of one-time per capita GDP (₹ 146,890) of India, VRd alone and VRd plus AHSCT has 38.1% and 6.9% probability to be cost-effective, respectively. Reduction in current reimbursement rates of novel drugs, namely VRd, lenalidomide, and pomalidomide plus dexamethasone under national insurance program and societal cost of transplant by 50%, would make VRd plus AHSCT and VTd plus AHSCT cost-effective at an incremental cost of ₹40,671 (US$34) and ₹97,639 (US$1,281) per QALY gained, respectively.

Clinical consensus on treatments for transplant-ineligible newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: double-blinded Delphi panel

Aim: Obtain clinical consensus on factors impacting first-line prescribing for transplant-ineligible (TIE) patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). Materials & methods: A double-blinded, modified Delphi panel was employed. USA-based hematologists/oncologists who treat TIE patients with NDMM were selected as expert panelists. Results: Consensus was reached that patient frailty, performance status, comorbidities, treatment efficacy, and adverse event profile affect first-line prescribing. All panelists agreed it is important to use the most efficacious treatment first; 88% of panelists considered daratumumab-containing regimens the most efficacious. Panelists agreed treatment should be continued until progression while benefits outweigh risk. Conclusion: Findings reinforce the importance of using the most efficacious regimen upfront for TIE NDMM, and nearly all panelists considered daratumumab-containing regimens the most efficacious treatment.

Pomalidomide improves the effectiveness of CAR-T treatment in the relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma or B-cell leukemia/lymphoma with extramedullary disease

Relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) and B-cell leukemia/lymphoma with extramedullary disease (EMD) have poor prognosis and high mortality, lack of effective therapeutic approaches. We reported for the first time that 6 patients with malignant hematological diseases with EMD received chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T treatment combined with pomalidomide, and CAR-T cells were treated with pomalidomide in vitro to determine its killing activity and cytokine secretion. Three patients with RRMM were given B cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-CAR-T therapy. All 3 patients with B-cell leukemia/lymphoma received CD19/22-CAR-T sequential infusion. There were no treatment-related deaths. The maximum overall response rate (ORR) was 100%. Median follow-up was 211.5 days (75-407 days). Three patients (50%) experienced cytokine release syndrome, all of which were grade 1, and no neurotoxicity was observed. In vitro experiments showed that the killing activity did not differ significantly between BCMA-CAR-T cells with and without pomalidomide (10, 25, or 50 μg/mL) in 8226/U266 cell cocultures (P > .05). Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interferon (IFN)-γ secretion was significantly higher from 8226 and Raji cells cocultured with BCMA-CAR-T and cluster of differentiation (CD)19-CAR-T cells (P < .05). Based on the cocultures, adding pomalidomide significantly promoted IFN-γ and TNF-α secretion (P < .05). Based on the above clinical and in vitro studies demonstrating the co-administration of pomalidomide with CAR-T cell treatment demonstrated favorable tolerability and therapeutic effectiveness in RRMM or B-cell leukemia/lymphoma.

Predictive and prognostic molecular biomarkers in lymphomas

Recent advances in molecular diagnostics have markedly expanded our understanding of the genetic underpinnings of lymphomas and catalysed a transformation in not just how we classify lymphomas, but also how we treat, target, and monitor affected patients. Reflecting these advances, the World Health Organization Classification, International Consensus Classification, and National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines were recently updated to better integrate these molecular insights into clinical practice. We summarise here the molecular biomarkers of lymphomas with an emphasis on biomarkers that have well-supported prognostic and predictive utility, as well as emerging biomarkers that show promise for clinical practice. These biomarkers include: (1) diagnostic entity-defining genetic abnormalities [e.g., B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (B-ALL) with KMT2A rearrangement]; (2) molecular alterations that guide patients' prognoses (e.g., TP53 loss frequently conferring worse prognosis); (3) mutations that serve as the targets of, and often a source of acquired resistance to, small molecular inhibitors (e.g., ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors for B-ALL BCR::ABL1, hindered by ABL1 kinase domain resistance mutations); (4) the growing incorporation of molecular measurable residual disease (MRD) in the management of lymphoma patients (e.g., molecular complete response and sequencing MRD-negative criteria in multiple myeloma). Altogether, our review spans the spectrum of lymphoma types, from the genetically defined subclasses of precursor B-cell lymphomas to the highly heterogeneous categories of small and large cell mature B-cell lymphomas, Hodgkin lymphomas, plasma cell neoplasms, and T/NK-cell lymphomas, and provides an expansive summary of our current understanding of their molecular pathology.

Predictors and Impact of Timing of Disease Progression Following Primary Therapy in Multiple Myeloma

In multiple myeloma (MM) significant variation in progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) is observed. We examined the outcomes of 1557 MM patients stratified into short (<2 years), medium (between 2 and 5 years) and long (>5 years) PFS. Short PFS occurred in 758 patients (48.7%), medium in 561 patients (36.2%), and long in 238 patients (15.3%). Median post-progression PFS was 9.2 months (95% CI: 8.1-11.0) in the short PFS and 33.1 months (95% CI: 29.0-42.1; P < .001) in the long PFS group. Median post-progression OS was 26.6 months (95% CI: 23.9-29.8) in the short PFS and 87.8 months (95% CI: 71.3- NR; P < .001) in the long PFS. Worse survival in the short PFS was irrespective of high risk (HR) fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) features, defined as deletion 17p and/or translocation t(4;14), t(14;16), t(14;20). In a multivariable analysis short PFS was associated with HR FISH, extramedullary plasmacytoma, plasma cell labeling index ≥2% at diagnosis, nonimmunoglobulin G isotype, treatment without autologous stem cell transplantation and achieving less than very good partial remission. In conclusion, the duration of the PFS significantly influences survival, regardless of HR cytogenetic features. Therefore, it should be considered an important parameter for risk stratification in patients experiencing a relapse.

Progression-Free Survival of Daratumumab Versus Bortezomib Triplet Combination With Lenalidomide and Dexamethasone in Transplant Ineligible Patients With Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma: TAURUS Chart Review Study

BACKGROUND

Daratumumab, lenalidomide and dexamethasone (DRd) and bortezomib, lenalidomide and dexamethasone (VRd) are preferred regimens for transplant ineligible (TIE) patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). Both DRd and VRd demonstrated superior efficacy versus Rd in the MAIA and SWOG S0777 trials, respectively, but there is no head-to-head (H2H) clinical trial comparing their efficacy. Differing populations in the MAIA and S0777 trials make an unadjusted comparison of outcomes challenging and biased. The current TAURUS study is the first real-world H2H study comparing progression-free survival (PFS) among TIE NDMM patients treated with DRd or VRd as first-line (1L) in similar clinical settings.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A multicenter chart review study was conducted at nine sites across the United States. All TIE patients treated with DRd and a randomly selected population of VRd patients were included. TIE NDMM patients aged ≥65 were included if they initiated 1L DRd/VRd between January 2019 and September 2021. PFS was defined as the time from DRd/VRd initiation until disease progression or death. A doubly-robust multivariable Cox regression model combined with inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) methodology was used to compare PFS between cohorts.

RESULTS

Weighted cohorts comprised 91 DRd and 87 VRd patients. Thirteen DRd and 24 VRd patients experienced progression/death. Patients treated with DRd had a lower risk of progression/death versus VRd (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.35, 95% confidence interval: [0.17; 0.73]).

CONCLUSION

DRd is associated with a significantly lower risk of disease progression or death compared to VRd as 1L treatment for TIE NDMM patients.

Venous thromboembolism prophylaxis and multiple myeloma patients in real-life: Results of a large survey and clinical guidance recommendations from the IFM group

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) remains a critical issue in the management of patients with multiple myeloma (MM), particularly when immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) combined with dexamethasone therapy are being prescribed as first-line and relapse therapy. One possible explanation for the persistent high rates of VTE, is the use of inappropriate thromboprophylaxis strategies for patients starting antimyeloma treatment. To tackle the issue, the Intergroupe francophone du myélome (IFM) offered convenient guidance for VTE thromboprophylaxis in MM patients initiating systemic therapy. This guidance is mainly supported by the results of a large survey on the clinical habits regarding VTE of physicians who are substantially involved in daily care of MM patients. VTE prophylaxis should be considered for all patients treated with IMiDs in combination with dexamethasone, in the absence of significant comorbidities, such as renal failure or bleeding risk. Anticoagulant should be preferred to antiplatelet agents for thromboprophylaxis. Despite the absence of large randomized controlled trials comparing those attitudes/options, available data on direct oral anticoagulants, which are already used in daily management of MM patients, are consistent with their potential usefulness for VTE prophylaxis in such patients. However, in order to implement a personalized continuous improvement strategy, clinicians must to be organized to collect all the data regarding this management. In other situations, thromboprophylaxis should be evaluated by using risk models and after careful evaluation of the risk/benefit ratio.

Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy Impacts Quality of Life and Activities of Daily Living of Brazilian Multiple Myeloma Patients

BACKGROUND

Survival in multiple myeloma (MM) has improved in the past years with the introduction of immunomodulators and proteasome inhibitors. However, chemotherapyinduced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is associated with both drug classes affecting Health- Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) and activities of daily living (ADL).

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated CIPN in MM patients to identify associated factors and impacts on HRQoL and ADL.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study with Brazilian patients from public and private health services. Patients were interviewed using validated tools to measure CIPN and HRQoL, along with sociodemographic and clinical questions. Logistic regression was used to assess the association of CIPN with sociodemographic, clinical, and HRQoL variables.

RESULTS

In total, 217 patients were eligible for the study. The median age was 67, 50.9% were women, 51.6% had low income, 47.5% had low education, and 55.3% attended private health services. The chemotherapy regimen most used was the combination of cyclophosphamide, thalidomide, and dexamethasone (17.5%) among the 24 types of regimens found. Most patients (90.3%) had at least one CIPN symptom: 62.7% were severe, and 51.62% were extremely bothered ADL. Numbness was the most common symptom (40.6%). CIPN was independently associated with education, hospitalization, chemotherapy, side effects, disease symptoms, and global health status in HRQoL.

CONCLUSION

MM patients showed a high frequency of CIPN, which affected ADL and impaired HRQoL. Early and accurate detection of CIPN and dose management in patients with thalidomide and bortezomib-based regimens should be performed to provide better treatment outcomes and avoid permanent disabilities.

Long-term analysis of cellular immunity in patients with RRMM treated with CAR-T cell therapy

Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy exhibits remarkable efficacy against refractory or relapsed multiple myeloma (RRMM); however, the immune deficiency following CAR-Ts infusion has not been well studied. In this study, 126 patients who achieved remission post-CAR-Ts infusion were evaluated for cellular immunity. Following lymphodepletion (LD) chemotherapy, the absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) and absolute counts of lymphocyte subsets were significantly lower than baseline at D0. Grade ≥ 3 lymphopenia occurred in 99% of patients within the first 30 days, with most being resolved by 180 days. The median CD4+ T-cell count was consistently below baseline and the lower limit of normal (LLN) levels at follow-up. Conversely, the median CD8+ T-cell count returned to the baseline and LLN levels by D30. The median B-cell count remained lower than baseline level at D60 and returned to baseline and LLN levels at D180. In the first 30 days, 27 (21.4%) patients had 29 infections, with the majority being mild to moderate in severity (21/29; 72.4%). After day 30, 44 (34.9%) patients had 56 infections, including 20 severe infections. One patient died from bacteremia at 3.8 months post-CAR-Ts infusion. In conclusion, most patients with RRMM experienced cellular immune deficiency caused by LD chemotherapy and CAR-Ts infusion. The ALC and most lymphocyte subsets gradually recovered after day 30 of CAR-Ts infusion, except for CD4+ T cells. Some patients experience prolonged CD4+ T-cell immunosuppression without severe infection.

A glimpse into relapsed refractory multiple myeloma treatment in real-world practice in Spain: the GeminiS study

OBJECTIVES

To describe the incorporation of monoclonal antibodies (mAb) in real-world (RW) practice for the treatment of patients with relapsed refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) in a setting with other treatment alternatives.

METHODS

This was an observational, multicenter, ambispective study of RRMM treated with or without a mAb.

RESULTS

A total of 171 patients were included. For the group treated without mAb, the median (95% CI) progression-free survival (PFS) to relapse was 22.4 (17.8-27.0) months; partial response or better (≥PR) and complete response or better (≥CR) was observed in 74.1% and 24.1% of patients, respectively; and median time to first response in first relapse was 2.0 months and in second relapse was 2.5 months. For the group of patients treated with mAb in first or second relapse, the median PFS was 20.9 (95% CI, could not be evaluated) months; the ≥ PR and ≥ CR rates were 76,2% and 28.6%, respectively; and the median time to first response in first relapse was 1.2 month and in second relapse was 1.0 months. The safety profiles for the combinations were consistent with those expected.

CONCLUSIONS

The incorporation of mAb in RW practice for the treatment of RRMM has shown good quality and speed of response with a similar safety profile shown in randomized clinical trials.

Hematologists' awareness of venous thromboembolism in multiple myeloma: a national survey in China

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is one of the most common and severe complications of multiple myeloma (MM). The aim of this study was to learn about the current awareness regarding MM-associated VTE among Chinese hematologists.

METHODS

A nationwide, online, questionnaire-based survey was sent to the specialized hematologists in mainland China. The questionnaire investigated respondents' demographic and occupational characteristics, their ability to identify VTE risk factors, and their thromboprophylaxis decisions for different anti-MM regimens. Six clinical vignettes were used to evaluate hematologists' awareness of stratified thromboprophylaxis. The data were analyzed using SPSS software.

RESULTS

A total of 518 valid questionnaires were received. Of the 518 hematologists investigated, only 23.7% of them could identify VTE-related risk factors correctly. Most hematologists could select appropriate thromboprophylaxis for common anti-MM regimens such as VCd (bortezomib, cyclophosphamide, and dexamethasone) and VRd (bortezomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone), but not for uncommon ones such as VTD-PACE (bortezomib, thalidomide, dexamethasone, cisplatin, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, and etoposide) and KRd (carfilzomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone). The results from the vignettes suggested that only 19.5% of the hematologists could be defined as the 'stratified thromboprophylaxis' group, and the awareness of stratified thromboprophylaxis depended significantly on physicians' age and working seniority.

CONCLUSION

The results of our study showed that a large proportion of Chinese hematologists failed to recognize the VTE risk factors, most of them cannot select appropriate thromboprophylaxis for different MM therapeutic regimens and lack awareness of stratified thromboprophylaxis for MM-associated VTE. A standard VTE prevention guideline is urgently needed for the Chinese myeloma group. Continuous education for new professionals should be encouraged. A VTE collaborative group is supposed to be established in each hospital to enhance the overall medical care for VTE patients.

Direct oral anticoagulants versus aspirin for primary thromboprophylaxis in patients with multiple myeloma undergoing outpatient therapy: A systematic review and updated meta-analysis

Patients with multiple myeloma (MM) are at an elevated risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), which is further increased for those undergoing anti-myeloma therapy. Current guidelines suggest low-dose direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) as an alternative to aspirin for primary thromboprophylaxis in this population, but data comparing these two therapies are limited. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare DOACs with aspirin for primary thromboprophylaxis in individuals undergoing outpatient anti-myeloma therapy. Studies were selected when comparing DOACs versus aspirin for thrombotic and haemorrhagic outcomes. We included 10 randomised controlled trials and observational studies comprising 1026 patients with MM who received primary thromboprophylaxis with DOACs (n = 337) or aspirin (n = 689). DOAC thromboprophylaxis was associated with a significantly lower incidence of VTE compared with aspirin (OR 0.33; 95% CI 0.16-0.68; p < 0.001). Major, clinically relevant non-major and minor bleeding event rates did not differ significantly between groups. Overall, our meta-analysis suggests that DOACs may be a preferable option to aspirin for the prevention of MM-related thrombosis. However, these results should be interpreted in the context of heterogeneous baseline population characteristics and potential bias from including observational studies. Further research is needed to evaluate the optimal thromboprophylaxis strategy, particularly in high-risk individuals.

Cellular immunity in the era of modern multiple myeloma therapy

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a relapsing clonal plasma cell malignancy and incurable thus far. With the increasing understanding of myeloma, highlighting the critical importance of the immune system in the pathogenesis of MM is essential. The immune changes in MM patients after treatment are associated with prognosis. In this review, we summarize currently available MM therapies and discuss how they affect cellular immunity. We find that the modern anti-MM treatments enhance antitumour immune responses. A deeper understanding of the therapeutic activity of individual drugs offers more effective treatment approaches that enhance the beneficial immunomodulatory effects. Furthermore, we show that the immune changes after treatment in MM patients can provide useful prognostic marker. Analysing cellular immune responses offers new perspectives for evaluating clinical data and making comprehensive predictions for applying novel therapies in MM patients.

Development and validation of a new risk assessment model for immunomodulatory drug-associated venous thrombosis among Chinese patients with multiple myeloma

BACKGROUND

Individuals with multiple myeloma (MM) receiving immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) are at risk of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE), a serious complication. There is no established clinical model for predicting VTE in the Chinese population. We develop a new risk assessment model (RAM) for IMiD-associated VTE in Chinese MM patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively selected 1334 consecutive MM patients receiving IMiDs from 16 medical centers in China and classified them randomly into the derivation and validation cohorts. A multivariate Cox regression model was used for analysis.

RESULTS

The overall incidence of IMiD-related VTE in Chinese MM patients was 6.1%. Independent predictive factors of VTE (diabetes, ECOG performance status, erythropoietin-stimulating agent use, dexamethasone use, and VTE history or family history of thrombosis) were identified and merged to develop the RAM. The model identified approximately 30% of the patients in each cohort at high risk for VTE. The hazard ratios (HRs) were 6.08 (P < 0.001) and 6.23 (P < 0.001) for the high-risk subcohort and the low-risk subcohort, respectively, within both the derivation and validation cohorts. The RAM achieved satisfactory discrimination with a C statistic of 0.64. The stratification approach of the IMWG guidelines yielded respective HRs of 1.77 (P = 0.053) and 1.81 (P = 0.063). The stratification approach of the SAVED score resulted in HRs of 3.23 (P = 0.248) and 1.65 (P = 0.622), respectively. The IMWG guideline and the SAVED score-based method yielded C statistics of 0.58 and 0.51, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The new RAM outperformed the IMWG guidelines and the SAVED score and could potentially guide the VTE prophylaxis strategy for Chinese MM patients.

In-class transition (iCT) of proteasome inhibitor-based therapy: a community approach to multiple myeloma management

Long-term proteasome inhibitor (PI) treatment can improve multiple myeloma (MM) outcomes, but this can be difficult to achieve in clinical practice due to toxicity, comorbidities, and the burden of repeated parenteral administration. US MM-6 (NCT03173092) enrolled transplant-ineligible patients with newly diagnosed MM to receive all-oral ixazomib-lenalidomide-dexamethasone (IRd; ≤39 cycles or until progression or toxicity) following three cycles of bortezomib-based induction. Primary endpoint: 2-year progression-free survival (PFS). Key secondary/exploratory endpoints included overall response rate (ORR), overall survival (OS), safety, quality of life (QoL), treatment satisfaction, and actigraphy. At datacut, in the fully accrued cohort of 140 patients, median age was 73 years with 42% aged ≥75 and 61% deemed frail; 10% of patients were ongoing on treatment. After a median follow-up of 27 months, the 2-year PFS rate was 71% (95% confidence interval: 61-78). ORR increased from 62% at the end of induction to 80% following in-class transition (iCT) to IRd for a median of 11 months. The 2-year OS rate was 86%. The overall safety profile/actigraphy levels were consistent with previous reports; QoL/treatment satisfaction scores were stable with ongoing therapy. iCT to IRd may allow prolonged PI-based therapy with promising efficacy and a tolerable safety profile, while maintaining QoL.

Anti-CD38 antibody isatuximab monotherapy for Japanese individuals with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma: An update of the phase 1/2 ISLANDs study

The primary analysis of the phase 1/2 ISLANDs study in Japanese individuals with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) showed that isatuximab monotherapy was well tolerated and effective, even in participants with high-risk cytogenetic abnormalities. Here, we report a prespecified second analysis conducted 20 months after the first dosing of the last participant (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02812706). The primary objectives were to evaluate the safety and tolerability of isatuximab in phase 1 and to evaluate the efficacy of isatuximab, including assessment of overall response rate (ORR) at the recommended dose (RD), in phase 2. In phase 1, three participants received isatuximab 10 mg/kg every week (QW) for 4 weeks/cycle followed by every 2 weeks (Q2W) and five participants received 20 mg/kg QW/Q2W. Since no dose-limiting toxicities occurred in phase 1, 20 mg/kg QW/Q2W was identified as the RD for the phase 2 study (n = 28). At the time of data cut-off, three participants (one in phase 1 and two in phase 2) continued to receive isatuximab; disease progression and treatment-related adverse events were the most common reasons for treatment discontinuation. The overall safety profile was consistent with the primary analysis. One death, not related to isatuximab treatment, was reported since the first analysis. The ORR and clinical benefit rate remained unchanged from the primary analysis at 36.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 20.4%-54.9%) and 54.5% (95% CI: 36.4%-71.9%), respectively. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 5.6 months, longer than the median PFS reported in the primary analysis (4.7 months), whereas median overall survival was not reached. Overall, isatuximab 20 mg/kg QW/Q2W had an acceptable safety and tolerability profile and showed promising antitumor activity in Japanese individuals with RRMM.

Anti-G Protein-Coupled Receptor, Class C Group 5 Member D Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells in Patients With Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma: A Single-Arm, Phase Ⅱ Trial

PURPOSE

G protein-coupled receptor, class C group 5 member D (GPRC5D) is considered to be a promising surface target for multiple myeloma (MM) immunotherapy. Here, we report the efficacy and safety of anti-GPRC5D chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells in patients with relapsed or refractory (R/R) MM.

METHODS

This phase Ⅱ, single-arm study enrolled patients (18-70 years) with R/R MM. Lymphodepletion was performed before patients received 2 × 106/kg anti-GPRC5D CAR T cells. The primary end point was the proportion of patients who achieved an overall response. Safety was also evaluated in eligible patients.

RESULTS

From September 1, 2021, to March 23, 2022, 33 patients were infused with anti-GPRC5D CAR T cells. At a median follow-up of 5.2 months (range, 3.2-8.9), the overall response rate was 91% (95% CI, 76 to 98; 30 of 33 patients), including 11 (33%) stringent complete responses, 10 (30%) complete responses, four (12%) very good partial responses, and five (15%) partial responses. Partial responses or better were observed in nine (100%) of nine patients with previous anti-B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) CAR T-cell therapy, including two patients who had received repeated anti-BCMA CAR T-cell infusions with no responses at the last time. Grade 3 or higher hematologic toxicities were neutropenia (33 [100%]), anemia (17 [52%]), and thrombocytopenia (15 [45%]). Cytokine release syndrome occurred in 25 (76%) of 33 patients (all were grade 1 or 2), and neurotoxicities in three patients (one grade 2 and one grade 3 ICANSs and one grade 3 headache).

CONCLUSION

Anti-GPRC5D CAR T-cell therapy showed an encouraging clinical efficacy and manageable safety profile in patients with R/R MM. For patients with MM that progressed after anti-BCMA CAR T-cell therapy or that is refractory to anti-BCMA CAR T cell, anti-GPRC5D CAR T-cell therapy might be a potential alternative option.

A phase I first-in-man study to investigate the pharmacokinetics and safety of liposomal dexamethasone in patients with progressive multiple myeloma

Despite the introduction of multiple new drugs and combination therapies, conventional dexamethasone remains a cornerstone in the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM). Its application is, however, limited by frequent adverse effects of which the increased infection rate may have the strongest clinical impact. The efficacy-safety ratio of dexamethasone in MM may be increased by encapsulation in long-circulating PEG-liposomes, thereby both enhancing drug delivery to MM lesions and reducing systemic corticosteroid exposure. We evaluated the preliminary safety and feasibility of a single intravenous (i.v.) infusion of pegylated liposomal dexamethasone phosphate (Dex-PL) in heavily pretreated relapsing or progressive symptomatic MM patients within a phase I open-label non-comparative interventional trial at two dose levels. In the 7 patients that were enrolled (prior to having to close the study prematurely due to slow recruitment), Dex-PL was found to be well tolerated and, as compared to conventional dexamethasone, no new or unexpected adverse events were detected. Pharmacokinetic analysis showed high and persisting concentrations of dexamethasone in the circulation for over a week after i.v. administration, likely caused by the long-circulation half-life of the liposomes that retain dexamethasone as the inactive phosphate prodrug form, something which could significantly limit systemic exposure to the active parent drug. Thus, despite the limitations of this small first-in-man trial, Dex-PL seems safe and well tolerated without severe side effects. Follow-up studies are needed to confirm this in a larger patient cohort and to evaluate if i.v. Dex-PL can provide a safer and more efficacious dexamethasone treatment option for MM.

Chemotherapy Induced Cardiotoxicity: A State of the Art Review on General Mechanisms, Prevention, Treatment and Recent Advances in Novel Therapeutics

As medicine advances to employ sophisticated anticancer agents to treat a vast array of oncological conditions, it is worth considering side effects associated with several chemotherapeutics. One adverse effect observed with several classes of chemotherapy agents is cardiotoxicity which leads to reduced ejection fraction (EF), cardiac arrhythmias, hypertension and Ischemia/myocardial infarction that can significantly impact the quality of life and patient outcomes. Research into possible mechanisms has elucidated several mechanisms, such as ROS generation, calcium overload and apoptosis. However, there is a relative scarcity of literature detailing the relationship between the exact mechanism of cardiotoxicity for each anticancer agent and observed clinical effects. This review comprehensively describes cardiotoxicity associated with various classes of anticancer agents and possible mechanisms. Further research exploring possible mechanisms for cardiotoxicity observed with anticancer agents could provide valuable insight into susceptibility for developing symptoms and management guidelines. Chemotherapeutics are associated with several side effects. Several classes of chemotherapy agents cause cardiotoxicity leading to a reduced ejection fraction (EF), cardiac arrhythmias, hypertension, and Ischemia/myocardial infarction. Research into possible mechanisms has elucidated several mechanisms, such as ROS generation, calcium overload, and apoptosis. However, there is a relative scarcity of literature detailing the relationship between the exact mechanism of cardiotoxicity for each anticancer agent and observed clinical effects. This review describes cardiotoxicity associated with various classes of anticancer agents and possible mechanisms. Further research exploring mechanisms for cardiotoxicity observed with anticancer agents could provide insight that will guide management.

The Relationship of CCL5 and CCR1 Variants with Response Rate and Survival Taking into Account Thalidomide/Bortezomib Treatment in Patients with Multiple Myeloma

(1) Background: Chemokines and chemokine receptors play an important role in tumor development. The aim of this study was to check the significance of CCL5 and CCR1 variants with response rate, survival, and the level of regulated on activation, normal T cells expressed and secreted (RANTES/CCL5) in multiple myeloma (MM) patients; (2) Methods: Genomic DNA from 101 newly diagnosed MM patients and 100 healthy blood donors were analyzed by Real-time PCR method (for CCL5 and CCR1 genotyping). In a subgroup of 70 MM patients, serum samples were collected to determine the level of RANTES; (3) Results: multivariate Cox regression showed increased risk of disease relapse or progression (HR = 4.77; p = 0.01) in MM patients with CG + CC genotypes of CCL5 rs2280788. In contrast, CT + TT genotypes of CCL5 rs2107538 were associated withdecreased risk of death (HR = 0.18; p = 0.028) and disease relapse or progression (HR = 0.26; p = 0.01). In MM patients with major genotypes of rs2280789, rs2280788, and rs2107538, higher survival rates were observed in response to treatment with thalidomide and bortezomib. Statistically significant lower RANTES levels were seen in minor genotypes and heterozygotes of CCL5 and CCR1 variants; (4) Conclusions: Major genotypes of CCL5 variants may be independent positive prognostic factors in MM.

Thrombosis in multiple myeloma: Risk estimation by induction regimen and association with overall survival

Lenalidomide-containing (R) triplet and quadruplet regimens are the standard of care for multiple myeloma (MM) and have been shown to increase the risk of thrombosis. The association between thromboembolism (TE) and survival in the novel multidrug era is not yet delineated. In this study, we evaluated the incidence of TE during the first year of MM diagnosis, its association with the type of induction regimen, and its impact on overall survival. We studied 672 newly diagnosed MM (NDMM) patients who received a triplet or quadruplet lenalidomide-based induction at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester. TE was diagnosed in 83 patients (12.4%). Of these, 56 (8.3%) had a deep venous thrombosis (DVT), 23 (3.4%) had a pulmonary embolism (PE) with or without the DVT, and 4 (0.6%) patients had a stroke. Carfilzomib-Rd (KRd) had the highest risk of TE (21.1%, 18/85), followed by quadruplets (11.1%, 5/45), bortezomib-Rd (9.6%, 51/531), and 0/11 (0%), treated with other lenalidomide-containing regimens. The difference in TE risk between KRd and the other regimens was statistically significant (OR = 2.6, p < .01). Nine patients developed a TE before being exposed to any treatment. Survival was significantly lower among patients that developed a TE (66 vs. 133 months, p < .01). The association of TE with reduced survival demonstrated in univariate analysis (HR = 2.2, 95% CI = 1.6-3.3) was maintained in the multivariable analysis adjusted for high-risk interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), sex, age, receipt of an upfront transplant, the response at induction, and the International Staging System (ISS) (HR = 2.61, CI = 1.74-3.9). We conclude that TE is an important aspect of MM management, and effective management is especially relevant in the novel treatment era.

Monoclonal Gammopathy of Thrombotic Significance

The current review provides an overview of the thrombotic risk observed in patients with MG who do not otherwise require treatment. We discuss clinical and biomarker studies that highlight the heterogenous hemostatic profile observed in these patients and how knowledge has evolved over the past 20 years. Biomarker studies suggest shared biologic features between multiple myeloma and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), which involves both hypercoagulability and platelet activation. Hemostatic abnormalities identified in MGUS patients cannot be translated into clinical practice as they lack correlation to clinical events. The prothrombotic phenotype of MGUS patients has not been ascertained yet, but novel data on coagulation markers are promising. We also review rare conditions associated with the thrombogenic properties of the monoclonal protein that predispose to arterial, venous or microthrombotic events and demonstrate that the M-protein can be linked to clinically significant thrombotic events. Cryoglobulinemia, cryofibrinogenemia, cryo-crystaloglobulinemia and MG-related antiphospholipid syndrome are reviewed. We propose the new umbrella term "monoclonal gammopathy of thrombotic significance" (MGTS) to refer to significant, recurrent thrombotic events in patients with MGUS that provide a rationale for targeting the underlying plasma cell clone. Identifying MGUS patients at high risk for thrombotic events is currently a challenge.

External validation of the SAVED score for venous thromboembolism risk stratification in patients with multiple myeloma receiving immunomodulatory drugs

Selective patients with multiple myeloma (MM) receiving immunomodulatory drugs (IMiD) are at high risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE). The SAVED score is a VTE risk prediction model recently incorporated into the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines. Using retrospective data from 501 MM patients with new IMiD initiation between 2010 and 2019, we performed the first independent external validation of this model. The cumulative incidence of VTE after IMiD initiation at 6 and 12 months was 32% and 42% in the high-risk group, versus 6% and 9% in the low-risk group respectively. The C-statistic of the SAVED score to predict VTE within 12 months of IMiD-based treatment start was 0.74 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.69-0.78], which outperformed several other VTE risk models in MM patients. Our findings suggest that the SAVED score is an accurate risk assessment tool for VTE stratification in patients initiating IMiD-containing regimens.

Bleeding risk in patients with multiple myeloma treated for venous thromboembolism: a MarketScan analysis

Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) is associated with high risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Thromboprophylaxis is thoroughly studied in MM. Contrarily, studies assessing the risk of bleeding in people with MM on anticoagulation are lacking.

Objectives

To determine the rate of serious bleeding in patients with MM receiving anticoagulation for VTE and the clinical factors associated with bleeding risk.

Methods

Using the MarketScan commercial database, we identified 1298 people with MM treated with anticoagulation for incident VTE events between 2011 and 2019. Hospitalized bleeding was identified using the Cunningham algorithm. Rates of bleeding were calculated and Cox regression identified risk factors for bleeding.

Results

Bleeding occurred in 51 (3.9%) cases during median follow-up of 1.13 years. Rate of bleeding among patients with MM on anticoagulation was 24.0 per 1000 person-years. In adjusted regression, factors associated with increased bleeding included age (HR, 1.31 per 10-year increase; 95% CI, 1.03-1.65), Charlson comorbidity index (HR, 1.29 per SD increase; 95% CI, 1.02-1.58), use of antiplatelet agents (HR, 2.4; 95% CI, 1.03-5.68), diabetes (HR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.06-3.26), and renal disease (HR, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.05-3.16). Cumulative incidence of bleeding was 4.7%, 3.2%, and 3.4% for warfarin, low molecular weight heparin, and direct oral anticoagulants, respectively.

Conclusion

In this real-world analysis, the rate of bleeding in people with MM on anticoagulation was comparable to those in other subsets of cancer-related VTE. Bleeding rate was lower with low molecular weight heparin and direct oral anticoagulants than warfarin. Higher comorbidity index, diabetes, antiplatelet agent use, and renal disease were risk factors for serious bleeding.

Consolidation and maintenance therapy with bortezomib for Vietnamese patients with multiple myeloma after autologous transplantation

Thirty patients with newly diagnosed symtomatic MM (multiple myeloma) received ASCT (autologous stem cell transplantation) and two cycles of bortezomib-cyclophosphamide-dexamethasone as consolidation treatment followed by maintenance of bortezomib for 24 months. 16 patients achieved complete response (CR) after ASCT, and two more patients achieved CR after consolidation therapy. At 92 months of follow-up, the median OS was 69.5 months, the median PFS was 38.5 months. OS and PFS in the high-risk group were shorter than in the standard-risk group with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.028, 0.049; respectively). Post-ASCT consolidation and maintenance therapy using bortezomib were effective in patients with MM.

Response and Dynamics of Renal Function in Transplantation-Eligible Multiple Myeloma Patients Treated with a Novel Agent: The CAREMM-2201 Study

Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) frequently results in renal impairment (RI), and its natural course has not been fully elucidated in the era of novel agents. We aimed to identify the dynamics of renal function after autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) following induction treatment using a novel agent in transplantation-eligible NDMM patients with RI (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] ≤50 mL/min/1.73 m²) at diagnosis. The factors associated with achieving a renal response based on the term renal benefit regardless of baseline eGFR were investigated as well. In a multicenter registry database including 1795 patients with plasma cell disorder, 140 transplantation-eligible NDMM patients who developed RI at the time of initiation of treatment for NDMM were identified. They received protocol-based treatment (PBT) consisting of induction treatment using proteasome inhibitors and/or immunomodulatory drugs followed by ASCT. MM and renal responses were evaluated using the International Myeloma Working Group response criteria. To evaluate the standardized improvement of renal function irrespective of baseline eGFR, renal benefit was defined as a sustained (for at least 3 months) increase in eGFR >15 mL/min/1.73 m². The mean patient age was 54.7 ± 7.4 years. With a mean baseline eGFR of 24.8 ± 13.9, the renal complete response (renalCR) and renal benefit rates were 49.3% and 67.9%, respectively. In a multivariable analysis, the 3 factors significantly associated with reduced likelihood of achieving both renalCR and renal benefit were age ≥55 years, light chain type NDMM, and failure to improve eGFR by 5 mL/min/1.73 m² with supportive care when measured 3 days prior to induction therapy and at the initiation of chemotherapy. Hypertension and advanced eGFR also were associated with poor renalCR achievement. The mean eGFR improved until the time of ASCT and then decreased gradually over time. The mean eGFR improved significantly until 4 months post-PBT compared with each eGFR at previous time points, but this significant improvement disappeared by 5 months post-PBT. In a subgroup of patients who developed RI after undergoing ASCT (n = 55), the eGFR increased temporarily at 1 month post-ASCT; however, this improvement reverted to baseline at 2 months post-ASCT. Among another subgroup of 27 patients who were dialysis-dependent at the time of initial treatment, 18 (66.7%) were no longer dialysis-dependent after a median of 60 days. The best renal response was acquired early during the PBT period, and ASCT did not have a robust impact on the renal outcome. Patients who failed to achieve a renal benefit should be provided with the best supportive care for chronic kidney disease, and this simplified criterion for evaluating the renal response needs to be validated in larger studies before it can be recommended. © 2022 American Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy. Published by Elsevier Inc.

A combination of pre-infusion serum ferritin, CRP and IL-6 predicts outcome in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma patients treated with CAR-T cells

Background

Chimeric antigen receptor - T (CAR-T) cell therapy has shown remarkable efficacy in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (R/R MM). However, a subset of patients still experienced progression or relapse, and the predictors of prognosis are little known. We analyzed the inflammatory markers before CAR-T cell infusion, to clarify their correlation with survival and toxicity.

Methods

This study involved 109 R/R MM patients who received CAR-T therapy between June 2017 and July 2021. Inflammatory markers, including ferritin, c-reactive protein (CRP), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) before CAR-T cell infusion were detected and then categorized by quartiles. Adverse events and clinical outcomes were compared between patients with upper quartile of inflammatory markers and patients with lower three quartiles of inflammatory markers. An inflammatory prognostic index (InPI) based on these three inflammatory markers was developed in this study. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to the InPI score, progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were compared among the groups. In addition, we explored the correlation between cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and pre-infusion inflammatory markers.

Results

We found that the pre-infusion high ferritin (hazard ratio [HR], 3.382; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.667 to 6.863; P = .0007), high CRP (HR, 2.043; 95% CI, 1.019 to 4.097; P = .044), and high IL-6 (HR, 3.298; 95% CI, 1.598 to 6.808; P = .0013) were significantly associated with inferior OS. The formula of the InPI score was based on the HR value of these 3 variables. Three risk groups were formed: (good, 0 to 0.5 point; intermediate, 1 to 1.5 points; poor, 2 to 2.5 points). Median OS for patients with good, intermediate, and poor InPI was not reached, 24 months, and 4 months, respectively, and median PFS was 19.1 months, 12.3 months, and 2.9 months, respectively. In the cox proportional hazards model, poor InPI remained an independent prognostic factor for PFS and OS. Pre-infusion ferritin was negatively associated with CAR T-cell expansion normalized to baseline tumor burden. Spearman correlation analysis showed that pre-infusion ferritin and IL-6 levels positively correlated with the grade of CRS (P = .0369 and P = .0117, respectively). The incidence of severe CRS was higher in patients with high IL-6 compared with patients with low IL-6 (26% vs. 9%, P = .0405). Pre-infusion ferritin, CRP and IL-6 were positively correlated with each peak values within the first month after infusion.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that patients with elevated inflammation markers before CAR-T cell infusion are more likely to have poor prognosis.

Clinical, Laboratory, Cytometry and Cytogenetic Characteristics of a Cohort of Patients Diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma for the First Time in a Third-Level Hospital in Medellín, Colombia, Survival after 8 Years of Follow-Up

Background:  Multiple myeloma is the second most common hematologic malignancy after lymphomas. Few studies have characterized significant and full variables at the time of diagnosis of multiple myeloma in Colombia, and there is no data evaluating patients for follow-up. Materials and Methods:  A retrospective cohort study is presented, describing the clinical, laboratory, cytometric, and cytogenetic characteristics of patients with a de novo diagnosis of multiple myeloma evaluated in a reference hematology laboratory attached to a highly complex hospital in Medellín, Colombia.  We follow them until death as a main outcome. Results:  A total of 170 patients with a de novo diagnosis of multiple myeloma were collected from a database of 421 patients with different monoclonal gammopathies. Mainly, it was found that 50.8% of the patients were men; the median age was 62 years; 65.4% had secretion of the IgG kappa; half of the patients presented International Staging System (ISS) Stage III. The β2 macroglobulin >4 mg/L and creatinine >2 mg/dl were the main variables significantly associated with survival (Hazard Ratio (HR) 2.4 and 2, respectively). Eighty-five percent of patients presented with bone lytic lesion involvement and less than 3% with extramedullary involvement. Conventional Banding Karyotype (CBK) genetic risk assessment yield was poor, compared with although scarce data regarding Cytogenetic risk assessment based on Fluorescence in-situ Hybridization (FISH). Conclusion:  The clinical profile of the patients with a de novo diagnosis of multiple myeloma in our cohort is similar to that described in international studies. The diagnosis of multiple myeloma was documented at younger ages, with more advanced stages, anemia, and a high percentage of bone disease. ISS provides an excellent tool for prognosis purposes. Cytogenetic risk assessment based on FISH should be done for all MM patients from therapeutic implications. We need standardized protocols for bone marrow sample manipulation and processing in order to guarantee good correlation for plasma cells count methods.

Approach to Contemporary Risk Assessment, Prevention and Management of Thrombotic Complications in Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma (MM) is associated with an increased risk of thrombotic complications, which remains substantial despite the implementation of thromboprophylaxis. The procoagulant state that characterizes the disease is multifactorial, and a greater understanding of the underlying pathophysiology is required to inform appropriate thrombosis prevention. Currently, there is a shift towards using direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in this setting; head-to-head comparisons in the context of controlled clinical trials between class agents are still missing. MM-specific VTE risk assessment scores have been developed to optimize management and minimize the associated mortality/morbidity. Their clinical utility remains to be evaluated. The value of adding biomarkers to clinical scores to optimize their performance and increase their discriminatory power is also under assessment.

Thromboprophylaxis in multiple myeloma

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) in multiple myeloma (MM) can be secondary to patient-, disease-, and/or treatment-related factors. The development of VTE may result in significant morbidity with the highest risk during the first year after diagnosis. This clinical review provides an evidence-based summary to guide practicing oncologists in the use of anticoagulation to prevent VTE in multiple myeloma and includes anticoagulation efficacy and adverse effect profile. We highlight the pathophysiology of VTE in MM, the use of various risk prediction tools, and the current recommendations for the use of different anticoagulants in prophylaxis of VTE.

Clinical features and prognosis of multiple myeloma and orbital extramedullary disease: Seven cases report and review of literature

BACKGROUND

Multiple myeloma (MM) complicated with extramedullary disease (EMD) has a poor prognosis and is a limiting factor in the treatment of MM, and no standard treatment is recommended in international guidelines. Few studies have reported MM with periorbital EMD.

CASE SUMMARY

In this paper, the clinical characteristics and survival of seven patients with multiple myeloma and orbital are described and analyzed. The common ocular symptoms were blurred vision, proptosis and/or eye movement disorders, IgG type MM may be a risk factor for orbital involvement. Of them, six patients were treated with bortezomib-based regimens. The median overall survival (OS) and progression free survival for the entire cohort were 48 and 33 mo, respectively, which was much worse than the OS reported for MM patients without orbital EMD.

CONCLUSION

Orbital MM may have significantly shortened survival for the entire cohort, so multidisciplinary collaboration is emphasized and recommended in the diagnosis and treatment of these difficult cases.

Comparing the efficacy of different dexamethasone regimens for maintenance treatment of multiple myeloma in standard-risk patients non-eligible for transplantation

BACKGROUND

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma cell malignancy, while MM outcomes have significantly improved due to novel agents and combinations, MM remains an incurable disease. The key goal of treatment in MM is to achieve a maximal response and the subsequent consolidation of response after initial therapy. Many studies analyzed an improved progression-free survival (PFS) following lenalidomide alone maintenance versus placebo or observation after autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) in patients with NDMM. In the SWOG S0777 clinical trial, patients newly diagnosed with MM (NDMM) without ASCT received lenalidomide plus low-dose dexamethasone (DXM) maintenance until progressive disease, where PFS and overall survival (OS) were significantly improved. In the present study, we assessed the efficacy and toxicity of the different doses of DXM combined with lenalidomide for maintenance treatment of NDMM for transplant noneligible patients in the standard-risk group.

AIM

To investigate the efficacy and adverse effects of different administration modes of DXM combined with lenalidomide for maintenance treatment of MM in standard-risk patients ineligible for transplantation.

METHODS

A total of 96 MM patients were enrolled in this study, among whom 48 patients received maintenance treatment that consisted of oral administration of 25 milligrams (mg) of lenalidomide from days 1-21 and 40 mg of DXM on days 1, 8, 15, and 22 (DXM 40 mg group), repeated every 4 wk. Another group was treated with oral administration of 25 mg of lenalidomide from days 1-21 and 20 mg of DXM on days 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, and 22-23 (DXM 20 mg group), which was also repeated every 4 wk.

RESULTS

The median PFS was 37.25 mo in the DXM 40.00 mg group and 38.17 mo in the DXM 20 mg group (P = 0.171). The median OS was 50.78 mo in the DXM 40 mg group and 51.69 mo in the DXM 20 mg group (P = 0.171). Fourteen patients in the DXM 40 mg group and 6 patients in the DXM 20 mg group suffered from adverse gastrointestinal reactions after the oral administration of the DXM tablet (P = 0.044). Ten patients suffered from abnormal glucose tolerance (GTA), impaired fasting glucose (IFG), or diabetes mellitus in the DXM 40 mg group during our observation time compared to 19 patients with GTA, IFG, or DM in the DXM 20 mg group (P = 0.033). Abnormal β-crosslaps or higher were found in 5 patients in the DXM 40 mg group and 12 patients in the DXM 20 mg group (P = 0.049). Insomnia or an increase in insomnia compared to the previous condition was evident in 2 patients in the DXM 40 mg group after maintenance treatment for more than 6 mo compared to 11 patients in the DXM 20 mg group (P = 0.017).

CONCLUSION

The DXM 40 mg group exhibited efficacy similar to that of the DXM 20 mg group. However, the DXM 40 mg group had significantly decreased toxicity compared with the DXM 20 mg group in the long term.

Front-line treatment efficacy and clinical outcomes of elderly patients with multiple myeloma in a real-world setting: A multicenter retrospective study in China

BACKGROUND

The use of proteasome inhibitors (PIs), new immune modulators (IMiDs), and other new drugs, as well as high-dose chemotherapy combined with autologous stem cell transplantation has considerably improved the survival of young patients with multiple myeloma (MM). However, the improvement in survival among elderly patients remains insufficient. Optimal treatment recommendation models for elderly patients with MM have not been developed especially there are quite few study in the real world.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the treatment patterns and outcomes of 328 Chinese patients (≥65 years) with MM in a real-world setting. Patients were divided into three groups according to induction regimens.

RESULTS

The median age of the cohort was 70 (65-86) years. The patients were divided into group 1 (PIs based regimens, n = 218), group 2 (IMiDs based regimens, n = 48) and group 3 (PIs + IMiDs, n = 62). Induction regimens in group 3 produced higher overall response rate than group 1 and 2 (85.42% vs. 71.08% vs. 66.67%, p = 0.016). The median follow-up of the cohort was 30 (interquartile range [IQR] 18-36) months. For the entire cohort median progression-free survival (PFS) was 26 (IQR 12.00-42.89) months and overall survival (OS) was 60 (IQR 40.00-67.20) months. The PFS were not significantly different among the three groups (28 months vs. 18 months vs. 26 months, p = 0.182). So were the OS (60 months vs. 59 months vs. not reached, p = 0.067). Multivariate analysis revealed that age >70 year, frailty status (Geriatric vulnerability score), induction efficacy < partial remission, and no maintenance treatment were independent poor prognostic factors for OS.

CONCLUSION

Front-line induction regimens combining PIs and IMiDs developed more deep response than single PI or IMiD based regimens. Maintenance treatment can further improve the clinical outcome in elderly MM patients in real-world setting.

HER3 in cancer: from the bench to the bedside

The HER3 protein, that belongs to the ErbB/HER receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) family, is expressed in several types of tumors. That fact, together with the role of HER3 in promoting cell proliferation, implicate that targeting HER3 may have therapeutic relevance. Furthermore, expression and activation of HER3 has been linked to resistance to drugs that target other HER receptors such as agents that act on EGFR or HER2. In addition, HER3 has been associated to resistance to some chemotherapeutic drugs. Because of those circumstances, efforts to develop and test agents targeting HER3 have been carried out. Two types of agents targeting HER3 have been developed. The most abundant are antibodies or engineered antibody derivatives that specifically recognize the extracellular region of HER3. In addition, the use of aptamers specifically interacting with HER3, vaccines or HER3-targeting siRNAs have also been developed. Here we discuss the state of the art of the preclinical and clinical development of drugs aimed at targeting HER3 with therapeutic purposes.

Prolonged hematological toxicity in patients receiving BCMA/CD19 CAR-T-cell therapy for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma

Although chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy has been indicated to be effective in treating relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (R/R MM), severe hematological toxicity (HT) remains an intractable issue. This study enrolled 54 patients with R/R MM following combined infusion of anti-CD19 and anti-BCMA CAR-T cells. The results showed that the rates of severe cytopenia were high, including severe neutropenia (28/54, 52%), severe anemia (15/54, 28%), and severe thrombocytopenia (18/54, 33%). Moreover, the incidence of prolonged HT (PHT) on Day 28 post-infusion was 52% (28/54), including 46% for severe neutropenia, 30% for severe anemia, and 31% for severe thrombocytopenia. Patients with PHT had a poorer median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) than patients without PHT (P=0.011; P=0.007). Furthermore, Cox regression analyses showed that PHT was an independent risk factor for PFS and OS. Univariate analyses showed that IFNγ (OR: 1.046; 95% CI: 1.002-1.093, P=0.042) and severe HT after lymphodepletion chemotherapy (OR: 0.082; 95% CI: 0.017-0.404; P=0.002) were independent risk factors for PHT. In conclusion, these results indicated that PHT was associated with poor outcomes following CAR-T-cell therapy in MM patients. Early detection and management of PHT would be beneficial for the prevention of life-threatening complications and improvement in the survival of patients after CAR-T-cell therapy.

Prognostic significance of CD56 antigen in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: A real-world retrospective study

The prognostic value of plasma cell CD56 expression of patients with multiple myeloma (MM) has been reported in many studies, but the results are controversial. This study aimed to examine the prognostic significance of CD56 in MM patients. Eighty seven patients with newly diagnosed MM were enrolled in this study, and their clinical characteristics, immunophenotypes, and cytogenetics were retrospectively analyzed to explore the prognostic significance of CD56 expression. Multiparameter flow cytometry was used to detect MM in bone marrow samples from all patients. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on whether they expressed CD56: CD56 + group and CD56 - group. After 4 cycles of chemotherapy, the overall response rate of the CD56 - patients was lower than that of the CD56 + patients (60.0% vs 81.1%, P = .036). Survival analysis showed that the median progression-free survival (PFS) was 10 months for the CD56 - group and 27 months for the CD56 + group (P = .007). The median overall survival (OS) of patients for the CD56 - group was 25 months versus not reached in the CD56 + group (P = .010). In addition, among the high-risk patients detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), the median PFS was 4 months for the CD56 - group and 16 months for the CD56 + group (P = .012). The median OS of the CD56 + group and CD56 - group was 36 months and 15 months, respectively, with statistically significant differences (P = .017). Our study confirmed that CD56 - patients with MM had a worse prognosis than that of CD56 + patients with MM. Among the patients with ≥ 2 high-risk cytogenetics, the existence of the CD56 negativity can further identify MM patients with poor PFS and OS.

Optimal timing of treatment at relapse after autologous stem cell transplantation in patients with multiple myeloma: a study of the Korean Multiple Myeloma Working Party (KMM-1909)

The effectiveness of early treatment for biochemical relapse of multiple myeloma (MM) is unclear. To clarify this issue, this retrospective study was performed to evaluate the survival outcomes of 315 patients with relapsed MM after upfront autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). Over a median follow-up of 66.6 months (range, 15.1-195.5 months), 48.2% of patients showed biochemical relapse, 41.3% showed clinical relapse, and 10.5% showed significant biochemical relapse. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were inferior for patients with clinical relapse compared to the other patients. Multivariate analysis showed that clinical relapse was an independent prognostic factor for OS. In patients with biochemical relapse, there was no significant difference in survival between patients treated while asymptomatic and those treated once clinical symptoms had appeared. Relapse type after upfront ASCT was a significant prognostic factor in patients with MM. In addition, no survival benefit of early treatment at biochemical relapse was observed, but a triplet regimen may be beneficial for MM patients with biochemical relapse.

Worldwide Productivity and Research Trend of Publications Concerning Cancer-Related Neuropathic Pain: A Bibliometric Study

Cancer-related neuropathic pain is a common adverse effect in the process of cancer development and treatment and has gradually attracted the attention of researchers. The purpose of this article is to systematically review the articles on cancer-related neuropathic pain published between 2012 and 2021 and visualize the data through CiteSpace and R software. The results show that in the past 10 years, a total of 5715 articles have been published, involving 118 categories, of which the most is Clinical Neurology, followed by Neurosciences, Pharmacology Pharmacy. The country with the most published articles is the United States, followed by China and Italy. A total of 22,228 authors were involved in the study of cancer-related neuropathic pain. These historical opinions about cancer-related neuropathic pain could be an important practical basis for further research into potential development trends.

Management of Multiple Myeloma in the Middle East: Unmet Needs, Challenges and Perspective

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a prevalent hematological malignancy. Resource-constrained settings such as the Middle East are particularly burdened by the increasing trends in MM morbidity and mortality in addition to challenges in the management of MM. It thus becomes necessary to identify and address debatable areas of current practice and gaps in the management of MM in the Middle East. With a special focus on the Lebanese situation, the first-line treatment of the very elderly (> 80 years old) is discussed, in addition to the impact of relapse type (biochemical or clinical relapse) on maintenance therapy, the choice of first relapse therapy in relation to maintenance therapy, and the role of MRD in the MM treatment landscape. The need for realistic management guidelines accounting for local resources and expertise, in addition to the reflection of drug accessibility and cost on clinical practice are recognized.

Treatment Options for Patients With Heavily Pretreated Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma

Despite the increasing number of treatment options available for multiple myeloma, relapse is still inevitable and there remains a critical unmet need for treatments for patients with late-stage, highly refractory disease. In this review, we discuss currently approved treatment options for heavily pretreated patients with relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma, with a focus on the optimal management of patients with MM refractory to lenalidomide, bortezomib, and in some cases, daratumumab or an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody. Data from recent clinical trials of immunomodulatory agents (pomalidomide), proteasome inhibitors (PIs; carfilzomib and ixazomib), monoclonal antibodies (elotuzumab, daratumumab, and isatuximab), and other novel therapies (including panobinostat-based therapy) are summarized. We also provide potential therapeutic strategies for patients according to different treatment histories, and include case studies to illustrate the practical use of various treatment options in a clinical setting. Regimens containing pomalidomide, elotuzumab, next-generation PIs, panobinostat, or selinexor may provide effective treatment options in patients with triple-refractory disease. The choice of agents used, and combinations thereof should be individualized as well as strategically planned from early- to late-stage relapse.

Daratumumab plus bortezomib or daratumumab plus lenalidomide as salvage therapy for patients with myeloma: initial follow-up of an Italian multicentre retrospective clinical experience by 'Rete Ematologica Pugliese'

We report herein a multicentre retrospective analysis of 192 consecutive patients with symptomatic refractory/relapsed multiple myeloma (RRMM) treated with daratumumab in combination with bortezomib or lenalidomide as salvage therapy at 9 haematological centres in Puglia. Choice of both regimens was based on previous treatment and/or physicians' preference. Considering the under-representation of older patients (very old patient ≥ 80 years) in clinical trials and the prognostic and predictive importance and value of frailty status, here, we further characterised the patient cohort by age. The overall response rate (ORR) was generally lower than what was previously reported in the CASTOR (ORR 72.6% vs 85%) and POLLUX (ORR 86.5% vs 93%) trials. The lower ORR in our analysis compared to the CASTOR and POLLUX trials could be related to a less selected population. Similarly, amongst very old patients, the ORR was encouraging: ORR to treatment with DVd (daratumumab + bortezomib + dexamethasone) was 66.7%, and ORR to treatment with DRd (daratumumab + lenalidomide + dexamethasone) was 92.3%. Median TTP (time to progression) was 10.8 months (1-year TTP: 44.7%; 2-year TTP: 25.3%) in the DVd group; median TTP was not reached in the DRd group (1-year TTP: 82.7%; 2-year TTP: 71.4%). Median OS (overall survival) was not reached either in the DRd group (1-year OS: 85.9%; 2-year OS: 73.7%) or the DVd group (1-year OS: 70.2%; 2-year OS: 58.9%).

Bendamustine in combination with pomalidomide and dexamethasone in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma: A phase II trial

Treatment of patients with resistant/refractory multiple myeloma (MM) is an unmet need. In this phase II study, we evaluated the role of bendamustine, pomalidomide and dexamethasone combination in this setting. Between February 2020 and December 2021, 28 patients were recruited. Patients received bendamustine 120 mg/m² day 1, pomalidomide 3 mg days 1-21, and dexamethasone 40 mg days 1, 8, 11, 22, regimen given for a maximum of six cycles. The median (range) age of the patients was 54 (30-76) years and 15 (53.6%) were males. Patients had received a median (range) of three (two-six) prior lines and 85.7% were refractory to both lenalidomide and bortezomib. The primary end-point was the overall response rate (ORR) defined as ≥partial response after at least three cycles. Secondary objectives were toxicity, progression-free survival (PFS), time to progression and overall survival (OS). An intent-to-treat analysis was done. An ORR of 57.6% was achieved. Patients with extramedullary myeloma had a better response rate. At a median follow-up of 8.6 months, the median PFS and OS were 6.2 and 9.7 months respectively. Toxicity was manageable; mainly haematological (neutropenia, 46.4%; anaemia, 42.8%; and thrombocytopenia, 7.1%). Bendamustine, pomalidomide and dexamethasone could be a novel combination for the heavily pretreated, lenalidomide-refractory myeloma population.

Treatment Regimens for Transplant-Ineligible Patients With Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma: A Systematic Literature Review and Network Meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Many treatment regimens have been evaluated in transplant-ineligible (TIE) patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of relevant therapies for the treatment of TIE patients with NDMM.

METHODS

Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) from large randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating different treatment options for TIE patients with NDMM were compared in a network meta-analysis (NMA). The NMA includes recent primary and long-term OS readouts from SWOG S0777, ENDURANCE, MAIA, and ALCYONE. Relevant trials were identified through a systematic literature review. Relative efficacy measures (i.e., hazard ratios [HRs] for PFS and OS) were extracted and synthesised in random-effects NMAs.

RESULTS

A total of 122 publications describing 45 unique RCTs was identified. Continuous lenalidomide/dexamethasone (Rd) was selected as the referent comparator. Daratumumab-containing treatments (daratumumab/lenalidomide/dexamethasone [D-Rd], daratumumab/bortezomib/melphalan/prednisone [D-VMP]) and bortezomib/lenalidomide/dexamethasone (VRd) had the highest probabilities of being more effective than Rd continuous for PFS (HR: D-Rd, 0.53; D-VMP, 0.57, VRd, 0.77) and OS (HR: D-Rd, 0.68; VRd, 0.77, D-VMP, 0.78). D-Rd had the highest chance of being ranked as the most effective treatment with respect to PFS and OS. Results using a smaller network focusing on only those regimens that are relevant in Europe were consistent with the primary analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

These comparative effectiveness data may help inform treatment selection in TIE patients with NDMM.

Current approaches to management of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma

Major developments in the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) over the past decade have led to a continued improvement in survival. Significant progress has been made with deeper and longer remissions seen with newer treatment approaches-both for induction as well as maintenance therapy. The treatment approach to MM is guided by several factors including patient age, frailty, comorbidities, eligibility for autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT), and risk stratification into standard-risk or high-risk MM. High-risk MM is defined by the presence of t(4;14), t(14;16), t(14;20), del (17p), TP53 mutation, or gain (1q). Transplant eligible patients should receive 4-6 cycles of induction followed by stem cell collection. Patients can then undergo ASCT, or continue induction therapy and shift to maintenance, delaying ASCT till first relapse. Transplant ineligible patients should receive induction therapy followed by maintenance. For induction therapy prior to ASCT, a proteasome inhibitor-IMiD combination remains standard with monoclonal antibody-based quadruplets preferred in high-risk patients. Among transplant ineligible patients, those with standard-risk MM should receive DRd continued until disease progression, while bortezomib containing regimens (VRd or VRd lite) can be considered for high-risk patients. Finally, standard-risk patients should receive lenalidomide maintenance after induction/ASCT, while proteasome inhibitor-IMiD combinations should be used for high-risk patients.

Correlation of Cytokine Release Syndrome With Prognosis After Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Therapy: Analysis of 54 Patients With Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma

Although chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy has proven to be effective in treating relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (R/R MM), the severity of cytokine release syndrome (CRS) can affect patient survival and the risk factors for CRS remain an intractable issue. We enrolled 54 patients with R/R MM following combined infusion of anti-CD19 and anti-B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) CAR-T cells. The results showed the overall response rate was 94% (51/54) after CAR-T cell infusion, with a 100% incidence of CRS, including 47 patients with grade 1-2 (mild) CRS and 7 patients with grade 3-5 (severe) CRS. In the mild CRS group, the median progression-free survival (PFS) was 18.2 months (95% CI, 6.5 to 30.1) and the median overall survival (OS) was not reached yet. In the severe CRS group, median PFS and median OS were 1.9 months (95% CI, 0.2 to 3.8). Further analysis demonstrated that severe CRS had a shorter median PFS and OS than mild CRS (p=0.029, p=0.020). Bone marrow tumor burden was found to be independently associated with CRS. The grade of CRS was positively correlated with six serum cytokines levels including G-CSF, IL-6, IL-8, IP-10, MIP-1a and RANTES. In conclusion, early detection and management of CRS are imperative for the prevention of life-threatening complications and improvement in the survival of patients of CAR-T cell therapy.

Clinical Trial Registration

www.chictr.org.cn, identifier ChiCTR-OIC-17011272.