Granulocyte Colony-stimulating Factor Schedule Research Articles

Model-Based Optimal AML Consolidation Treatment.

Neutropenia is an adverse event commonly arising during intensive chemotherapy of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). It is often associated with infectious complications. Mathematical modeling, simulation, and optimization of the treatment process would be a valuable tool to support clinical decision making, potentially resulting in less severe side effects and deeper remissions. However, until now, there has been no validated mathematical model available to simulate the effect of chemotherapy treatment on white blood cell (WBC) counts and leukemic cells simultaneously. We developed a population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) model combining a myelosuppression model considering endogenous granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), a PK model for cytarabine (Ara-C), a subcutaneous absorption model for exogenous G-CSF, and a two-compartment model for leukemic blasts. This model was fitted to data of 44 AML patients during consolidation therapy with a novel Ara-C plus G-CSF schedule from a phase II controlled clinical trial. Additionally, we were able to optimize treatment schedules with respect to disease progression, WBC nadirs, and the amount of Ara-C and G-CSF. The developed PK/PD model provided good prediction accuracies and an interpretation of the interaction between WBCs, G-CSF, and blasts. For 14 patients (those with available bone marrow blast counts), we achieved a median 4.2-fold higher WBC count at nadir, which is the most critical time during consolidation therapy. The simulation results showed that relative bone marrow blast counts remained below the clinically important threshold of 5%, with a median of 60% reduction in Ara-C. These in silico findings demonstrate the benefits of optimized treatment schedules for AML patients. Until 2017, no new drug had been approved for the treatment of AML, fostering the optimal use of currently available drugs.

Sustained Erythroid Response Associated With Red Cell Transfusion and Progressive Growth Factor Independence Is Feasible With Adjuvant Sertraline In Low-Risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome (LR-MDS)

BackgroundLR-MDS is a heterogeneous group of clonal marrow disorder associated with ineffective hematopoeisis and complex genomic etiology. For patients (pt) with refractory cytopenia phenotype (RC-P), transfusion and growth factor support, such as Erythropoietin Stimulating Agents (ESAs) and Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor (G-CSF), are treatment options. Response rates for ESA is about 30%, (and response potentiation can be achieved in about 35% of pt receiving concurrent G-CSF.However, ESA unresponsiveness is a common phenomenon and is associated with transfusion dependence, normal/high EPO levels, and high IPSS score. Therefore, novel therapies are greatly needed. Biologically, LR-MDS is linked to deregulation of apoptosis and cytokine signaling pathways. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) can induce normalization of deranged cytokines such as IL6 and TNF-α in clinical depression. In animal model of arthritis, sertraline abrogates manifestation of autoimmune arthritis by reducing TNF α. Our group recently showed that significant improvement in overall survival (OS) can be achieved in low-risk MDS patients treated with SSRIs, such as sertraline, which is independent of concurrent MDS directed therapy. (Li, et al. ASH 2012 abstract # 3818) Here, we report a case of sequential reversal of transfusion and growth factor dependence phenotype in a pt with refractory anemia multi-lineage dysplasia LR- MDS. MethodsA 72-year male with transfusion dependent refractory anemia (8 units RBC in 8 weeks) was evaluated in clinic. His bone marrow showed erythroid and megakaryocytic dysplasia consistent with RCMD by WHO 2008 classification. Cytogenetic study revealed 45;X-Y[4];46 XY[16]. R-IPSS=1.5 (Cytogenetic=0; blast [0%] =0; Hb=7g/dL=1.5; Platelets [135000] =0; ANC [1500] =0). EPO and ferritin levels were 449 IU/L and 1600 NG/ML, respectively. R-H-EPO was administered at 40000 IU subcutaneously (SQ) per week. In view of severe depression, pt initiated sertraline at 100 mg orally on day (D) 61 of treatment. Response after 12 weeks of ESA, sequential addition of G-CSF and sertraline, were assessed according to internal working group (IWG) 2006 criteria. ResultsAfter 3 months of standard weekly SQ ESA (D1-D92) (Fig.1), and given ESA refractoriness, G-CSF at 480 mcg SQ 5-times weekly was added (ESA + G-CSF schedule) (D92-D189).Transfusion independence was observed by D 161 of combined ESA+G-CSF(Fig.1). Progressive hemoglobin stabilization resulted in G-CSF dose reduction to twice a week from D189 –D 257 (Fig. 1). Sequential resolution of ESA dependence was observed from D257- D515. Over the treatment period, the absolute increase in Hb level was 4.2 g/dL from baseline. Restoration of ESA erythroid response was observed by D93-210 after G-CSF and sertraline addition. (Table. 1) Sustained and improved Hb levels were achieved after 200 days of G-CSF discontinuation and ESA dose de-escalation while on sertraline treatment. [Display omitted] ConclusionsReversal of transfusion dependence represents a critical step in treatment algorithm of LR-MDS pt presenting with refractory anemia. In this context, ferritin normalization has previously been recognized as independent prognostic factor for outcome in MDS. Our case suggests feasibility of restoration of ESA sensitivity with concurrent G-CSF+ sertraline, and evidence for sustained beneficial effect of sertraline while ESA de-escalation, which seems independent from G-CSF. The MDS disease modifying effect of sertraline in LR- MDS patient presenting with refractory anemia and experiencing ESA refractoriness should be evaluated in prospective trials. Disclosures:No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Pharmacokinetic and -dynamic modelling of G-CSF derivatives in humans

BackgroundThe human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) is routinely applied to support recovery of granulopoiesis during the course of cytotoxic chemotherapies. However, optimal use of the drug is largely unknown. We showed in the past that a biomathematical compartment model of human granulopoiesis can be used to make clinically relevant predictions regarding new, yet untested chemotherapy regimen. In the present paper, we aim to extend this model by a detailed pharmacokinetic and -dynamic modelling of two commonly used G-CSF derivatives Filgrastim and Pegfilgrastim.ResultsModel equations are based on our physiological understanding of the drugs which are delayed absorption of G-CSF when applied to the subcutaneous tissue, dose-dependent bioavailability, unspecific first order elimination, specific elimination in dependence on granulocyte counts and reversible protein binding. Pharmacokinetic differences between Filgrastim and Pegfilgrastim were modelled as different parameter sets. Our former cell-kinetic model of granulopoiesis was essentially preserved, except for a few additional assumptions and simplifications. We assumed a delayed action of G-CSF on the bone marrow, a delayed action of chemotherapy and differences between Filgrastim and Pegfilgrastim with respect to stimulation potency of the bone marrow. Additionally, we incorporated a model of combined action of Pegfilgrastim and Filgrastim or endogenous G-CSF which interact via concurrent receptor binding. Unknown pharmacokinetic or cell-kinetic parameters were determined by fitting the predictions of the model to available datasets of G-CSF applications, chemotherapy applications or combinations of it. Data were either extracted from the literature or were received from cooperating clinical study groups. Model predictions fitted well to both, datasets used for parameter estimation and validation scenarios as well. A unique set of parameters was identified which is valid for all scenarios considered. Differences in pharmacokinetic parameter estimates between Filgrastim and Pegfilgrastim were biologically plausible throughout.ConclusionWe conclude that we established a comprehensive biomathematical model to explain the dynamics of granulopoiesis under chemotherapy and applications of two different G-CSF derivatives. We aim to apply the model to a large variety of chemotherapy regimen in the future in order to optimize corresponding G-CSF schedules or to individualize G-CSF treatment according to the granulotoxic risk of a patient.

Personalising docetaxel and G-CSF schedules in cancer patients by a clinically validated computational model

Background:This study was aimed to develop a new method for personalising chemotherapeutic and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) combined schedules, and use it for suggesting efficacious chemotherapy with reduced neutropenia.Methods:Clinical data from 38 docetaxel (Doc)-treated metastatic breast cancer patients were employed for validating a new pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamics model for Doc, combined with a mathematical model for granulopoiesis. An optimisation procedure was constructed and used for selecting improved treatment schedules.Results:The combined model accurately predicted observed nadir timing (r=0.99), grade 3 or 4 neutropenia (86% success) and neutrophil counts over time in individual patients (r=0.63), and showed robustness to CYP3A-induced variability in Doc clearance. For average patients, the predicted optimal support for the standard chemotherapy regimen, Doc 100 μg m−2 tri-weekly, is G-CSF, 300 μg, Q1D × 3, starting day 7 post-Doc. This regimen largely moderates chemotherapy-induced neutrophil nadir and neutropenia duration. The more intensive Doc dose, 150 mg m−2, is optimally supported by the slightly less cost-effective G-CSF 300 μg, Q1D × 4, 5 days post-Doc. The latter regimen is optimal for borderline patients (2000 neutrophils per μl) under Doc, 100–150 mg m−2 tri-weekly.Conclusions:The new computational method can serve for tailoring efficacious cytotoxic and supportive treatments, minimising side effects to individual patients. Prospective clinical validation is warranted.

Intermittent granulocyte colony-stimulating factor maintains dose intensity after ABVD therapy complicated by neutropenia

Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor (G-CSF) is commonly used to maintain dose intensity in patients receiving ABVD chemotherapy (doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine and dacarbazine) for Hodgkin lymphoma. However, the need for growth factor support is unclear, with studies suggesting that dose intensity can be maintained without G-CSF. Moreover, G-CSF is expensive (pegfilgrastim: EUR 1540/cycle; 300 μg filgrastim for 7 days: EUR 700/cycle) and is associated with side effects including bone pain and increased risk of bleomycin lung toxicity. Intermittent G-CSF may be an effective compromise, given that the effect of G-CSF on granulocyte precursors in vitro persists for 4-5 days after administration. After promising results of a pilot study, this schedule has been used subsequently in the majority of our patients receiving G-CSF as secondary prophylaxis for ABVD complicated by neutropenia. Retrospective analysis of the incidence of febrile neutropenia and treatment delay in a variety of different G-CSF schedules used as secondary prophylaxis in patients receiving ABVD. 848 cycles in 85 consecutive patients were evaluated. Most patients (86%) received G-CSF, generally commenced prophylactically for neutropenia when cycle 1B was due. Intermittent G-CSF (typically given on days 4, 8 and 12) was used in 413 cycles compared with daily or pegylated G-CSF in 99 cycles. In patients receiving intermittent G-CSF, the median neutrophil count, across all cycles, was 7.3 × 10(9) /L (range: 1.4-47.1) when the next scheduled chemotherapy was due. There were two cases of febrile neutropenia (0.45%) and no treatment delays. One patient developed possible bleomycin toxicity. Intermittent G-CSF is effective in maintaining dose intensity in patients receiving ABVD.

Different Schedules of Granulocyte Growth Factor Support for Patients With Breast Cancer Receiving Adjuvant Dose-Dense Chemotherapy

This prospective, nonrandomized study evaluates 4 schedules of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) for patients with breast cancer receiving adjuvant dose-dense chemotherapy regarding febrile neutropenia, treatment delays, and costs. Two hundred and thirty-one patients were enrolled to receive adjuvant dose-dense chemotherapy with 4 G-CSF schedules: filgrastim (300 mcg) days 3 to 10 [n = 84 (36.4%) group A]; days 3 to 7 [n = 26 (11.3%) group B]; days 5, 7, 9, and 11 [n = 64 (27.7%) group C], or pegfilgrastim (6 mg) on day 2 [n=57 (24.6%) group D]. Thirteen patients were hospitalized due to 14 episodes of febrile neutropenia; 3 in group A, 3 in group B, 1 in group C, and 6 in group D. No statistically significant difference was observed among the 4 groups. Fewer febrile neutropenic events were observed in group C than in group D (P=0.041). No statistically significant differences were observed in treatment delays or other hematological toxicities. Average overall G-CSF cost per patient in groups A and D was $8500 versus $4400 in groups B and C. We found a trend in favor of the shorter G-CSF schedule. A larger, prospective randomized trial should be carried out to evaluate shorter versus standard filgrastim and pegfilgrastim schedules with regard to clinical outcomes, hematological and nonhematological toxicities, and impact in costs.

Can Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor Worsen Anemia?

Can Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor Worsen Anemia?

Does Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Worsen Anemia in Early Breast Cancer Patients Treated With Epirubicin and Cyclophosphamide?

We report on the effects of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) on hemoglobin (Hb) value in early breast cancer patients receiving high-dose epirubicin and cyclophosphamide (EC) adjuvant treatment. Five hundred and six stage I or stage II female breast cancer patients were treated with E 120 mg/m2 and C 600 mg/m2 with or without G-CSF and randomly assigned to receive in a factorial 2 x 2 design: EC; EC + lonidamine; EC + G-CSF; EC + lonidamine + G-CSF. Five consecutive G-CSF schedules tested 100 randomly assigned patients each: (1) 480 microg subcutaneously on days 8 to 14; (2) 480 microg on days 8, 10, 12, 14; (3) 300 microg on days 8 to 14; (4) 300 microg on days 8, 10, 12, and 14; and (5) 300 microg on days 8 and 12. The mean Hb level of 246 patients receiving EC plus G-CSF was compared with that of 240 patients receiving EC alone. The data presented are derived from an exploratory hypothesis-generating analysis. The EC dose intensity did not statistically differ between the G-CSF and the control arm. From the third cycle onward, the mean Hb value resulted significantly lower in G-CSF arm compared with control at each time point of each cycle (P < .0001). No statistically significant difference in the mean Hb level was observed between schedule 5 and control. Of interest, from the second course onward, the mean Hb level tended to be lower in patients receiving seven or four G-CSF injections compared with those patients who received only two injections. Our data suggest that a G-CSF dose-related effect may play a role in worsening anemia in patients receiving adjuvant EC.

Timely Withdrawal of G-CSF Reduces the Occurrence of Thrombocytopenia During Dose-dense Chemotherapy

Post chemotherapy Granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) reduces leucopenia, while G-CSF priming shortly before chemotherapy increases myelotoxicity. We performed a trial with a two-schedule crossover design to determine the optimal G-CSF schedule for densified 2-weekly chemotherapy. During 2-weekly chemotherapy days 1 and 2, G-CSF was given on days 3-10, with a G-CSF-free interval before the next chemotherapy cycle of 5 days, or on days 3-13, with a G-CSF-free interval of 2 days. In schedule A, cycle II was preceded by a 5 days, cycle III and IV by a 2 days and cycle V by a 5 days G-CSF free interval. In schedule B, this was 2, 5, 5, and 2 days, respectively. Intra-patient comparison for cycles II versus III and cycles IV versus V showed that platelet (PLT) nadir count was significantly lower for cycles preceded by a 2-days compared to a 5-days G-CSF free interval: mean difference 45.7 x 10(9)/l (95% CI 33.2-58.2, p = 0.0001). Neutrophil count did not differ significantly (p = 0.85). Timely withdrawal of G-CSF in dose-dense chemotherapy reduces chemotherapy-related thrombocytopenia. Leucopenia was not aggravated, reflecting a protective effect of post-chemotherapy G-CSF.

T(4;11) (q21;q23) in acute myeloid leukemia-M0 following treatment [EW92 Protocol] for Ewing's sarcoma

We report on a 7-year-old girl with Ewing's Sarcoma (ES) who developed a poorly differentiated acute myeloid leukemia (AML-M0) 20 months after beginning the EW92 protocol for the treatment of the primary tumor. She received a total dose of 1500 mg of etoposide, a tumor cumulative radiation dose of 35Gy and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) was as predicted in the protocol regimen. At onset of secondary malignancy her laboratorial analysis revealed immature blast cells characterized by CD34+/CD33-/a-MPO+ and a t(4;11)(q21;q23) abnormality. This serious complication of ES treatment, which associates etoposide, irradiation and G-CSF schedule, should be weighed against its therapeutic benefits.