Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma Patients Research Articles

Different Patient Subgroup Different Maintenance, Proteasome Inhibitors or Immunomodulators Maintenance for Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma: A 7-Year Single-Center Date in China.

IntroductionWe analyzed different patient subgroups to determine optimal maintenance therapy in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) patients.MethodsA total of 226 NDMM patients in our center were included in the study. The characteristics, survival, and adverse reactions were compared among patients who received maintenance therapy or not, and patients who received proteasome inhibitors (PIs) or immunomodulators (IMiDs) maintenance. The survival of different maintenance durations of bortezomib-based regimens was also analyzed.ResultsThe maintenance therapy not only upgraded more patient responses (34.3 vs 13.3%, P = 0.006), but also significantly prolonged their progression-free survival (PFS) (median PFS: 41.1 vs 10.5 months, P < 0.001) and overall survival (OS) (median OS: not reached vs 38.6 months, P < 0.001). Compared with IMiDs, the PFS (median PFS: 43.7 vs 38.5 months, P = 0.034) and OS (median OS: not reached vs 78.5 months, P = 0.041) were both enhanced by PIs maintenance. Patients younger than 65 years who received PIs had a significantly prolonged OS (P = 0.032). Patients achieving only a partial response (PR) after induction and consolidation therapy had significantly longer PFS and OS after PIs maintenance compared to IMiDs (P = 0.007, 0.002). High-risk patients (ISS 2–3, DS 2–3, and RISS 2–3) given PIs maintenance benefit from a prolonged PFS (P = 0.002, 0.02, 0.06) and OS (P = 0.059, 0.047, 0.044, respectively) compared with IMiDs therapy. OS was significantly prolonged in patients who received ≥ 12 months of bortezomib-based maintenance therapy compared to those who were treated for < 12 months (P < 0.001), but no difference was observed in OS between patients who received 12 to 24 or ≥ 24 months of bortezomib-based maintenance therapy (P = 0.292).ConclusionPIs maintenance was superior to IMiDs in overall PFS and OS. The beneficial effect was most evident in patients achieving PR after induction and consolidation therapy, and in high-risk patients. Moreover, younger patients also benefited from PIs maintenance with an increased OS. A bortezomib-based maintenance therapy duration of 12 to 24 months after induction and consolidation therapy produced satisfactory OS.

Real-world analysis of patient characteristics, treatment outcomes, and healthcare resource utilization across Europe in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma ineligible for stem cell transplantation who received lenalidomide- or bortezomib-based regimens

We aimed to compare real-world outcomes, resource use, and costs for patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) treated with continuous first-line (1 L) lenalidomide or fixed bortezomib in Europe. We performed a multicenter, retrospective, observational chart review of transplant-ineligible NDMM patients across 7 countries. Of 453 eligible patients, 220 received 1 L lenalidomide-based regimens; 105 (47.7%) received second-line (2 L) treatment, of which 50 (47.6%) received 2 L bortezomib. 233 patients received 1 L bortezomib-based regimens; 142 (60.9%) had 2 L treatment, of which 104 (73.2%) received 2 L lenalidomide. Patients receiving 1 L lenalidomide-based regimens had better progression-free survival than patients receiving 1 L bortezomib-based regimens (p = .002) and a longer time to 2 L or third-line treatment (both p < .05). Total treatment-associated monthly costs for patients receiving 1 L lenalidomide-based regimens (n = 171, €2,268.55) were significantly greater than for 1 L bortezomib-based regimens (n = 188, €1,724.77) (p < .001) over the follow-up period (median, 38.7 months).

Impact of stratifying levels of serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) at diagnosis on the overall survival (OS) in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM).

e20016 Background: An elevated serum LDH level is an adverse prognostic factor in NDMM. However, this category includes quantitative serum LDH levels that range from just over the upper limit of normal (ULN) to levels that may be 2 or more-fold higher than the ULN. This binary classification of serum LDH level of “normal versus elevated” fails to discriminate between the different disease biology that exists among NDMM patients with elevated serum LDH levels. Thus, we attempted to further stratify NDMM patients by the level of their serum LDH and determine its impact on OS. Methods: The cohort included patients diagnosed with NDMM from the Mayo Clinic, Rochester from 2003 - 2017 who were treated with novel agent induction therapy and had serum LDH levels measured at the time of diagnosis. The serum LDH levels were stratified into three levels: Normal (LDH &lt; 222 U/L), Elevated (LDH 223-444 U/L), and Very Elevated (LDH &gt;444 U/L or &gt;2x upper limit of normal). Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and compared via the log-rank method. Results: The cohort consists of 1,196 NDMM patients with a median age of 65 (22 – 95). R-ISS classification and cytogenetic risk were available for 968 and 970 patients respectively. The median serum LDH level was (162 U/L (3- 1260)) and an elevated LDH was present in 199 patients (17%). The median OS for patients with normal (N = 997; 83%), elevated (N = 170; 13%) and very elevated (N = 29; 3%) LDH levels were 76 months, 57 months and 23 months respectively (P &lt; 0.001). The impact of these different levels of LDH on OS by R-ISS stage and cytogenetic risk is shown in the Table. Conclusions: A very small subset of NDMM patients has very elevated LDH levels that confer an exceptionally poor OS irrespective of R-ISS stage and cytogenetic risk. Future studies elucidating their disease biology responsible for such poor OS outcomes are warranted.[Table: see text]

Depth of response and minimal residual disease status in ultra high-risk multiple myeloma and plasma cell leukemia treated with daratumumab, bortezomib, lenalidomide, cyclophosphamide and dexamethasone (Dara-CVRd): Results of the UK optimum/MUKnine trial.

8001 Background: Patients with ultra high-risk (UHiR) newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) and patients with plasma cell leukemia (PCL) continue to have dismal outcomes and are underrepresented in clinical trials. Recently, improved responses with anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody combination therapy have been reported for NDMM patients. We report here outcomes for NDMM UHiR and PCL patients treated in the OPTIMUM/MUKnine (NCT03188172) trial with daratumumab, cyclophosphamide, bortezomib, lenalidomide, dexamethasone (Dara-CVRd) induction, augmented high-dose melphalan (HDMEL) and ASCT. With final analysis follow-up surpassed in Feb 2021, we report here early protocol defined endpoints from induction to day 100 post ASCT. Methods: Between Sep 2017 and Jul 2019, 107 patients with UHiR NDMM by central trial genetic (≥2 high risk lesions: t(4;14), t(14;16), t(14;20), gain(1q), del(1p), del(17p)) or gene expression SKY92 (SkylineDx) profiling, or with PCL (circulating plasmablasts &gt; 20%) were included in OPTIMUM across 39 UK hospitals. Patients received up to 6 cycles of Dara-CVRd induction, HDMEL and ASCT augmented with bortezomib, followed by Dara-VR(d) consolidation for 18 cycles and Dara-R maintenance. Primary trial endpoints are minimal residual disease (MRD) status post ASCT and progression-free survival. Secondary endpoints include response, safety and quality of life. Data is complete but subject to further data cleaning prior to conference. Results: Median follow-up for the 107 patients in the safety population was 22.2 months (95% CI: 20.6 – 23.9). Two patients died during induction due to infection. Bone marrow aspirates suitable for MRD assessment by flow cytometry (10-5 sensitivity) were available for 81% of patients at end of induction and 78% at D100 post ASCT. Responses in the intention to treat population at end of induction were 94% ORR with 22% CR, 58% VGPR, 15% PR, 1% PD, 5% timepoint not reached (TNR; withdrew, became ineligible or died) and at D100 post ASCT 83% ORR with 47% CR, 32% VGPR, 5% PR, 7% PD, 10% TNR. MRD status was 41% MRDneg, 40% MRDpos and 19% not evaluable post induction and 64% MRDneg, 14% MRDpos and 22% not evaluable at D100 post ASCT. Responses at D100 post ASCT were lower in PCL with 22% CR, 22% VGPR, 22% PR, 22% PD, 12% TNR. Most frequent grade 3/4 AEs during induction were neutropenia (21%), thrombocytopenia (12%) and infection (12%). Grade 3 neuropathy rate was 3.7%. Conclusions: This is to our knowledge the first report on a trial for UHiR NDMM and PCL investigating Dara-CVRd induction and augmented ASCT. Response rates were high in this difficult-to-treat patient population, with toxicity comparable to other induction regimens. However, some early progressions highlight the need for innovative approaches to UHiR NDMM. Clinical trial information: NCT03188172.

Trajectory of Symptoms in Patients Undergoing Autologous Stem Cell Transplant for Multiple Myeloma: A Population-Based Cohort Study of Patient-Reported Outcomes

BackgroundAutologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) is an established treatment for patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). Understanding the symptom burden associated with ASCT may be an important consideration for patients with NDMM when selecting treatment options. Patients and MethodsWe conducted a population-based study of patients who underwent an ASCT for NDMM in Ontario, Canada, between 2007 and 2018. The patient-reported outcome, Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) score, which captures nine common cancer-associated symptoms and is routinely collected at all outpatient visits, was linked to provincial administrative healthcare data. The monthly prevalence of moderate or severe symptoms (ESAS ≥ 4) each month in the first year following ASCT was analyzed. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with moderate to severe symptoms. ResultsIn our final cohort of 1969 patients who had undergone an ASCT, a total of 12,820 unique assessments were captured. Symptom burden was highest at 1 month post-ASCT, with moderate to severe tiredness and impaired well-being being the two most common symptoms. Symptom burden substantially improved by 3 months post-ASCT, reaching a new baseline for the year following. On multivariable analysis, female sex, increased co-morbidities, earlier year of diagnosis, and myeloma-related end-organ damage (specifically, bone and kidney disease) were associated with a higher odds of reporting moderate to severe symptoms. ConclusionIn this large population-based study using patient-reported outcomes, there was a substantial burden of symptoms noted among NDMM patients 1 month post-ASCT, which improved over time. Tailored supportive care interventions should focus on strategies to optimize management of identified symptoms.

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells inhibit CD8+ T cell immune responses via PD-1/PD-L1 pathway in multiple myeloma.

High expression of the inhibitory receptor programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) on tumor cells and tumor stromal cells have been found to play a key role in tumor immune evasion in several human malignancies. However, the expression of PD-L1 on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and whether the programmed cell death 1 (PD-1)/PD-L1 signal pathway is involved in the BMSCs versus T cell immune response in multiple myeloma (MM) remains poorly defined. In this study, we explored the expression of PD-L1 on BMSCs from newly diagnosed MM (NDMM) patients and the role of PD-1/PD-L1 pathway in BMSC-mediated regulation of CD8+ T cells. The data showed that the expression of PD-L1 on BMSCs in NDMM patients was significantly increased compared to that in normal controls (NC) (18·81±1·61 versus 2·78±0·70%; P<0·001). Furthermore, the PD-1 expression on CD8+ T cells with NDMM patients was significantly higher than that in normal controls (43·22±2·98 versus 20·71±1·08%; P<0·001). However, there was no significant difference in PD-1 expression of CD4+ T cells and natural killer (NK) cells between the NDMM and NC groups. Additionally, the co-culture assays revealed that BMSCs significantly suppressed CD8+ T cell function. However, the PD-L1 inhibitor effectively reversed BMSC-mediated suppression in CD8+ T cells. We also found that the combination of PD-L1 inhibitor and pomalidomide can further enhance the killing effect of CD8+ T cells on MM cells. In summary, our findings demonstrated that BMSCs in patients with MM may induce apoptosis of CD8+ T cells through the PD-1/PD-L1 axis and inhibit the release of perforin and granzyme B from CD8+ T cells to promote the immune escape of MM.

Analysis of the clinical characteristics and prognosis of 36 cases of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients with bone marrow monoclonal plasma cell ratio of less than 10

目的提高对骨髓单克隆浆细胞比例小于10％的新诊断多发性骨髓瘤（NDMM）患者的认识。方法回顾性总结2009年1月至2017年12月北京协和医院36例骨髓浆细胞比例小于10％的NDMM患者的临床特点、实验室检查、治疗反应和预后情况，选择同期诊断的72例骨髓浆细胞比例≥10％的NDMM患者作为对照组，两组患者年龄和性别匹配。结果①在818例NDMM患者中，骨髓浆细胞比例小于10％的患者36例（4.4％），其中国际分期系统（ISS）Ⅲ期11例（30.6％），显著低于对照组患者［45例（62.5％）］（P＝0.002）。与对照组相比，骨髓浆细胞比例小于10％的患者合并髓外病变比例更高（33.3％对5.6％，P<0.001），血清M蛋白中位值更低［1.04（0～50.10）g/L对4.50（0～63.10）g/L，P＝0.016］，24 h尿轻链定量中位值更低（510 mg对2800 mg，P＝0.023）。②骨髓浆细胞比例小于10％患者与对照组患者一线治疗后中位无进展生存（PFS）时间分别为26.4个月和19.9个月（HR＝1.703，95％CI 0.167～0.233，P＝0.002），总生存（OS）时间分别为65.8个月和46.2个月（HR＝2.626，95％CI 0.439～0.541，P＝0.058）。③按照M蛋白水平将研究组分为低肿瘤负荷组和高肿瘤负荷组，中位OS时间分别为66.4个月和24.0个月（HR＝2.349，95％CI 0.603～0.696，P＝0.046），中位PFS时间分别为33.1个月和15.5个月（HR＝1.806，95％CI 0.121～0.399，P＝0.077）。硼替佐米治疗对患者的生存结局无影响。结论骨髓浆细胞比例小于10％的NDMM患者疾病分期较早，肿瘤负荷较低，尽管合并髓外病变比例更高，一线疗效以及总体预后优于骨髓浆细胞比例≥10％的患者。

Oral ixazomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone for transplant-ineligible patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma

AbstractContinuous lenalidomide-dexamethasone (Rd)-based regimens are among the standards of care in transplant-ineligible newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) patients. The oral proteasome inhibitor ixazomib is suitable for continuous dosing, with predictable, manageable toxicities. In the double-blind, placebo-controlled TOURMALINE-MM2 trial, transplant-ineligible NDMM patients were randomized to ixazomib 4 mg (n = 351) or placebo (n = 354) plus Rd. After 18 cycles, dexamethasone was discontinued and treatment was continued using reduced-dose ixazomib (3 mg) and lenalidomide (10 mg) until progression/toxicity. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). Median PFS was 35.3 vs 21.8 months with ixazomib-Rd vs placebo-Rd, respectively (hazard ratio [HR], 0.830; 95% confidence interval, 0.676-1.018; P = .073; median follow-up, 53.3 and 55.8 months). Complete (26% vs 14%; odds ratio [OR], 2.10; P < .001) and ≥ very good partial response (63% vs 48%; OR, 1.87; P < .001) rates were higher with ixazomib-Rd vs placebo-Rd. In a prespecified high-risk cytogenetics subgroup, median PFS was 23.8 vs 18.0 months (HR, 0.690; P = .019). Overall, treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were mostly grade 1/2. With ixazomib-Rd vs placebo-Rd, 88% vs 81% of patients experienced grade ≥3 TEAEs, 66% vs 62% serious TEAEs, and 35% vs 27% TEAEs resulting in regimen discontinuation; 8% vs 6% died on study. Addition of ixazomib to Rd was tolerable with no new safety signals and led to a clinically meaningful PFS benefit of 13.5 months. Ixazomib-Rd is a feasible option for certain patients who can benefit from an all-oral triplet combination. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT01850524.

Pegylated Liposomal Doxorubicin in Vindesine-Based and Bortezomib-Based Regimens for Patients With Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma: A Retrospective Study of Efficacy and Safety

PurposeAlthough pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) has been approved in combination with bortezomib for relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (MM), the antitumor efficacy and tolerability of PLD in different regimens for patients with newly diagnosed MM (NDMM) have not been fully defined.MethodsA total of 249 NDMM patients diagnosed between January 2008 and October 2019 were included in this retrospective study. Among them, 112 patients received vindesine-based chemotherapy (35 vDD and 77 vAD) and 137 received bortezomib-based chemotherapy (58 VDD and 79 VD).ResultsIn bortezomib-containing regimens, the complete response rate (48.3 vs. 30.4%, p = 0.033) and very good partial response or better rate (74.1 vs. 57.0%, p = 0.038) of VDD were significantly higher than those of VD subgroup. While no superior survival was found between VDD and VD subgroup. In vindesine-containing regimens, no statistical significance was identified between vDD and vAD in terms of response rate and survival. The occurrence rates of all cardiac AEs were similar between VDD and VD.ConclusionsThe vDD regimen was similar with vAD in the aspect of response rate, survival, and toxicity in NDMM patients. The addition of PLD to VD brought deeper response without increased toxicity, while no superior survival was found.

Monocyte Subsets and Serum Inflammatory and Bone-Associated Markers in Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance and Multiple Myeloma.

Simple SummaryWe investigated the distribution of different subsets of monocytes (Mo) in blood and bone marrow (BM) of newly-diagnosed untreated monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), smoldering (SMM) and active multiple myeloma (MM), and its relationship with immune/bone serum-marker profiles. Our results showed decreased production of BM Mo with decreased counts of classical Mo (cMo) in BM and blood of SMM and MM, but not MGUS. Conversely, intermediate and non-classical Mo were significantly increased in MGUS, SMM and MM BM. In parallel, increased levels of interleukin (IL)1β were observed in a fraction of MGUS and SMM, while increased serum IL8 was characteristic of SMM and MM, and higher serum IL6, RANKL and bone alkaline phosphatase concentrations, together with decreased counts of FcεRI+cMo, were restricted to MM presenting with bone lesions. These results provide new insights in the pathogenesis of plasma cell neoplasms and the potential role of FcεRI+cMo in normal bone homeostasis.Background. Monocyte/macrophages have been shown to be altered in monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), smoldering (SMM) and active multiple myeloma (MM), with an impact on the disruption of the homeostasis of the normal bone marrow (BM) microenvironment. Methods: We investigated the distribution of different subsets of monocytes (Mo) in blood and BM of newly-diagnosed untreated MGUS (n = 23), SMM (n = 14) and MM (n = 99) patients vs. healthy donors (HD; n = 107), in parallel to a large panel of cytokines and bone-associated serum biomarkers. Results: Our results showed normal production of monocyte precursors and classical Mo (cMo) in MGUS, while decreased in SMM and MM (p ≤ 0.02), in association with lower blood counts of recently-produced CD62L+ cMo in SMM (p = 0.004) and of all subsets of (CD62L+, CD62L− and FcεRI+) cMo in MM (p ≤ 0.02). In contrast, intermediate and end-stage non-classical Mo were increased in BM of MGUS (p ≤ 0.03), SMM (p ≤ 0.03) and MM (p ≤ 0.002), while normal (MGUS and SMM) or decreased (MM; p = 0.01) in blood. In parallel, increased serum levels of interleukin (IL)1β were observed in MGUS (p = 0.007) and SMM (p = 0.01), higher concentrations of serum IL8 were found in SMM (p = 0.01) and MM (p = 0.002), and higher serum IL6 (p = 0.002), RANKL (p = 0.01) and bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP) levels (p = 0.01) with decreased counts of FcεRI+ cMo, were restricted to MM presenting with osteolytic lesions. This translated into three distinct immune/bone profiles: (1) normal (typical of HD and most MGUS cases); (2) senescent-like (increased IL1β and/or IL8, found in a minority of MGUS, most SMM and few MM cases with no bone lesions); and (3) pro-inflammatory-high serum IL6, RANKL and BALP with significantly (p = 0.01) decreased blood counts of immunomodulatory FcεRI+ cMo-, typical of MM presenting with bone lesions. Conclusions: These results provide new insight into the pathogenesis of plasma cell neoplasms and the potential role of FcεRI+ cMo in normal bone homeostasis.

Circulating Plasma Cells as a Biomarker to Predict Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma Prognosis: Developing Nomogram Prognostic Models.

Background: To investigate the prognostic value of circulating plasma cells (CPC) and establish novel nomograms to predict individual progression-free survival (PFS) as well as overall survival (OS) of patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM).Methods: One hundred ninetyone NDMM patients in Wuhan Union Hospital from 2017.10 to 2020.8 were included in the study. The entire cohort was randomly divided into a training (n = 130) and a validation cohort (n = 61). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed on the training cohort to establish nomograms for the prediction of survival outcomes, and the nomograms were validated by calibration curves.Results: When the cut-off value was 0.038%, CPC could well distinguish patients with higher tumor burden and lower response rates (P < 0.05), and could be used as an independent predictor of PFS and OS. Nomograms predicting PFS and OS were developed according to CPC, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatinine. The C-index and the area under receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC) of the nomograms showed excellent individually predictive effects in training cohort, validation cohort or entire cohort. Patients with total points of the nomograms ≤ 60.7 for PFS and 75.8 for OS could be defined as low-risk group and the remaining as high-risk group. The 2-year PFS and OS rates of patients in low-risk group was significantly higher than those in high-risk group (p < 0.001).Conclusions: CPC is an independent prognostic factor for NDMM patients. The proposed nomograms could provide individualized PFS and OS prediction and risk stratification.

The status of jaw lesions and medication-related osteonecrosis of jaw in patients with multiple myeloma

Myeloma jaw lesions are not uncommon. The study aimed to investigate the status of jaw lesions and medication-related osteonecrosis of jaw (MRONJ) in multiple myeloma (MM) patients. One hundred and twenty-two consecutive newly-diagnosed MM patients seeking dental care at a hospital of southern Taiwan was examined according to jaw lesions with complete follow-up data. Median age of the patients was 67.8 years, and 88.5% of patients were of DS stage III and 41.0% were of ISS stage III at diagnosis. Median survival was 37.9 months for 43 (35.2%) patients with jaw lesions and 57.4 months for 79 patients without jaw lesions. 1-year, 5-year and >7-year overall survival rates for patients with jaw lesions versus patients without jaw lesions were 94.9%, 67.2%, 56.7% vs 83.7%, 51.8%, 26.8% respectively. Patients with jaw lesions had the worse survival (P=0.03). Neither age nor stage affected survival. Jaw lesions involved the mandible more often than the maxilla and stopped progressing during remission, but did not repair. Jaw lesions were the first evidence or recurrent sign of MM in six (4.9%) patients. Long-term monthly antiresorptive therapy changed the radiographic patterns of jawbones and induced MRONJ developing in 16.7% (8/48) of patients. Five (62.5%) MRONJ sites spontaneously occurred without local risk factors. Nearly one-third of MM patients develop osteolytic jaw lesions that seem to be associated with poorer survival. Jaw lesion is an independent prognostic predictor of survival in myeloma. Antiresorptive drugs at less frequent dosing regimen are crucial to minimize spontaneous MRONJ.

Outcomes with different administration schedules of bortezomib in bortezomib, lenalidomide and dexamethasone (VRd) as first‐line therapy in multiple myeloma

Induction therapy for multiple myeloma with bortezomib (Velcade), lenalidomide (Revlimid), and dexamethasone (d) (VRd) was traditionally administered as bortezomib given twice weekly on a 3 week cycle. A modified schedule of weekly bortezomib has been adopted over time to decrease treatment burden for patients and reduce treatment-emergent neuropathy. This study evaluates the response rates and outcomes with different schedules of bortezomib in VRd administered for first-line treatment for patients with newly diagnosed MM (NDMM). We retrospectively analyzed patients treated with upfront VRd from June 30th 2008 to December 31st 2018, for variations of bortezomib administration. Five hundred and fifty-five (555) NDMM patients met inclusion criteria; median age 63 years and 61% men. Bortezomib was administered twice weekly every 21 days in 43%, once weekly every 21 days in 41% and once weekly every 28 days in 16%. Though peripheral sensory neuropathy was more frequent with twice weekly dosing (P = .002), this group achieved shorter time to best response (P = .01). Weekly every 21-day treatment saw higher VGPR or better rates (P = .02). However, with median follow up time of 37 months (IQR 22-56), we found no difference in PFS or OS among the groups. While small differences in response rates were found among the varying administration schedules of bortezomib administration, there was no significant effect on PFS or OS. Given that VRd remains a first line standard of care option for newly diagnosed MM, in the absence of a large trial comparing bortezomib dosing schedule modifications, these results are helpful in supporting current practices of once weekly administration.

A phase 1b study of once‐weekly carfilzomib combined with lenalidomide and dexamethasone in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma

Twice‐weekly carfilzomib with lenalidomide‐dexamethasone (Rd) is an effective regimen for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). Here we evaluated once‐weekly carfilzomib with Rd (once‐weekly KRd) in NDMM patients. The NDMM patients were enrolled regardless of transplant eligibility. Patients received carfilzomib on days 1, 8, and 15; lenalidomide 25 mg on days 1‐21; and dexamethasone 40 mg on carfilzomib days (also day 22 for cycles 1‐8) for ≤18, 28‐day cycles. Enrollment initiated in a carfilzomib 20/70 mg/m2 (20 mg/m2 on cycle one, day 1; 70 mg/m2 thereafter) NDMM dose‐expansion arm, which was suspended because of serious adverse events. After evaluation of dose‐limiting toxicities in a two‐step‐up dose‐evaluation cohort, an NDMM dose‐expansion arm (carfilzomib 20/56 mg/m2) was opened. Fifty‐one NDMM patients were enrolled in dose‐finding and dose‐expansion cohorts. Results are presented for the carfilzomib 56 mg/m2 NDMM dose‐expansion arm (n = 33). The grade ≥ 3 treatment‐emergent AE (TEAE) rate was 63.6%. Twenty‐five patients underwent stem cell collection; 18 proceeded to auto stem cell transplant, and five resumed KRd on study after autoSCT. The overall response rate (ORR) based on best overall response by cycle four was 97.0% (≥very good partial response [VGPR], 69.7%) in the NDMM 20/56 mg/m2 cohort. In patients who did not receive autoSCT (n = 15), the median number of cycles was 16.0; ORR was 93.3% (≥VGPR, 80.0%). At a median follow‐up of 8.1 months, median progression‐free survival was not reached. Once‐weekly KRd (carfilzomib 56 mg/m2) had a favorable safety profile and promising activity in NDMM, supporting the use of this regimen in this setting.

Impact of Socioeconomic Characteristics and Comorbidities on Therapy Initiation and Outcomes of Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma: Real-World Data From a Resource-Constrained Setting

BackgroundOutcomes of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) in developing regions have not paralleled those in developed settings. Economic disadvantage, comorbidities, and aggressive disease behavior play competing roles on defining outcomes. Our aim was to analyze the impact of socioeconomic characteristics and comorbidities on therapy initiation, drug selection, and survival outcomes of NDMM in a resource-constrained setting. Patients and MethodsThis retrospective single-center cohort included ≥ 18-year-old NDMM patients from January 2006 to December 2018. ResultsA total of 245 patients were included with a median age of 62 years, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≤ 2 in 70.2%, International Staging System score ≥ 2 in 89.4%, and high-risk disease in 31.6%. Comorbidities were reported in 69.4%, and Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) was ≥ 2 in 64.1%. A total of 87.4% (n = 214) received thalidomide-, alkylating-, and bortezomib-based induction in 67.8%, 18.2%, and 13.1%. Patient-related factors including performance status, comorbidities, and CCI, but not myeloma-related factors, were associated with a decreased likelihood of initiating induction therapy. On multivariate analysis, CCI ≥ 2 remained statistically significant (odds ratio, 5.81; P = .005). Overall survival was 44 months. Although both patient- and myeloma-related factors were associated with a decreased overall survival, only International Staging System score > 2 (hazard ratio, 3.53; P = .004) and induction without bortezomib-based regimens (hazard ratio, 4.45; P < .001) were statistically significant on multivariate analysis. ConclusionMyeloma- and treatment-related factors are the main determinants of survival in NDMM induction-eligible patients. Patient-related factors play a pivotal role determining access to therapy and survival outcomes. Comorbidity index and performance status were determinant on defining therapy initiation in this real-world population, which emphasizes the need to improve health baseline conditions in resource-constrained settings.

Cytogenetic abnormalities and morphological changes of bone marrow in multiple myeloma: a pathological analysis of 151 cases

Objective: To investigate the relationship between six common cytogenetic abnormalities and bone marrow pathomorphology in multiple myeloma (MM). Methods: Bone marrow biopsy was performed on 151 newly-diagnosed MM patients. Meanwhile, myeloma cells were enriched by CD138 immunomagnetic beads, and then lq+, 13q-, 17p-, t(4;14), t (11;14), t (14;16) and other common genetic abnormalities were detected using interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The relationship between different genetic abnormalities and biopsy morphology was compared. Results: Of the 151 patients, 15 had extramedullary infiltration (9.9%). The rate of cytogenetic abnormalities was 76.2% (115/151), of which 1q+ accounted for 49.7% (75/151), 13q-39.1% (59/151), 17p-8.6% (13/151), t(4;14) 21.2% (32/151), t(11;14) 19.2% (29/151), and t(14;16) 2.0% (3/151). The proliferation patterns of MM plasma cells were nodular (48.3%, 73/151), interstitial (33.8%, 51/151) and diffuse (17.9%, 27/151). The morphology of plasma cells was mainly mature type (58.3%, 88/151), followed by juvenile type (20.5%, 31/151), intermediate type (15.9%, 24/151) and plasmacyte type (5.3%, 8/151). According to the mSMART risk stratification system, the proliferation pattern of myeloma cells in the high-risk group was mainly diffuse type, and the morphology was mainly immature and plasmacyte type. In the middle-risk group, mature type myeloma cells were mainly nodular proliferating. In the low-risk and negative group, mature type myeloma cells were mainly interstitial proliferating. There was no difference in the probability of different proliferation modes of intermediate type plasma cells in each group. Conclusions: The proliferation pattern and morphology of plasma cells in bone marrow biopsy combined with cytogenetic markers can more accurately predict the severity and prognosis of MM.

Comparing the Efficacy of Cyclophosphamide Versus Lenalidomide in Combination with Bortezomib for Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma Treatment: A Systematic Review

Introduction: According to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) 2019 guidelines on multiple myeloma (MM) treatment, three-drug regimens using bortezomib (V) and dexamethasone (d) in combination with either lenalidomide (R), (VRd) or Cyclophosphamide (C) combination (VCd) are standard first-line treatment options in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM), regardless of transplant eligibility. However, the two combinations have not been studied head-to-head. This systemic review aims to compare the efficacy and safety outcomes of VCd versus VRd in NDMM patients. Methods: We performed a comprehensive literature search on PubMed, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov on July 27, 2020. We used the MeSH terms for 'multiple myeloma', 'cyclophosphamide', 'bortezomib', 'dexamethasone', 'lenalidomide', and their associated keywords. The search yielded 410 articles. Screening and data extraction were done according to PRISMA guidelines. After excluding case reports, case series, observational studies, review articles, meta-analysis, and retrospective studies, 11 phase II and III clinical trials (n=1088) were included of which three assessed VCd and eight assessed VRd in NDMM. Results: There was no trial on the direct comparison of VCd with VRd. Total 111 NDMM patients were evaluable who received VCd (Table 1). Moreover, total 977 NDMM patients were evaluable who received VRd (Table 2). VCd arm results: Reeder et al. (2009, n=33) achieved the best ORR of 88% which was largely VGPR or better (61%). Tuchman et al. (2017, n=14) reported similar results of ORR (64%) with 58% achieving VGPR or better and 7% achieving PR. Contrary to these ORR distributions, Sunami et al. (2019, n=64) reported the ORR of 80% which was largely driven by PR of 41%. Moreover, a 2-year OS of 97% and PFS of 77% which is consistent with previous results. The toxicity profile with VCd was manageable with mostly hematological adverse events. Neuropathy was significantly lower when compared to VRd. VRd arm results: NDMM patients, in a phase III trial by Durie et al. (2016, n=471) achieved ORR of 82% (PR=38%, VGPR=28%, and CR=16%) with VRd. The mPFS was 43 months and mOS was 75 months, both significantly better than control. Stadtmauer et al. (2019, n=254) results were similar as well with 3-year PFS and OS as 58% and 85% respectively. Kumar et al. (2012, n=42) had a 1-year OS of 100% and PFS of 83%. O'Donnel et al. (2018, n=50) achieved mPFS of 35 months while mOS could not be reached. Luoma et al. (2019, n=78) achieved a 3-year PFS of 52% while OS of 83%. Severe neuropathy was reported with VRd regimen. The remaining toxicity profile was mostly hematological and manageable with prompt intervention. Conclusion: The two upfront regimens of VCd and VRd show favorable efficacy and safety outcomes in NDMM patients. VRd arm achieves relatively higher rates of ORR, CR and VGPR. Cost-effectiveness and lower neuropathy incidence associated with VCd makes it favorable over VRd. Disclosures Anwer: Incyte, Seattle Genetics, Acetylon Pharmaceuticals, AbbVie Pharma, Astellas Pharma, Celegene, Millennium Pharmaceuticals.: Honoraria, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau.

Maintenance Therapy in Newly Diagnosed and Transplant Ineligible Multiple Myeloma Patients: A Meta-Analysis

Introduction: Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable plasma cell disorder with more than two-thirds of the newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) patients being ≥65 years of age. Recent advancements in the treatment of MM with novel agents and autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) have significantly improved survival in those patients. However, the management of NDMM in many elderly patients remains a challenge due to frailty, multiple comorbidities, and their ineligibility for ASCT. Our aim in this study is to review and analyze the safety and efficacy of different maintenance regimes for NDMM patients who are ineligible for ASCT. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was done on four databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Clinicaltrials.gov). A search was performed without the use of filters and using MeSH terms for multiple myeloma and maintenance therapy (MT). Studies involving transplant-ineligible NDMM patients which reported overall response rate (ORR), complete response (CR), very good partial response (VGPR), or partial response (PR) along with adverse effects were included. A pooled analysis of the extracted data was performed using the "meta" package by Schwarzer et al. in the R programming language (version 4.0.2). The event rates were pooled using the inverse variance method and logit transformation. The between-studies variance was calculated using the DerSimonian-Laird estimator. The random-effects model was used for the analysis. Results: Lenalidomide based MT: Four studies involving 950 transplant-ineligible NDMM patients were included. All patients received lenalidomide (R) based MT following induction therapy. A pooled analysis of these studies showed ORR of 88% (95% confidence interval (CI): 81%-93%, p &amp;lt; 0.01) with 67% of the patients showing ≥VGPR (95% CI: 48%-82%, p &amp;lt;0.01) (Figure 1 A). The most common ≥ grade 3 hematological adverse effects (AE) included neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia while most common ≥ grade 3 non-hematological AE were infections, diarrhea, and fatigue (Table 1). Bortezomib based MT: Five clinical trials involving 1171 NDMM patients who received bortezomib (V) based MT were included and evaluated in our study (Figure 1 B). Pooled analysis showed ORR of 84% (95% CI: 74%-91%, p &amp;lt;0.01) with 32% patients showing CR (95% CI: 25%-41%, p &amp;lt;0.01). The most common ≥ grade 3 hematological and non-hematological AE's are reported in table 1. Ixazomib based MT: A total of 202 transplant-ineligible NDMM patients were evaluated for a response after receiving ixazomib (I) based MT in 5 clinical trials (Figure 1 C). A pooled analysis of these trials showed an ORR of 86% (95% CI: 69%-94%, p: &amp;lt;0.01) with 60% patients having ≥ VGPR (95% CI: 40%-76%, p &amp;lt;0.01). The most common ≥ grade 3 hematological AE included anemia (9%), neutropenia (15%), and thrombocytopenia (3%). (Table 1) Conclusion: V, R and I based MT has shown promising efficacy with an acceptable safety profile in transplant-ineligible NDMM patients. R based MT has shown superior ORR compared to V or I based MT. However, data from more clinical trials are needed. Disclosures Anwer: Incyte, Seattle Genetics, Acetylon Pharmaceuticals, AbbVie Pharma, Astellas Pharma, Celegene, Millennium Pharmaceuticals.: Honoraria, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau.

Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Inhibit CD8+ t Cell Immune Responses Via PD-1/PD-L1 Pathway in Multiple Myeloma

High expression of the inhibitory receptor programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) on tumor cells and tumor stromal cells have been found play a key role in tumor immune evasion in several human malignancies. However, the expression of PD-L1 on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and whether the PD-1/PD-L1 signal pathway is involved in the BMSCs versus T cell immune response in Multiple Myeloma (MM) remain poorly defined. In this study, we explored the expression of PD-L1 on BMSCs from newly diagnosed MM (NDMM) patients and the role of PD-1/PD-L1 pathway in BMSCs-mediated regulation of CD8+T cells. The data showed that the expression of PD-L1 on BMSCs in NDMM patients was significantly increased than that in normal controls (NC) (18.81±1.61% vs. 2.78±0.70 %; P&amp;lt;0.001). Furthermore, the PD-1 expression on CD8+T cells with NDMM patients was significantly higher than that in normal controls (43.22±2.98% vs. 20.71±1.08%; P&amp;lt;0.001). However, there was no significant difference in PD-1 expression of CD4+ T cells and NK cells between NDMM group and NC group. Additionally, the co-culture assays revealed that BMSCs significantly promoted CD8+ T cells apoptosis and suppressed CD8+ T cells function. However, PD-L1 inhibitor effectively reversed BMSCs-mediated suppression in CD8+ T cells. We also found that the combination of PD-L1 inhibitor and pomalidomide can further enhance the killing effect of CD8+ T cells on MM cells. In summary, our findings demonstrated that BMSCs in patients with MM may induce apoptosis of CD8+T cells through the PD-1/PD-L1 axis and inhibit the release of perforin and granzyme B from CD8+ T cells so as to promote the immune escape of MM. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Risk of Serious Infections with Lenalidomide Based Regimens in Multiple Myeloma: A Network Meta-Analysis

Background: Lenalidomide is an immune modulator, approved for use since 2005 for the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) patients. Its use is associated with an increased risk of infections. Combination of lenalidomide with other drugs, monoclonal antibodies, proteasome inhibitors, dexamethasone, and alkylators, can enhance the risk of serious infections. We conducted a network meta-analysis to compare the incidence of ≥Grade 3 infections among lenalidomide based regimens used in MM that can help clinicians to monitor patients for the risk of infections. Methods: A search was performed on PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, and Web of Science. We used the following keywords, "lenalidomide" AND "multiple myeloma" from the inception of literature till 06/10/2020. We screened 14,684 articles and included 23 randomized clinical trials (RCT) (N=11,174) in network meta-analysis. We extracted the data for serious (≥Grade 3) infections in lenalidomide based regimens. We excluded case reports, case series, preclinical trials, non-randomized clinical trials, observational studies, review articles, meta-analysis, and RCTs not providing any information about ≥Grade 3 infections. We used the "netmeta" package by Rucker et al. in the R programming language (version 4.0.2) to conduct frequentist network meta-analysis. Results: In 23 RCTs, the median age was ≥65years in 11 RCTs (N=5585) and ≤65 in 12 RCTs (5589). 9 RCTs were performed on relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) patients (N=4254), while 13 RCTs were performed on newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) patients (N=6920). Lenalidomide regimen was used as maintenance therapy in 8 RCT (N=4255). Table 1 reviews the baseline characteristics. The pooled incidence of high-grade infections in trials with a median age of ≥65 and ≤65 years is 1010/5585 and 634/5589, respectively. The incidence of high-grade infections is 693/4254 in RRMM patients, 951/6920 in NDMM patients, and 466/4255 in NDMM patients with maintenance therapy. P-score in table 2 represents the mean extent of certainty with which a regimen is better in terms of the incidence of high-grade infections, i.e., higher P-score means a lower risk of serious infections. According to P-score, lenalidomide with carfilzomib and dexamethasone is worst in terms of the incidence of infections. Indirect comparison of placebo with lenalidomide shows a risk ratio of high-grade infections of 2.87 (95% CI: 1.96; 4.23) in favor of placebo. Fig 1 outlines the indirect comparison of the incidence of high-grade infections with different lenalidomide based regimens vs. placebo. Table 3. shows the calculated indirect comparison of high-grade infections in each lenalidomide based regimen. Heterogeneity was not statistically significant. For serious infections, lenalidomide dexamethasone showed a risk ratio of 0.86, 0.70*, 0.76*, 0.78*, 0.77, and 0.77 in comparison with the combination of lenalidomide dexamethasone with bortezomib, carfilzomib, daratumumab, elotuzumab, ixazomib, and pembrolizumab respectively (*statistically significant). Conclusion: This network meta-analysis suggests an increase in the risk of high-grade infections with the addition of bortezomib, monoclonal antibodies, ixazomib, and carfilzomib to lenalidomide in multiple myeloma patients with the highest increase in risk with the addition of carfilzomib. Additional randomized clinical trials are needed on the toxicity of lenalidomide based regimens to confirm these results. Disclosures Anwer: Incyte, Seattle Genetics, Acetylon Pharmaceuticals, AbbVie Pharma, Astellas Pharma, Celegene, Millennium Pharmaceuticals.: Honoraria, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau.