Relapsed Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma Research Articles

R-CHOP with Iodine-131 Tositumomab Consolidation for Advanced Stage Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL): Southwest Oncology Group Protocol S0433

AbstractAbstract 590 Background:Although the majority of patients (pts) with DLBCL have durable remissions following R-CHOP chemotherapy, a substantial proportion of pts with advanced stage disease and other clinical risk factors are not cured. Low toxicity options are required for the majority of pts who are over age 60, or have medical comorbidities. Radioimmunotherapy, a low-toxicity option, is active in relapsed DLBCL (Blood 110:54), and improves PFS when used as consolidation after chemotherapy in follicular lymphoma (JCO 26:5156). We therefore evaluated consolidative radioimmunotherapy with iodine-131 tositumomab in pts with previously untreated DLBCL. Methods:Eligible pts had bulky stage II, or advanced stage DLBCL with measurable disease and adequate organ function. Treatment was 6 cycles of R-CHOP-21, followed by 2 cycles of CHOP-21 (no rituximab), followed by iodine-131 tositumomab (65 cGy if platelet count between 100 and 150/mm3 or 75 cGy if normal platelet count) 4–12 weeks after last dose of CHOP. Results:Eighty six pts (84 eligible; 45 females) were enrolled. Median age was 64 years; International Prognostic Index risks were low (n=20, 24%), low intermediate (n=27; 32%), high intermediate (n=27, 32%) and high (n=10, 12%). Five pts died of toxicities possibly related to therapy including one case each of febrile neutropenia, acute myeloid leukemia, and renal failure; there were two deaths from cardiac ischemia including one following a GI bleed in setting of thrombocytopenia after iodine-131 tositumomab. With a median follow-up of 12 months, 26 pts have progressed or died, with a 1-year progression-free survival (PFS) estimate of 75% (95%CI: 64%-85%), and 1-year overall survival (OS) estimate of 83% (95% CI:74%-93%). Based on prior studies, the estimated historical 1-year PFS rate with R-CHOP alone in this population is 74%. Complete data on iodine-131 tositumomab treatment is available for 73 of 84 eligible patients: 23 pts (32%) did not receive iodine-131 tositumomab due to early progression (n=3), other adverse event (n=6), refusal (n=6), death (n=3), or other reasons (n=5). Conclusions:A consolidation strategy utilizing iodine-131 tositumomab after 8 cycles of CHOP chemotherapy (6 with rituximab) for DLBCL does not appear to be promising in regard to 1 year PFS or OS. Unlike follicular lymphoma, in this population of DLBCL, early progressions, deaths, and declining performance status during CHOP chemotherapy limits the number of pts who ultimately can benefit from a planned consolidation approach. These current results suggest that the incorporation of novel agents earlier in therapy may ultimately have greater impact in DLBCL than consolidation or maintenance approaches. (Supported by 5U10CA32102-31, 5U10CA38926-25, and GlaxoSmithKline). Disclosures:Friedberg:Genentech: Honoraria. Off Label Use: Iodine-131 tositumomab for large cell lymphoma. Gopal:GlaxoSmithKline: Research Funding. Press:Trubion Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy, Equity Ownership; PhaseRx: Equity Ownership; Algeta: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Honoraria; Genentech: Honoraria; Spectrum: Honoraria.

Survival of Patients with Relapsed Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma In a Community Hospital

AbstractAbstract 4902Introduction: Of the various subtypes of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most prevalent, making up 30 percent of all non-Hodgkin's lymphoma cases. Information from community hospitals regarding the treatment and survival of relapsed patients is scarce. The study was done to obtain the survival data of patients with a relapse of DLBCL, treated with and without transplant at our center.Patients and Methods: The tumor registry data at Jersey Shore University Medical Center between 2000–2008 was reviewed. 41 patients had been diagnosed with DLBCL. Of these, the diagnosis in 13 pts represented a relapse of DLBCL. Review of the hospital records showed that the treatments for these relapsed patients had been radiation, rituximab -based chemotherapy, and/or autologous stem cell transplant. Eight were female and five were male, with a median age of 66 years at initial diagnosis (range: 51 to 81 years). The median age was 68 at the time of relapse (range: 52 to 82 years). Survival was measured from the time of the diagnosis of relapse until death from any cause or the date when lost to follow up. Information on the duration of time from initial diagnosis to relapse was also obtained.Results: Of the 13 patients who relapsed, 3 underwent stem cell transplant, one of whom died at 43 weeks and two are alive after 70 and 336 weeks. Of the 10 who did not have transplant, 6 died at 2, 8, 15, 19, 19 and 38 weeks. The 4 remaining non-transplant patients are alive at 37, 61, 167, and 221 weeks. Of the 13 patients who relapsed, at primary diagnosis, one had been stage I, 3 had been stage II, 3 had been stage III, and 5 had been stage IV. One was of unknown stage. The average time from diagnosis to relapse was 80 weeks.Conclusion: Although our numbers are small, it does appear that there is a role for second-line treatments in those patients with a relapse of large cell lymphoma that are not undergoing stem cell transplant. Further study of the treatment of non-transplanted patients with relapsed DLBCL appears warranted. Disclosures:No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

HDAC Class I Inhibition Acetylates a Non-Histone Protein STAT3 by Modulating p300-STAT3-HDAC1 Interaction In Activated B- Cell Like (ABC) Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma

AbstractAbstract 115Patients with diffuse large B- cell lymphoma (DLBCL) tumors that have an activated B-cell like (ABC) gene expression profile have a poorer prognosis. Understanding the mechanism(s) used by ABC tumor cells to resist the effects of common chemotherapy agents may lead to alternative approaches for the treatment of these tumors. ABC cell lines have been shown to have high levels of phosphorylated STAT3 (pSTAT3); however, the mechanisms that regulate STAT3 signaling in ABC DLBCL remain unclear. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are enzymes that can deacetylate both non-histone and histone substrates. In this study we tested the hypothesis that HDACs in the tumor cells target a non-histone protein STAT3 in ABC DLBCL.In studies of HDAC expression in DLBCL tumors, we found over-expression of the type 1 HDACs, specifically HDAC1and HDAC3, in the pSTAT3- positive ABC tumors as compared to germinal centre B like (GCB) tumors. We then performed a co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assay to learn the functional interaction between STAT3 and HDAC1. We found that STAT3 formed complexes with HDAC1 or HDAC3. Further Co-IP studies demonstrated that p300, a histone acetyltransferase (HAT), STAT3, and HDAC1 are all in the same complex. To determine whether p300 acetylates STAT3 in ABC cells, we immuno-precipitated endogenous p300 and blotted with acetylated STAT3 and showed that p300 acetylates STAT3 at lysine 685. We next tested whether HDAC inhibition could affect p300 mediated STAT3 acetylation in ABC cells. Inhibition of HDAC activity through the HDAC inhibitor LBH589 (LBH, Novartis Pharmaceuticals) increased STAT3 acetylation in a dose- dependent manner. Similar results were obtained when we used antiacetyl- lysine antibody. Furthermore HDAC1 over-expression inhibits STAT3 acetylation at lysine 685. This data implies a tight regulation of STAT3 acetylation and deacetylases in vivo in ABC lymphoma. In addition to acetylation, STAT3 can be modified by phosphorylation, thus the effect of HDAC inhibition on pSTAT3 both at serine and tyrosine residues was studied. We observed a dose-dependent decrease in pSTAT3 with some inhibitory effect on total STAT3. LBH was found to mediate STAT3 dephosphorylation by inhibiting the tyrosine phosphorylation of JAK2 and TYK2, the STAT3 upstream activators, in a dose- dependent manner. Since ABC lymphoma has higher levels of HDAC1 or HDAC3 and pSTAT3/STAT3 than GCB, we hypothesized that ABC cells will be more sensitive to HDAC inhibition than GCB. In fact, when ABC and GCB DLBCL cells were treated with LBH we observed that LBH was more cytotoxic to ABC than GCB as evidenced by annexin/PI staining and PARP cleavage. LD90 was 25 nM for ABC cells, however GCB cells required 5 times more LBH to kill 90% cells. STAT3 activation regulates genes involved in cell survival, including Bcl-2, Mcl-1, Bcl-XL, and c-Myc. LBH treatment resulted in down-regulation of Mcl-1 and c-Myc in ABC cells but has no effect in GCB cells; however, Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL levels were not decreased in both the subtype. Having established that HDAC1 physically associated with STAT3 and that LBH treatment elevated STAT3 acetylation in ABC cells, we proceeded to deplete endogenous HDAC1 with siRNA in Ly3 cells and found that HDAC1 knockdown up-regulated STAT3 acetylation indicating that HDAC1 negatively regulates the acetylation in vivo. HDAC1 inhibition also prevented phopshorylation of STAT3 and induces aopotosis in ABC cells.In summary, we have demonstrated that a key consequence of HATs and HDACs expression and activity is modulation of the STAT3 pathway in ABC lymphoma. Inhibition of this pathway with the HDAC inhibitor LBH inhibits constitutive STAT3 signaling and induces Mcl-1 mediated apoptosis. These studies provide the rationale for targeting the poorly responsive ABC-type DLBCL by inhibiting HDAC activity with epigenetic inhibitors such as LBH. We are currently testing LBH589 in relapsed DLBCL in a phase I clinical trial. Disclosures:No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

High Response Rate and Low Toxicity of Rituximab, Vinorelbine, Ifosfamide, Mitoxantrone and Prednisone Combination for the Treatment of Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma In First Relapse: Early Results of the R-NIMP GOELAMS Study.

AbstractAbstract 2796 Background:Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) relapse prognosis is poor, and the optimal salvage treatment is not known. In a previous pilot study, vinorelbine, ifosfamide, mitoxantrone, and prednisone (NIMP) without rituximab has shown a promising efficacy in the setting of relapsed DLBCL. Aims:To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of the combination of rituximab and NIMP in the treatment of DLBCL in first relapse. Methods:This multicentric, single-arm phase II study included patients 18 to 75 years old, with CD20-positive DLBCL in first relapse (defined as having obtained at least a PR of more than 50% to an anthracycline-based front-line regimen) occurring more than 30 days after the last chemotherapy cycle or more than one year after an autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) in first line. Other inclusion criteria were a performance status ≤ 2, absence of CNS involvement, and having signed an informed consent form. Patients with evidence of transformation from indolent lymphoma, primary refractory disease, or positive HIV tests were excluded. Initial and relapse biopsies were centrally reviewed. Patients received intravenous (IV) rituximab 375 mg/m2 D1, ifosfamide 1000 mg/m2 as a continuous infusion from D1 to D5, IV vinorelbine 25 mg/m2 D1 and D15, IV mitoxantrone 10 mg/m2 D1, and oral prednisone 1 mg/kg D1 to D5, repeated every 28 days for three cycles. Pegfilgrastim support (6 mg at D7) was recommended. The primary endpoint was CR/CRu after 3 cycles, and was assessed by computed tomography according to the IWG criteria. Mobilization, consolidation or subsequent salvage therapy was decided at the discretion of the investigator. All the monitoring and data management were performed by the GOELAMS clinical research assistants, with a database lock on July 27, 2010. Results:Fifty patients (21[42%] women and 29[58%] men) were included in 18 centers between December 2004 and accrual closure in April 2010. All patients received at least 1 cycle of R-NIMP. Forty-five patients were available for central pathology review, toxicity and response. The central review of all patient samples confirmed DLBCL histology. Median age at study entry was 62.9 years (range: 34.8–75.6). Median time between first diagnosis of DLBCL and relapse was 18.0 months (range: 2.4–208). The following tumor responses were observed: 67.9 % overall response rate with 20 CR/CRu (43.5%), 11 PR (24.4%), 2 SD (4.4%), and 12 (26.7%) progressed under therapy. Toxicity information was available for 109/120 (91 %) of the first 3 cycles of R-NIMP administered. The following toxicities were observed (all grades, ≥ grade 3 for all cycles): anemia (87%, 8%), neutropenia (66%; 46%), thrombopenia (65%, 14%), elevated liver tests (39%, 0%), constipation (25%, 0%), kidney failure (7%, 0%), nausea (14%, 0%), vomiting (6%, 0%), allergic reactions (5%, 0%), and mucositis (5%, 0%). Twenty-nine infectious events (27%) were observed needing hospitalization in 9 cases. Twenty-nine patients received consolidation therapy at the discretion of the investigator. Of the 11 patients who received 3 additional cycles of R-NIMP, 3 remained in CR/CRu, 1 remained in PR, 4 converted from PR to CR/CRu, and 3 progressed. Among the 11 patients who underwent ASCT, 9 were in CR at the end of the procedure, one patient died of toxicity and 1 progressed. For the 12 patients mobilized after a R-NIMP cycle, a median of 1 apheresis (range 1–4) was necessary to harvest a median of 3.85 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg. The median time to second progression or relapse (TTP2) was 11.4 months, and the median survival of 55.5 months. On multivariate analysis, the variable associated with a longer TTP2 was the achievement of CR/Cru (RR: 0,12; CI95%: 0.03–0,39; p=0.0006). Within the subgroup of patients having received a consolidation treatment, having received an ASCT was associated with a longer TTP2 (RR: 0.20; CI95%: 0.04–0.98; p=0.047). Time to first relapse or previous rituximab exposure did not affect TTP2 nor OS, whereas relapse-IPI (as a continuous variable, by 1 additional risk factor) was associated with a poor survival (RR: 2.59; CI95%: 1.25–4.45; p=0.008). Conclusions:R-NIMP is a well-tolerated regimen, yields a high complete response rate, and allows for successful mobilization of CD34+ cells. This regimen is a suitable salvage treatment for relapsed DLBCL prior to appropriate consolidation. Further investigation is warranted. ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT00842595 Disclosures:Off Label Use: Vinorelbine in Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (Off-label in France).

Ofatumumab Monotherapy for Treatment of Patients with Relapsed/Progressive Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma: Results From a Multicenter Phase II Study

AbstractAbstract 3955 Background:Patients (pts) with relapsed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) ineligible for autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) or relapsing after ASCT have a poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. New treatment options are needed for these pts. Ofatumumab is a human monoclonal antibody that targets a membrane-proximal epitope comprising both the large loop and small loop of CD20, and has shown effective lysis of chemotherapy-refractory DLBCL cells in vitro (Teeling et al. Blood 2004; Cillessen et al. Blood 2007; abstract 2346). We report the first results from an open-label, single-arm, international Phase II trial that evaluated ofatumumab monotherapy in relapsed or progressive DLBCL. Methods:Pts (age ≥18 years) with relapsed or progressive CD20+ DLBCL ineligible for ASCT or with relapsed or progressive disease after ASCT were enrolled between December 2007 and August 2009 (N=81). Relapsed or progressive disease was defined as relapse after a complete remission (CR) or disease progression after partial remission (PR). Pts received 8 weekly infusions of ofatumumab (dose 1, 300 mg; doses 2–8, 1000 mg). The primary endpoint was overall response rate (ORR) evaluated during the 6 months from the start of treatment, as assessed by an Independent Endpoint Review Committee according to the revised response criteria (Cheson et al. J Clin Oncol 2007). Secondary endpoints included duration of response, progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS) and safety. Results:Baseline characteristics are shown in the Table. Pts were heavily pretreated (median 3 prior systemic therapies), and 32% of pts did not respond to their last prior therapy. Nearly all pts (96%) had received prior rituximab-containing treatment; 54% had received 2 or more courses of prior rituximab therapy (Table). Overall, 58% of pts completed all 8 infusions of ofatumumab, 65% received at least 6 infusions, and 81% received at least 4 infusions. The primary reason for treatment discontinuation was disease progression. The ORR (95% CI) was 11% (4–18%), including 3 CRs (4%) and 6 PRs (7%). Of these 9 responding pts, 8 had responded to their last systemic therapy. The median duration of response (95% CI) was 6.9 months (5.3–6.9) and median PFS (95% CI) was 2.5 months (2.3–2.9). Infusion-related events occurred in 59% of pts, primarily occurred during infusion 1 (40% of pts) and infusion 2 (22%), and subsided during subsequent infusions; these events were predominantly grade 1–2 in severity (96% of pts). The most common (>10% of pts) adverse events (AEs; any grade) were diarrhea (17%), fatigue (15%), peripheral edema (15%), neutropenia (14%), abdominal pain (12%), constipation (12%), nausea (12%), pyrexia (11%), anemia (11%) and leukopenia (11%). Of these, ≥ grade 3 events included neutropenia (10%), leukopenia (6%), anemia (5%) and fatigue (1%). Grade 3 or greater thrombocytopenia and febrile neutropenia were reported in 6% and 4% of pts, respectively. The most common infectious events were upper respiratory tract infections (7% of pts), all of which were grade 1–2 events. In total, 13 pts died during the study; 3 pts died during the treatment period and 10 pts died during post-treatment follow up (until 24 months from study start). Deaths were due to disease progression (n=10), sepsis (n=1), circulatory collapse (no further details; n=1) and multi-organ failure (n=1). Conclusions:Single-agent ofatumumab was well tolerated with an ORR of 11% in heavily pretreated pts with relapsed or progressive DLBCL, nearly all of whom had received prior rituximab therapy. Response to last systemic treatment appeared to influence response to ofatumumab in this pt population. Further studies of ofatumumab in combination with chemotherapy in relapsed DLBCL are currently underway. Disclosures:Off Label Use: Ofatumumab is an investigational anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, currently under development for the treatment of B-cell malignancies (chronic lymphocytic leukemia, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, Waldenstroms macroglobulinemia and follicular lymphoma) as well as autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis). Davies:GlaxoSmithKline: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Padmanabhan:GlaxoSmithKline: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. Gupta:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment. Lin:GlaxoSmithKline: Consultancy, Employment. Davis:GlaxoSmithKline: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Losic:Genmab A/S: Employment, Equity Ownership. Lisby:Genmab A/S: Employment. Radford:GlaxoSmithKline: Equity Ownership; Genmab: Consultancy, Honoraria.

Anti-CD22 Immunoconjugate Inotuzumab Ozogamicin (CMC-544) + Rituximab In Relapsed DLBCL Patients Followed by Stem Cell Transplantation: Preliminary Safety and Efficacy

Anti-CD22 Immunoconjugate Inotuzumab Ozogamicin (CMC-544) + Rituximab In Relapsed DLBCL Patients Followed by Stem Cell Transplantation: Preliminary Safety and Efficacy

Primary Pancreatic Lymphoma

AbstractAbstract 4150 Introduction:Primary extranodal pancreatic non-Hodgkin lymphoma (PPL) makes up no more than 0.16–4.9% of pancreatic malignancies and less than 0.7% of non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHL). Since lymphomas involving the pancreas may have a similar clinical presentation to primary pancreatic adenocarcinoma, and often have a similar radiographic appearance, pancreatic lymphoma is often not diagnosed until surgical exploration or definitive surgery for presumed pancreatic cancer. Preoperative distinction of adenocarcinoma and PPL is critical as the management and prognoses of these malignancies are mutually exclusive. The rarity of PPL has made epidemiologic studies difficult to conduct. Methods:We queried our IRB-approved clinicopathologic database, derived from comprehensive tumor registry data at the Massachusetts General Hospital, for all adult patients diagnosed with PPL between 2000 and 2010. The database contains 5821 patients with mature lymphoid malignancies. Cases were included in the analysis if they met clinicopathologic criteria for PPL, defined as dominant disease presentation within the body of the pancreas. Forty-five patients were found to have pancreatic involvement at initial presentation of whom 31 (68.9%) on further investigation had a pancreatic primary and are included in the analysis. For each patient, we collected complete demographic information, clinical presenting features, histology, chemotherapy regimens, use of radiotherapy, and type of surgical biopsy performed. We also collected outcome data including results of interim and final restaging scans. Results:PPL represented 0.5% of all mature lymphomas seen at our institution. The median age at diagnosis was 60 yrs (range 20–91). There were 21 male and 10 female patients. Eighteen patients had Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) (one with a focus of follicular lymphoma (FL) grade 3), two each had Burkitts Lymphoma, FL Grade 1–2, and mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), and one each had small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), Hodgkin Lymphoma, Marginal zone lymphoma, and peripheral T cell Lymphoma not otherwise specified. Three patients had NHL not otherwise specified (NOS). Of the 31 patients, 13 patients were stage 4E, 5 were stage 3E, 8 were stage 2E, and 5 were Stage 1E. Seventeen patients presented with jaundice. In 2 cases clinical history at presentation was unavailable. Elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level was present in 18 of 26 patients (69%) for whom laboratory values were available. B symptoms were present at diagnosis in 13 patients, absent in 17 patients, and unavailable in 1. Diagnosis was made in sixteen patients by fine needle aspiration (FNA), in nine patients by core needle biopsy, in two by incisional biopsies, and four patients were diagnosed after a definitive pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure). Information on therapeutic regimen was available for 24 patients. One of these 24 patients was treated with primary radiotherapy without chemotherapy for a grade 1–2 primary pancreatic FL. Twenty-three patients had initial chemotherapy: 8 with R-CHOP, 5 with CHOP, 2 with CVP, and 1 each with CHOP-14, CVP × 1 then CHOP, R-CVP, R-EPOCH, R-CODOX-M/R-IVAC, R-CDOP and R-CP then R-CHOP. One patient was treated with chemotherapy not otherwise specified in the medical record. Four of these 23 patients received consolidative radiotherapy after initial therapy. Chemotherapy had significant efficacy with an overall response rate (ORR) of 75% in all chemotherapy treated patients (10 CR, 8 PR). Therapy information was available on 13 patients with DLBCL with an ORR of 85% (7 CR, 4 PR) to R-CHOP in 8 patients, CHOP in 3, and 1 each R-EPOCH and R-CDOP. One patient died of meningeal relapse of DLBCL despite therapy with R-EPOCH. For the entire PPL group at median follow-up of 28.5 months, the progression free and overall survivals are 48.4% and 64.5%, respectively. At a median follow-up of 33.4 months, the progression free and overall survivals for the DLBCL-PPL group are 50.0% and 66.7%, respectively. Discussion:PPL is a rare extranodal presentation of lymphoma accounting for 0.5% of lymphomas seen at a tertiary referral center. Pre-surgical diagnosis of PPL is critical to avoidance of unnecessary major surgery. The outcome of PPL approximates the outcome of DLBCL in other sites. An increased rate of CNS relapse was not seen with presentations in this extranodal site. Disclosures:Hochberg:Biogen Idec: Speakers Bureau; Genentech: Speakers Bureau; Enzon Pharmaceuticals: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Amgen: Speakers Bureau; WorldCare: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Proventys: Consultancy.

Peripheral Blood Stem-Cell Mobilisation and Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation In HIV-Related Malignancies.

AbstractAbstract 4592 Introduction:Patients (pts) with HIV-infection are generally excluded from clinical trials that evaluate the role of high dose chemotherapy (HDCT) in malignant lymphoma or relapsed germ cell tumor (GCT). However, recent data indicate that HDCT followed by autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (ASCT) may be effective in relapsed HIV-related lymphoma. Methods:This is an observational cohort study including patients with HIV-related lymphoma or HIV-related GCT who have peripheral blood stem cells mobilized by a combination of chemotherapy (CT) and G-CSF. Pts did or did not undergo consecutive ASCT. The primary outcome measure is feasibility. High-dose BEAM was used as a conditioning regimen in pts with HIV-related lymphoma while high-dose carboplatin/etoposide (CE) was chosen for pts with GCT. Results:From 07/05 to 03/10 peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC) were successfully harvested in 10 of 11 HIV-infected pts with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) [n=4], Burkitt's lymphoma (BL) [n=3], plasmablastic lymphoma (PL) [n=2], Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) [n=1] and testicular GCT [n=1]. The mean number of collected stem cells was 15.7×106/kg CD34+ cells (range, 6.3 – 33). PBSC-mobilisation failed in one pt with relapsed BL. 7 of 11 pts were mobilized following salvage CT for DLBCL [n=4], BL [n=1], HL [n=1] or GCT [n=1] while 4 pts were under primary CT for BL or PL. So far, 5 of 10 pts received HDCT + ASCT. Pt 1 (44 yrs, CDC C3; HIV-RNA< 50 cop/ml at time of SCT) received HDCT as 3rd salvage therapy for DLBCL. A total of 9.2 × 106/kg CD34+ cells were transplanted. Neutrophil engraftment occurred on day +14. The pt achieved a partial remission but died of progressive lymphoma 6 months after ASCT. Pt 2 (60 yrs, CDC B3; HIV-RNA< 50/ml) underwent HDCT + ASCT (13.8 × 106/kg CD34+ cells) for a 1st relapse of HL. Neutrophil engraftment was observed on day +10. The pt is well and disease free 25 months after ASCT. Pt 3 (26 yrs, CDC C3, HIV-RNA< 50/ml), a hepatitis C co-infected haemophiliac, received HDCT + ASCT for refractory DLBCL but died of liver cirrhosis and neutropenic sepsis with multi-organ failure on day +16. Pt 4 (25 yrs, CDC A3, HIV-RNA< 50/ml) received 3 sequential courses of HD-CE followed by ASCT in 3-week intervals for a 3rd relapse of a nonseminomatous GCT. Neutrophil engraftment occurred on day +10, + 12 and +14, respectively. A complete remission (CR) was achieved. However, the pt suffered another relapse involving the central nervous system and died of progressive GCT 15 month after the 3rd transplant. Pt 5 (41 yrs, CDC C3, HIV-RNA 220/ml) underwent HDCT in 2nd complete remission after successful salvage-CT for a first sensitive relapse of DLBCL. A total of 12.9 × 106/kg CD34+ cells were transplanted. The pt is currently alive and neutropenic (day +3). ASCT was not performed in the other 6 pts because of refractory BL [n=1], ongoing first remission following induction CT for BL [n=2] and PL [n=2] and concomitant histoplasmosis necessitating antifungal therapy [n=1]. Conclusions:Successful mobilisation of PBSC is feasible in the majority of pts with HIV-related malignancies. ASCT seems effective in selected pts with chemo-sensitive relapse of malignant lymphoma or GCT. HIV-infected pts should no longer be excluded from HDCT-programs. Disclosures:No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Safety and efficacy of high-dose ranimustine, cytarabine, etoposide and CY (MCVAC) regimen followed by autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation for high-risk diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

The efficacy of high-dose chemotherapy followed by autologous hematopoietic SCT for relapsed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) has been reported, but an optimal conditioning regimen has not been determined. This study was conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the MCVAC regimen (consisting of ranimustine (MCNU), cytarabine, etoposide and CY) followed by autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (PBSCT) for patients with high-risk or relapsed DLBCL. A total of 40 patients with DLBCL who received the MCVAC regimen followed by autologous PBSCT were retrospectively evaluated. Median follow-up duration of the surviving patients was 51.2 months (range, 5.4-151.2 months). At 5-year OS and PFS were 73.7% (95% confidence interval (CI), 58.6-88.8) and 62.5% (95% CI, 46.8-78.2), respectively. Although relapse remained the most frequent cause of treatment failure, late-onset adverse events were observed, including two cases of severe pulmonary impairment, and two cases of therapy-related myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS)/AML. In conclusion, the MCVAC regimen would be an effective and tolerable conditioning regimen without TBI for autologous PBSCT for high-risk or relapsed DLBCL. However, late-onset pulmonary toxicity and MDS/AML should be monitored.

Effect of addition of rituximab to salvage chemotherapy on outcome of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma relapsing after an autologous stem-cell transplantation

BackgroundWe have investigated if rituximab-based salvage regimens improve response rates and survival of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) relapsing after an autologous stem-cell transplantation (ASCT). Patients and methodsWe have retrospectively analyzed 82 patients with DLBCL who received salvage therapy for relapse or progression after ASCT. Patients were divided into two groups, according to whether rituximab-based salvage regimens were given (n = 42, ‘R-’ group) or not (n = 40, ‘R+’ group) after ASCT. ResultsPatients in the R+ group had better complete remission (CR) (55% versus 21.4%, P = 0.006) and overall response (OR) (75% versus 40.4%, P = 0.001) rates, and better 3-year event-free survival (EFS) (37% versus 9%, P = 0.002) and overall survival (OS) (50% versus 20%, P = 0.005) than patients in the R- group. Patients retreated with rituximab had better CR (42.9% versus 21.4%, P = 0.032) and OR (66.7% versus 40.4%, P = 0.019) rates, and better OS (36.2% versus 20% at 3 years, P = 0.05) and EFS (36.2% versus 9% at 3 years, P = 0.05) than patients who received chemotherapy alone at relapse after ASCT. ConclusionsThe addition of rituximab to salvage chemotherapy improves response rates and EFS in patients with relapsed DLBCL after ASCT. These patients may benefit from rituximab retreatment, although larger prospective studies are needed to confirm these results.

Salvage Regimens With Autologous Transplantation for Relapsed Large B-Cell Lymphoma in the Rituximab Era

Salvage chemotherapy followed by high-dose therapy and autologous stem-cell transplantation (ASCT) is the standard treatment for relapsed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Salvage regimens have never been compared; their efficacy in the rituximab era is unknown. Patients with CD20(+) DLBCL in first relapse or who were refractory after first-line therapy were randomly assigned to either rituximab, ifosfamide, etoposide, and carboplatin (R-ICE) or rituximab, dexamethasone, high-dose cytarabine, and cisplatin (R-DHAP). Responding patients received high-dose chemotherapy and ASCT. The median age of the 396 patients enrolled (R-ICE, n = 202; R-DHAP, n = 194) was 55 years. Similar response rates were observed after three cycles of R-ICE (63.5%; 95% CI, 56% to 70%) and R-DHAP (62.8%; 95 CI, 55% to 69%). Factors affecting response rates (P < .001) were refractory disease/relapse less than versus more than 12 months after diagnosis (46% v 88%, respectively), International Prognostic Index (IPI) of more than 1 versus 0 to 1 (52% v 71%, respectively), and prior rituximab treatment versus no prior rituximab (51% v 83%, respectively). There was no significant difference between R-ICE and R-DHAP for 3-year event-free survival (EFS) or overall survival. Three-year EFS was affected by prior rituximab treatment versus no rituximab (21% v 47%, respectively), relapse less than versus more than 12 months after diagnosis (20% v 45%, respectively), and IPI of 2 to 3 versus 0 to 1 (18% v 40%, respectively). In the Cox model, these parameters were significant (P < .001). In patients who experience relapse more than 12 months after diagnosis, prior rituximab treatment does not affect EFS. Patients with early relapses after rituximab-containing first-line therapy have a poor prognosis, with no difference between the effects of R-ICE and R-DHAP.

Improved survival for relapsed diffuse large B cell lymphoma is predicted by a negative pre‐transplant FDG‐PET scan following salvage chemotherapy

The utility of ([18F])fluoro-2-deoxy- d-glucose positron-emission tomography (FDG-PET) for predicting outcome after autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) for diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is uncertain - existing studies include a range of histological subtypes or have a limited duration of follow-up. Thirty-nine patients with primary-refractory or relapsed DLBCL with pre-ASCT PET scans were analysed. The median follow-up was 3 years. The 3-year progression-free survival (PFS) for patients with positive PET scans pre-ASCT was 35% vs. 81% for those who had negative PET scans (P = 0.003). The overall survival (OS) in these groups was 39% and 81% (P = 0.01), respectively. In a multivariate analysis, PET result, number of salvage cycles and the presence of relapsed or refractory disease were shown to predict a longer PFS; PET negativity (P = 0.04) was predictive of a longer OS. PET is useful for defining those with an excellent prognosis post-ASCT. Although those with positive scans can still be salvaged with current treatments, PET may useful for selecting patients eligible for novel consolidation strategies after salvage therapies.

Clinical relevance of a positive result in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) by flow cytometry (FCM) in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

8089 Background: Central nervous system (CNS) relapse is an uncommon but serious complication of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and usually occurs early in the disease course, suggesting subclinical disease at diagnosis. Several studies have demonstrated the superiority of FCM analysis of CSF, as compared to conventional cytology (CC), in detecting occult leptomeningeal disease in heterogeneous groups of aggressive lymphoma. Nevertheless, the clinical relevance of a positive FCM is still to be determined in DLBCL. Methods: We reviewed CSF samples from 114 patients (pts) with DLBCL (15% being transformed follicular lymphoma), analyzed both by FCM and CC, between 2005 and 2009. Ninety-three samples were from newly diagnosed (ND) pts and 21 from pts in relapse. The R-IPI in ND was very good (2%), good (42%) and poor (56%). First-line treatments included R-CHOP (n=81) and R- ACVBP (n=9) regimens with methotrexate intrathecal prophylaxis, and pts in relapse received several types of salvage treatments. A FCM+ did not influence treatment strategies. Results: Seventeen samples of the 114 were FCM+, versus 1 sample CC+ (this being also FCM+). In order not to overestimate the risk of CNS relapse, we excluded from the analysis pts with signs at presentation suggesting leptomeningeal disease (n=13). Therefore, within ND pts without neurological signs (n=86), 9 (10%) were FCM+, versus 4 FCM+ (27%) in the 15 pts in relapse. In the first group, 1/9 (11%) developed CNS relapse versus 0/4 (0%) in the second group. Within all pts without neurological signs (n=101), 4 (4%) relapsed in the CNS, with a median time to relapse of 5.2 months. In those, only 1/4 (25%) was FCM+ prior to relapse. Clinical features that showed an association with CNS relapse were: more than one extranodal site (ENS) of disease and the conjunction of elevated LDH and ENS>1 (p=0.04 and p=0.018, respectively). Conclusions: FCM gives far more positive results than CC, when analyzing CSF of pts with DLBCL (17/114 FCM+, versus 1/114 CC+). However, a positive FCM result did not translate into an increased relapse rate in the CNS, in this population. Therefore, FCM failed to have a predictive value in the occurrence of CNS relapse in DLBCL. No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Use of lymphopenia assessed during routine follow-up after immunochemotherapy (R-CHOP) to predict relapse in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

e18516 Background: A specific predictor during routine follow-up to ascertain risk for relapse after standard chemotherapy in non- Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) has not been identified. Thus, we studied absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) as a marker of post-standard immunochemotherapy (R-CHOP) NHL relapse in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Methods: From 2000 until 2006, 149 DLBCL consecutive patients were treated with R-CHOP, originally diagnosed, treated, and followed at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, were included in this study from the Mayo Clinic Lymphoma Data Base. ALC was obtatined at the time of confirmed relapse and at last follow-up. Results: Patients at last follow-up without relapse (N=112) had a higher ALC compared with those with relapsed (N= 37) [median ALC × 109/L of 1.43 (range: 0.33-4.0) vs 0.67 (range: 0.18-1.98), p <0.0001, respectively]. ALC at the time of confirmed relapse was a strong predictor for relapse with an area under the curve (AUC) = 0.91 (p<0.0001). An ALC < 0.96 × 109/L (N = 46) at the time of confirmed relapse had a positive predictive value of 72% and a positive likelihood ratio of 7.4 to predict relapse post-R-CHOP in DLBCL. Patients with an ALC ≥ 0.96 × 109/L (N = 103) had a cumulative incidence of relapse of 6% versus 79% with an ALC < 0.96 × 109/L (N = 46) (p<0.0001). Conclusions: This study suggests that lymphopenia measured by ALC can be used as marker to assess risk of DLBCL relapse during routine follow-up after standard immunochemotherapy. No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Lymphopenia assessed during routine follow-up after immunochemotherapy (R-CHOP) is a risk factor for predicting relapse in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

A specific predictor during routine follow-up to ascertain risk for relapse after standard chemotherapy in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) has not been identified. Thus, we studied absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) as a marker of poststandard chemotherapy (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, adriamycin, vincristine and prednisone (R-CHOP)) NHL relapse in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). ALC was obtained at the time of confirmed relapse and at last follow-up. From 2000 until 2006, 149 consecutive DLBCL patients, originally diagnosed, treated with R-CHOP and followed up at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, were included in this study. Patients at last follow-up without relapse (N=112) had a higher ALC compared with those with relapsed lymphoma ((N=37) median ALC x 10(9)/l of 1.43 (range: 0.33-4.0) versus 0.67 (range: 0.18-1.98), P<0.0001, respectively). ALC at the time of confirmed relapse was a strong predictor for relapse with an area under the curve =0.91 (P<0.0001). An ALC <0.96 x 10(9)/l at the time of confirmed relapse had a positive predictive value of 72% and a positive likelihood ratio of 7.4 to predict relapse after R-CHOP in DLBCL. Patients with an ALC>or=0.96 x 10(9)/l (N=103) had a cumulative incidence of relapse of 6 versus 79% with an ALC <0.96 x 10(9)/l (N=46) (P<0.0001). This study suggests that lymphopenia measured by ALC can be used as a marker to assess risk of DLBCL relapse during routine follow-up after standard chemotherapy.

Comparison of outcomes after auto-SCT for patients with relapsed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma according to previous therapy with rituximab

The standard approach for relapsed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) involves auto-SCT. However, studies that established this approach were conducted before the inclusion of rituximab (R) with first-line therapy became routine. Whether DLBCL patients (pts) relapsing after first-line chemoimmunotherapy including R derive a comparable benefit from auto-SCT to pts in the pre-R era is unknown. We analyzed outcomes after auto-SCT for relapsed DLBCL among pts receiving initial R and those who did not. We reviewed 257 consecutive pts with relapsed DLBCL treated at our institution with auto-SCT. In all, 226 pts were included in the analysis, of whom 161 had received no R and 65 received R as part of first-line therapy (Planned R). Median OS and relapse-free survival, measured from transplant, were similar between No R vs Planned R groups: 67 vs 44 months (P=0.3) and 25 vs 27 months (P=0.8), respectively. A further analysis was carried out between two cohorts matched by propensity analysis. Again, no differences in outcomes were observed. This suggests that auto-SCT may be equally effective in pts relapsing after first-line therapy including R, and should remain the standard of care for relapsed DLBCL.

Lymphoma Recurrence 5 Years or Later Following Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma: Clinical Characteristics and Outcome

PURPOSE Patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) usually relapse early following diagnosis but some relapses happen at 5 years or later. Few data exist regarding clinical characteristics and outcome of these patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of all patients from two centers in Lyon, France, between 1985 and 2003 who had a biopsy-proven relapse 5 years or later following diagnosis of DLBCL. All available biopsies were reviewed and immunohistochemistry was completed. Results Among 1,492 patients with DLBCL, 54 were eligible. At diagnosis, 63% of patients had stage I-II, 82% had low/low-intermediate International Prognostic Index (IPI) score, 65% had extranodal involvement, 24% had an indolent component associated with DLBCL, 57% had germinal center phenotype, and 43% had non-germinal center phenotype. Median time from diagnosis to relapse was 7.4 years (range, 5 to 20.5 years). At time of relapse, 83% had DLBCL histology, and 17% had indolent histology. Having an indolent component at diagnosis was associated with indolent histology at relapse (P = .028). Five-year event free-survival (EFS) was 17% for patients with DLBCL relapse and 61% for patients with indolent relapse (P = .027). Five-year overall survival was 27% for patients with DLBCL and 75% for patients with indolent relapse (P = .029). For DLBCL relapse, 3-year EFS was 56% versus 18% with autologous stem-cell transplantation or not, respectively (P = .0661). CONCLUSION Patients with DLBCL who had a late relapse usually had localized stage, favorable IPI score, and extranodal involvement at diagnosis. The outcome of patients with DLBCL at time of relapse remains poor, and aggressive treatment such as autologous stem-cell transplantation should be pursued whenever possible. Biopsy at relapse is essential because some patients relapse with indolent histology.

Efficacy and Safety of Modified Rituximab-ESHAP Therapy for Relapsed/Refractory B-Cell Lymphoma

Combined therapy of rituximab, etoposide, methylprednisolone, high-dose cytarabine, and cisplatin (R-ESHAP) has been one of the most frequently used salvage regimens for relapsed/refractory non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. In 2002, we introduced the modified R-ESHAP regimen in which cisplatin was switched to carboplatin. We evaluated the safety and effectiveness of this modified regimen by reviewing the records of 35 patients who had been administered R-ESHAP. Our cohort included 21 patients with diffuse large b cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and 14 patients with follicular lymphoma (FL). The overall response rate (ORR) was 48% for DLBCL and 93% for FL. The overall survival (OS) for patients with DLBCL was 51% with a median follow-up of 11 months, and 91% for patients with FL with a median follow-up of 36 months. Our study indicates that modified R-ESHAP is an effective and safe salvage regimen for relapsed/refractory FL, however, its efficacy for relapsed DLBCL is limited.

A Phase 1b Clinical Trial of Dacetuzumab in Combination with Rituximab and Gemcitabine: Multiple Responses Observed in Patients with Relapsed Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma.

Abstract 586 Background:Dacetuzumab (SGN-40), a humanized monoclonal antibody that targets CD40, mediates antitumor activity through multiple mechanisms of action, including effector cell functions (ADCC/ADCP) and direct apoptotic signal transduction. Ongoing evaluation of the molecule has led to 2 additional key findings: a gene signature that predicts sensitivity to single-agent dacetuzumab, and upregulation of the pro-apoptotic and chemosensitizing transcription factor TAp63αa when dacetuzumab is combined with rituximab (R) and gemcitabine (GEM). In prior single-agent dacetuzumab trials, several patients who were immediately treated with GEM after progressing achieved unexpected responses. These observations provided rationale for further analysis of the combination of dacetuzumab, R and GEM. Methods:A phase 1b dose-escalation study to evaluate the safety and adverse event profile of dacetuzumab, R and GEM was conducted in patients with relapsed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Patients received dacetuzumab at cohort-specific doses of 8 or 12 mg/kg IV weekly in combination with R (375 mg/m2 IV for 1 cycle, then once/28-day cycle) and GEM (1000 mg/m2 IV weekly or biweekly) in a 3 + 3 dose-escalation scheme. A maximum number of 8 cycles was permitted. Eligible patients included those with de novo DLBCL, including transformed lymphoma and follicular grade 3, who failed potentially curative therapy. Results:Thirty-one patients with a median age of 68 years (range 29–80) were enrolled and treated in the study (3 patients in each of 3 cohorts + 22 in an expansion cohort). The median number of prior regimens was 3 (range 1–18); 10 patients (32%) had transformed histology and 4 (13%) had prior ASCT. The median number of cycles received was 3 (range 1–8), although 11 patients are still on treatment. Three patients in the first cohort required dose reduction of GEM due to transient, non-dose-limiting thrombocytopenia. The protocol was thus amended to administer GEM on a biweekly schedule. No dose-limiting toxicity was observed, and MTD was not defined. Based on pharmacokinetic modeling suggesting no significant difference in exposure between dose levels, 8 mg/kg of dacetuzumab was chosen as the dose for the expansion cohort. The combination of dacetuzumab, R and GEM was generally well tolerated. Across all cohorts, the most common adverse events (> 15%) were nausea (42%), thrombocytopenia (35%), fatigue (32%), headache (29%), anorexia (19%), dyspnea (19%), pyrexia (19%), diarrhea (16%), and neutropenia (16%), the majority of which were Grade 1 or 2. Grade 3/4 adverse events related to dacetuzumab occurred infrequently. One patient experienced Grade 3 stress cardiomyopathy that resolved; this patient had a history of congestive heart failure. One patient developed pneumonitis in the left lung and acute respiratory distress syndrome, and subsequently died due to pulmonary toxicity; this patient had received prior radiation therapy to the left chest. There was preliminary evidence of antitumor activity. Of the 28 patients with response assessments, 7 patients achieved CR, 8 PR, 7 SD, and 6 PD per investigator assessment of response, yielding an objective response rate of 54%. Of interest, 1 patient who previously failed ASCT achieved a CR and was able to undergo allogeneic transplant. To date, this patient remains in CR. Conclusion:The combination of dacetuzumab, R and biweekly GEM was generally well tolerated. Evidence of antitumor activity with this combination is encouraging as multiple responses were observed in a population with heavily pre-treated patients. Further investigation with a randomized trial is warranted to more fully characterize safety and efficacy and to determine if sensitivity to this combination correlates with the previously identified single-agent predictive gene signature. Disclosures:Forero-Torres:Seattle Genetics, Inc.: Research Funding. Off Label Use: Gemcitabine has not been FDA approved for treatment of lymphoma. Dacetuzumab is an investigational agent.. Bartlett:Seattle Genetics, Inc.: Research Funding. Nasta:Seattle Genetics, Inc.: Research Funding; Genentech: Speakers Bureau. Northfelt:Seattle Genetics, Inc.: Research Funding. Beaven:Seattle Genetics, Inc.: Research Funding. Myint:Seattle Genetics, Inc.: Research Funding. Whiting:Seattle Genetics, Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership. Drachman:Seattle Genetics, Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership. Moskowitz:Seattle Genetics, Inc.: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding.

Absolute Lymphocyte Count Assessed During Routine Follow-up Is a Risk Factor for Relapse Post-Autologous Peripheral Blood Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Patients with Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma.

Abstract 4359Routine serial chimerism analysis after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (Allo-SCT) has been used as a risk factor for post-Allo-SCT cancer relapse. In non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) patients treated with autologous peripheral blood hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (APHSCT), a specific predictor during routine follow-up that could be used to ascertain risk for post-APHSCT relapse has not been identified. Thus, we set out to investigate if absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) measured at post APHSCT follow-up could serve as a marker of post-APHSCT NHL relapse. ALC was obtained at the time of confirmed relapse at follow-up and at last no evidence of relapse follow-up. From 1993 until 2005, 269 patients treated with APHSCT for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), were included in this study. Patients at last follow-up with no relapse (N=137) had a higher ALC compared with those with confirmed relapsed at follow-up post-APHSCT (N= 132) [median ALC x 109/L of 1.66 (range: 0.13-3.69) vs 0.71 (range: 0.03-4.75), p <0.0001, respectively]. ALC at follow-up was a strong predictor for relapse with an area under the curve (AUC) = 0.86 (p<0.0001). An ALC of 1.0 × 109/L was identified as the optimal cut-off point. An ALC < 1.0 × 109/L at the time of confirmed relapse had a positive predictive value of 89% and a positive likelihood ratio of 8.4 to predict relapse post-APHSCT. Patients with an ALC ≥ 1.0 × 109/L (N = 147) had a cumulative incidence of relapse of 19% versus 92% for patients with an ALC < 1.0 × 109/L (N = 122) (p<0.0001) at follow-up post-APHSCT. This study suggests that ALC at follow-up can be used as a marker to assess risk of DLBCL relapse during routine follow-up after APHSCT. Disclosures:No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.