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BACKGROUND: Daratumumab-based combination therapies have shown high rates of complete response (CR) and minimal residual disease negativity in patients with multiple myeloma. However, daratumumab, an IgGκ monoclonal antibody, interferes with electrophoretic techniques making it difficult to reliably define residual disease versus CR, especially in patients with IgGκ multiple myeloma. METHODS: Enrichment with polyclonal sheep antibody-coated magnetic microparticles combined with MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) analysis was used to detect M-proteins in serial samples from newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients treated with daratumumab-based therapy. The performance of the MALDI-TOF MS assay was compared to that of a routine test panel (serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP), immunofixation (IFE) and serum free light chain (FLC)). RESULTS: Comparison of MALDI-TOF MS to SPEP/IFE/FLC showed a concordance of 84.9% (p

The 2016 International Myeloma Working Group consensus recommendations emphasize high-sensitivity methods for minimal residual disease (MRD) detection, treatment response assessment, and prognostication. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) of IGH gene rearrangements is highly specific and sensitive, but its description in routine clinical practice and performance comparison with high-sensitivity flow cytometry (hsFC) remain limited. In this large, single-institution study including 438 samples from 251 patients, the use of NGS targeting the IGH and IGK genes for clonal characterization and monitoring, with comparison to hsFC, is described. The index clone characterization success rate was 93.6% (235/251), which depended on plasma cell (PC) cellularity, reaching 98% when PC ≥10% and below 80% when PC

Purpose: The World Trade Center (WTC) attack of September 11, 2001 created an unprecedented environmental exposure to known and suspected carcinogens. High incidence of multiple myeloma and precursor conditions has been reported among first responders to the WTC disaster. To expand on our prior screening studies, and to characterize the genomic impact of the exposure to known and potential carcinogens in the WTC debris, we were motivated to perform whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of WTC first responders and recovery workers who developed a plasma cell disorder after the attack. Experimental Design: We performed WGS of nine CD138-positive bone marrow mononuclear samples from patients who were diagnosed with plasma cell disorders after the WTC disaster. Results: No significant differences were observed in comparing the post-WTC driver and mutational signature landscapes with 110 previously published WGSs from 56 patients with multiple myeloma and the CoMMpass WGS cohort (n = 752). Leveraging constant activity of the single-base substitution mutational signatures 1 and 5 over time, we estimated that tumor-initiating chromosomal gains were windowed to both pre- and post-WTC exposure. Conclusions: Although limitations in sample size preclude any definitive conclusions, our findings suggest that the observed increased incidence of plasma cell neoplasms in this population is due to complex and heterogeneous effects of the WTC exposure that may have initiated or contributed to progression of malignancy.

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.

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (alloHCT) for multiple myeloma (MM), with its underlying graft-versus-tumor capacity, is a potentially curative approach for high-risk patients. Relapse is the main cause of treatment failure, but predictors for postrelapse survival are not well characterized. We conducted a retrospective analysis to evaluate predictors for postrelapse overall survival (OS) in 60 MM patients who progressed after myeloablative T cell-depleted alloHCT. The median patient age was 56 years, and 82% had high-risk cytogenetics. Patients received a median of 4 lines of therapy pre-HCT, and 88% achieved at least a partial response (PR) before alloHCT. Of the 38% who received preemptive post-HCT therapy, 13 received donor lymphocyte infusions (DLIs) and 10 received other interventions. Relapse was defined as very early ( 24 months; 22%). At relapse, 27% presented with extramedullary disease (EMD). The median postrelapse overall survival (OS) by time to relapse was 4 months for the very early relapse group, 17 months for the early relapse group, and 72 months for the late relapse group (P = .002). Older age, relapse with EMD

Current guidelines for smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) recommend active monitoring until the onset of multiple myeloma (MM) before initiating treatment or enrollment in a clinical trial. Earlier intervention may delay progression to MM. In CENTAURUS, 123 patients with intermediate-risk or high-risk SMM were randomly assigned to daratumumab 16 mg/kg intravenously on extended intense (intense), extended intermediate (intermediate), or short dosing schedules. At the prespecified primary analysis (15.8-month median follow-up), the complete response (CR) rates (co-primary endpoint) were 2.4%, 4.9%, and 0% for intense, intermediate, and short dosing, respectively; the co-primary endpoint of CR rate >15% was not met. Progressive disease (PD)/death rates (number of patients who progressed or died divided by total duration of progression-free survival [PFS] in patient-years; co-primary endpoint) for intense, intermediate, and short dosing were 0.055 (80% confidence interval [CI], 0.014–0.096), 0.102 (80% CI, 0.044–0.160), and 0.206 (80% CI, 0.118–0.295), respectively, translating to a median PFS ≥24 months in all arms (P < 0.0001, P < 0.0001 for all arms). Twenty-four–month PFS rates were 89.9% (90% CI, 78.5–95.4%), 82.0% (90% CI, 69.0–89.9%), and 75.3% (90% CI, 61.1–85.0%) for intense, intermediate, and short dosing, respectively. Pharmacokinetic analyses indicated that intense dosing maintained target-saturating trough concentrations in most patients throughout weekly, every-2-week, and every-4-week dosing periods. No new safety signals were observed. These data provide the basis for an ongoing phase 3 study of daratumumab in SMM.

Summary Background Lenalidomide and bortezomib frontline exposure has raised a growing need for novel treatments for patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. Carfilzomib in combination with daratumumab has shown substantial efficacy with tolerable safety in relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma in a phase 1 study. In this study, we aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of carfilzomib, dexamethasone, and daratumumab versus carfilzomib and dexamethasone in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. Methods In this randomised, multicentre, open-label, phase 3 study, 466 patients recruited from 102 sites across North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma were randomly assigned 2:1 to carfilzomib, dexamethasone, and daratumumab (KdD) or carfilzomib and dexamethasone (Kd). All patients received twice per week carfilzomib at 56 mg/m2 (20 mg/m2; days 1 and 2 during cycle 1). Daratumumab (8 mg/kg) was administered intravenously on days 1 and 2 of cycle 1 and at 16 mg/kg weekly for the remaining doses of the first two cycles, then every 2 weeks for four cycles (cycles 3–6), and every 4 weeks thereafter. Patients received 40 mg dexamethasone weekly (20 mg for patients ≥75 years old starting on the second week). The primary endpoint was progression-free survival assessed by intention to treat. Adverse events were assessed in the safety population. This trial (NCT03158688) is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, and is active but not recruiting. Findings Between June 13, 2017, and June 25, 2018, 466 patients of 569 assessed for eligibility were enrolled. After median follow-up of approximately 17 months, median progression-free survival was not reached in the KdD group versus 15·8 months in the Kd group (hazard ratio 0·63; 95% CI 0·46–0·85; p=0·0027). Median treatment duration was longer in the KdD versus the Kd group (70·1 vs 40·3 weeks). Grade 3 or higher adverse events were reported in 253 (82%) patients in the KdD group and 113 (74%) patients in the Kd group. The frequency of adverse events leading to treatment discontinuation was similar in both groups (KdD, 69 [22%]; Kd, 38 [25%]). Interpretation KdD significantly prolonged progression-free survival versus Kd in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma and was associated with a favourable benefit–risk profile. Funding Amgen.

Background Current measurements of multiple myeloma disease burden are suboptimal. Daratumumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets CD38, an antigen expressed on nearly all myeloma cells. Purpose To demonstrate preclinical and first-in-human application of an antibody composed of the native daratumumab labeled with the positron-emitting radionuclide zirconium 89 (89Zr) through the chelator deferoxamine (DFO), or 89Zr-DFO-daratumumab, for immunologic PET imaging of multiple myeloma. Materials and Methods 89Zr-DFO-daratumumab was synthesized by conjugating 89Zr to daratumumab with DFO. A murine xenograft model using CD38-positive OPM2 multiple myeloma cells was used to evaluate CD38-specificity of 89Zr-DFO-daratumumab. Following successful preclinical imaging, a prospective phase I study of 10 patients with multiple myeloma was performed. Study participants received 74 MBq (2 mCi) of intravenous 89Zr-DFO-daratumumab. Each participant underwent four PET/CT scans over the next 8 days, as well as blood chemistry and whole-body counts, to determine safety, tracer biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, and radiation dosimetry. Because 89Zr has a half-life of 78 hours, only a single administration of tracer was needed to obtain all four PET/CT scans. Results 89Zr-DFO-daratumumab was synthesized with radiochemical purity greater than 99%. In the murine model, substantial bone marrow uptake was seen in OPM2 mice but not in healthy mice, consistent with CD38-targeted imaging of OPM2 multiple myeloma cells. In humans, 89Zr-DFO-daratumumab was safe and demonstrated acceptable dosimetry. 89Zr-DFO-daratumumab uptake was visualized at PET in sites of osseous myeloma. Conclusion These data demonstrate successful CD38-targeted immunologic PET imaging of multiple myeloma in a murine model and in humans. © RSNA, 2020 Online supplemental material is available for this article.

Despite ongoing therapeutic advances, multiple myeloma (MM) remains largely incurable, and outcomes in patients who develop resistance to immunomodulatory drugs or proteasome inhibitors remain grim. Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (alloHCT) is an alternative option that may offer potential for cure. Although rates of transplantation-related morbidity and mortality have decreased in recent years, weighing this approach's potential benefits against nontransplantation therapies demands a thoroughly informed pre-alloHCT assessment. Here we assess the impact of pre-alloHCT variables on important clinical outcomes in a large cohort of relapsed refractory MM (RRMM) CD34+-selected alloHCT recipients. We included all patients with MM who underwent CD34+-selected alloHCT at our center between June 2010 and December 2015. Patients were conditioned with busulfan (0.8 mg/kg × 10), melphalan (70 mg/m2 × 2), and fludarabine (25 mg/m2 × 5), followed by infusion of a CD34+-selected peripheral blood stem cell graft, without post-alloHCT graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis. The 73-patient cohort had a median age of 55 years (range, 37 to 66 years). Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) rates were 70% and 53%, respectively, at 1 year (95% confidence interval [CI], 58% to 79% and 41% to 64%) and 50% and 30%, respectively, at 3 years (95% CI, 38% to 62% and 19% to 41%). The cumulative incidence of relapse was 25% at 1 year (95% CI, 15% to 35%) and 47% at 3 years (95% CI, 35% to 58%). Nonrelapse mortality at 1 year was 22% (95% CI, 13% to 32%). The cumulative incidence of grade II-IV acute GVHD (aGVHD) was 7% at 100 days (95% CI, 3% to 14%), and that of any chronic GVHD (cGVHD) was 8% at 1 year (95% CI, 3% to 16%). International Staging System (ISS) stage II-III assessed before salvage therapy was associated with poorer 3-year OS (30% versus 54%; P = .037) and 3-year PFS (9% versus 33%; P = .013), and increased 3-year relapse incidence (72% versus 39%; P = .004). Older age and GVHD before 6 months (aGVHD grade II-IV or cGVHD of any grade) were also associated with poorer OS, and a greater number of pre-alloHCT lines of therapy was also associated with increased relapse incidence. Our findings reinforce that CD34+-selected alloHCT can achieve prolonged disease control and long-term survival in high- risk, heavily treated refractory MM populations. We also identified numerous pre-alloHCT variables associated with OS, PFS, and relapse. Amongst these, presalvage ISS stage II-III was consistently associated with poorer survival and relapse outcomes. Given the lack of established alternate therapies for patients with RRMM, we advocate the identification of adverse pre-alloHCT variables to inform alloHCT decision making rather than to exclude patient cohorts from this potentially curative treatment option.

Background Therapeutic advances have greatly extended survival times in patients with multiple myeloma, necessitating increasingly lengthy trials when using survival outcomes as primary endpoints. A surrogate endpoint that can more rapidly predict survival could accelerate drug development. We conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate minimal residual disease (MRD) status as a valid progression-free survival (PFS) surrogate in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). Materials and Methods We searched abstracts in PubMed, The American Society of Hematology, and the European Hematology Association for “myeloma,” “minimal residual disease,” and “clinical trial.” Because of the need to evaluate the treatment effect on MRD response, only randomized studies for subjects with NDMM were included. Details on the MRD-tested populations were required. The meta-analysis was performed by principles outlined at the 2013 United States Food and Drug Administration workshop on MRD in acute myeloid leukemia. 42 For samples that were not measured for MRD and within the subset specified for MRD assessment, their MRD status was imputed from the samples that had known MRD status. Patients that were excluded from planned MRD assessment were considered MRD-positive. Results Six randomized studies, representing 3283 patients and 2208 MRD samples, met analysis inclusion criteria. MRD negativity rates ranged from 0.06 to 0.70. The treatment effect on the odds ratio for MRD-negative response strongly correlated with the hazard ratio for PFS with a coefficient of determination for the weighted regression line of 0.97. Our meta-analysis suggested that MRD status met both the Prentice criteria for PFS surrogacy. Conclusions These results support the claim that MRD status can be used as a surrogate for PFS in NDMM.

Multiple myeloma (MM) patients have increased risk of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) when infected by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), the precursor of MM has been associated with immune dysfunction which may lead to severe COVID-19. No systematic data have been published on COVID-19 in individuals with MGUS. We conducted a large population-based cohort study evaluating the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe COVID-19 among individuals with MGUS. We included 75,422 Icelanders born before 1976, who had been screened for MGUS in the Iceland Screens Treats or Prevents Multiple Myeloma study (iStopMM). Data on SARS-CoV-2 testing and COVID-19 severity were acquired from the Icelandic COVID-19 Study Group. Using a test-negative study design, we included 32,047 iStopMM participants who had been tested for SARS-CoV-2, of whom 1754 had MGUS. Among these participants, 1100 participants, tested positive, 65 of whom had MGUS. Severe COVID-19 developed in 230 participants, including 16 with MGUS. MGUS was not associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection (Odds ratio (OR): 1.05; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.81–1.36; p = 0.72) or severe COVID-19 (OR: 0.99; 95%CI: 0.52–1.91; p = 0.99). These findings indicate that MGUS does not affect the susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 or the severity of COVID-19.

Objective To evaluate temporal trends in survival and causes of death in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in a nationwide study. Methods The cohort consisted of 13,009 Swedish CLL patients diagnosed 1982-2013. Relative survival (RS) and excess mortality rate ratios (EMRR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were estimated using flexible parametric survival models. Cause-specific hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated for the linear effect of 10-year increase in year of diagnosis. Results The excess mortality decreased comparing 2003-2013 to 1982-1992 (EMRR=0.53, 95% CI 0.48-0.58,). The 5-year RS increased between 1982 and 2012 for patients > 51 years at diagnosis and improved for patients ≤ 51 years after 2002. The rate of CLL-specific deaths decreased over time (HR=0.78, 95% CI 0.75-0.81). Compared to patients with no comorbidity, patients with 1 and 2+ Charlson Comorbidity Index points had HR=1.35 (95% CI 1.25-1.45) and HR=1.47 (95% CI 1.37-1.57) for CLL-related mortality, respectively. Conclusion Survival in CLL patients improved in the era of chemoimmunotherapy and this was largely explained by reduced CLL-related mortality. The increased rate of CLL-related mortality in patients with comorbidities emphasizes the importance of the newer and better tolerated targeted therapy.

Importance High-risk smoldering myeloma has a 5-year risk of progression to symptomatic multiple myeloma of approximately 75%. Treatment with lenalidomide decreases the risk of progression; however, novel triplet regimens are superior, and earlier disease may be more treatment sensitive. Objective To evaluate the use of carfilzomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (KRd) with lenalidomide maintenance therapy as early intervention in high-risk smoldering myeloma and to determine the rates of minimal residual disease (MRD)–negative complete response (CR). Design, Setting, and Participants In this single-arm, single-center, phase 2 nonrandomized controlled trial, responses were evaluated at every cycle during KRd treatment and every 3 cycles subsequently. Bone marrow biopsies and imaging were performed by cycle 8 and then annually. The study enrolled patients from May 29, 2012, to July 23, 2020, at the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, a highly specialized tertiary cancer center. Patient key eligibility criteria included a diagnosis of high-risk smoldering myeloma based on the Mayo Clinic, Spanish, and/or Rajkumar, Mateos, and Landgren criteria. Interventions Patients received eight 4-week cycles of intravenous carfilzomib 36 mg/m2(first 2 doses, 20 mg/m2), dexamethasone (20 mg, cycles 1-4; 10 mg, cycles 5-8 twice weekly), and lenalidomide 25 mg (days 1-21) followed by twenty-four 28-day cycles of maintenance lenalidomide 10 mg (days 1-21). Stem cell harvest and storage were optional. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was the MRD-negative CR rate. Key secondary outcomes included duration of MRD-negative CR and progression to multiple myeloma. Results A total of 54 patients (median age, 59 years [range, 40-79 years]; 30 men [55.6%]; and 2 Asian [3.7%], 15 Black [27.8%], 1 Hispanic [1.9%], and 36 White [66.7%] patients) were enrolled, with a median potential follow-up time of 31.9 months (range, 6.7-102.9 months). The MRD-negative CR rate was 70.4% (95% CI, 56.4%-82.0%), with a median sustained duration of 5.5 years (95% CI, 3.7 years to not estimable). The 8-year probability of being free from progression to multiple myeloma was 91.2% (95% CI, 67.4%-97.9%), and no deaths occurred. Nonhematologic grade 3 adverse events occurred in 21 patients (38.9%) and included thromboembolism, rash, and lung infection, with no grade 4 events. Conclusions and Relevance Results of this phase 2 nonrandomized controlled trial suggest that treatment of high-risk smoldering myeloma with novel triplet regimens, such as KRd and lenalidomide maintenance therapy, may alter the natural history of smoldering myeloma by significantly delaying development of end-organ disease. Randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm this favorable benefit-to-risk profile. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:NCT01572480

Background and Scientific Rationale Solitary plasmacytoma of the bone (SPB) is a rare entity representing 5% of all plasma cell dyscrasias. SPB treated with radiation therapy (RT) has a 10% risk of progression to multiple myeloma (MM) over 3 years if there is no marrow involvement, whereas there is a 60% chance of progression over 3 years in patients with minimal marrow involvement. Median time to progression in the latter group is 26 months. Presently, despite mounting evidence of a significant risk of progression to MM, there is no FDA-approved therapy and patients are usually treated with localized RT. This is an area of unmet need. A similar opportunity exists in the setting of MM patients relapsing with localized disease amenable to RT. This group of patients may not immediately require long-term systemic therapy especially if RT combined with epigenetic modulation and lenalidomide results in therapeutically relevant immune responses. A few studies combining lenalidomide and azacitidine have shown responses even in a lenalidomide refractory population with upregulation of cancer testis antigen (CTA) as well as CTA specific T cell responses (Table 1). These synergistic mechanisms focus on: 1) manipulating antigen expression and enhancing antigen presentation (both neoantigens and cancer testis antigens) with oral azacitidine (CC-486), and 2) augmentation of antigen specific immune responses via increased IL2 production leading to an increase in the proliferation of T cells with lenalidomide. This combination with RT would serve to inflame the tumor microenvironment and potentially lead to therapeutically active systemic immune responses via an abscopal effect. Study Design and Methods This is an open-label, single center, single-arm study of CC-486, lenalidomide plus RT, which will enroll a total of 20 patients in two cohorts. Clinical trial registry number NCT04174196, actively recruiting. Study population and inclusion criteria Each cohort will enroll ten patients - Cohort 1: i) Histologically confirmed newly diagnosed solitary plasmacytoma of the bone or lytic bone lesion ii) Minimal marrow involvement (Detectable clonal bone marrow (BM) plasma cells by multicolor flow cytometry and ≤ 10% clonal plasma cells in a BM biopsy by immunohistochemistry, morphology, or flow cytometry) iii) Secretory M protein < 3 g/dL Cohort 2: i) Relapsed multiple myeloma with plasmacytomas appropriate for RT on imaging ii) Relapsed (reappearance of M-spike/serum FLC) or progressive myeloma defined by a 25% increase from nadir in M-spike or involved serum FLC on 2 separate measurements; or with BM involvement by clonal plasma cells detectable by IHC iii) Any prior number of therapies is permitted, including prior RT iv) Allogeneic transplant patients are permitted Statistical methods We estimate the historical rate of stringent complete response (sCR) is approximately 5% (based on the rate for newly diagnosed myeloma with lenalidomide and dexamethasone on the MAIA study of 7.3% and for relapsed myeloma with Rd based on the POLLUX study of 4.6%). The primary endpoint of the study will be reported separately for the two cohorts. With 10 patients in each cohort, the maximum half-width of the exact 95% confidence interval for the response rate is +/- 0.31. A sCR rate of ≥20% would be considered promising for either cohort. Study treatment In the study, patients will be treated with CC-486 100 mg on day 1-21 and lenalidomide 25 mg on day 1-21 for 6 cycles. RT to the plasmacytoma will be initiated after cycle 2. Total dose may vary between 30-50 Gy (45-50 Gy for cohort 1) based on clinical judgement. (Figure 1) Endpoints Primary To provide preliminary efficacy data based on the rate of sCR by 2016 IMWG Criteria on post-treatment BM biopsy and aspirate specimens with no new lesions by PET. Secondary - To assess the safety of this combination. - To estimate the progression free survival and overall survival Exploratory - To evaluate antigen expression at the tumor site pre and post RT - To further characterize the antigen specific T cell response pre and post RT at the tumor site - To assess changes in epigenetic marks - To assess changes in the tumor microenvironment Disclosures Shah: Physicians Education Resource: Honoraria; Celgene/BMS: Research Funding. Mailankody:Juno Therapeutics, a Bristol-Myers Squibb Company: Research Funding; Allogene Therapeutics: Research Funding; Janssen Oncology: Research Funding; Takeda Oncology: Research Funding; PleXus Communications: Honoraria; Physician Education Resource: Honoraria. Korde:Astra Zeneca: Other: Advisory Board; Amgen: Research Funding. Hultcrantz:GSK: Research Funding; Daiichi Sankyo: Research Funding; Amgen: Research Funding; Intellisphere LLC: Consultancy. Smith:Precision Biosciences: Consultancy; Fate Therapeutics: Consultancy; Bristol Myers Squibb: Consultancy, Patents & Royalties, Research Funding. Shah:Janssen Pharmaceutica: Research Funding; Amgen: Research Funding. Lahoud:MorphoSys: Other: Advisory Board. Scordo:McKinsey & Company: Consultancy; Angiocrine Bioscience, Inc.: Consultancy, Research Funding; Omeros Corporation: Consultancy; Kite - A Gilead Company: Other: Ad-hoc advisory board. Dahi:Kite: Consultancy. Chung:Genentech: Research Funding. Hassoun:Novartis: Consultancy; Celgene: Research Funding; Takeda: Research Funding. Barker:Elekta: Research Funding; Amgen: Research Funding; Alpha Tau Medical: Other: Travel expenses, Research Funding; Merck: Research Funding. Giralt:KITE: Consultancy; MILTENYI: Consultancy, Research Funding; OMEROS: Consultancy, Honoraria; CELGENE: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; AMGEN: Consultancy, Research Funding; NOVARTIS: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; JAZZ: Consultancy, Honoraria; ACTINUUM: Consultancy, Research Funding; TAKEDA: Research Funding. Landgren:Adaptive: Consultancy, Honoraria; Takeda: Other: Independent Data Monitoring Committees for clinical trials, Research Funding; BMS: Consultancy, Honoraria; Cellectis: Consultancy, Honoraria; Glenmark: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Juno: Consultancy, Honoraria; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Pfizer: Consultancy, Honoraria; Merck: Other; Karyopharma: Research Funding; Binding Site: Consultancy, Honoraria; BMS: Consultancy, Honoraria; Cellectis: Consultancy, Honoraria; Juno: Consultancy, Honoraria; Pfizer: Consultancy, Honoraria; Merck: Other; Glenmark: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Amgen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Independent Data Monitoring Committees for clinical trials, Research Funding; Takeda: Other: Independent Data Monitoring Committees for clinical trials, Research Funding; Karyopharma: Research Funding; Binding Site: Consultancy, Honoraria; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Independent Data Monitoring Committees for clinical trials, Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding. Lesokhin:Janssen: Research Funding; GenMab: Consultancy, Honoraria; BMS: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Juno: Consultancy, Honoraria; Takeda: Consultancy, Honoraria; Genentech: Research Funding; Serametrix Inc.: Patents & Royalties. OffLabel Disclosure: CC-486 is an is an oral hypomethylating agent that has been studied in acute myeloid leukemia. This study combines CC-486 with lenalidomide and radiation therapy in plasma cell disorders.

Introduction: CANDOR is a multicenter, phase 3, randomized study of adult patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) previously treated with 1-3 prior lines of therapy (NCT03158688). 466 patients received carfilzomib, dexamethasone, and daratumumab (KdD) or carfilzomib and dexamethasone (Kd) in 2:1 randomization (KdD: 312; Kd: 154). Based on the primary endpoint, KdD demonstrated superior progression-free survival (PFS) vs Kd (hazard ratio [HR], 0.63 [95% CI, 0.46-0.85]; P=0.0014). Deep responses and minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity have been associated with improved PFS for patients with RRMM. Herein, we present an analysis of MRD results from CANDOR. Methods: Details of the dose and schedule were previously reported (Dimopoulos et al., Lancet 2020). The rate of patients with confirmed CR which were MRD negative (MRD[-]CR) in bone marrow aspirate at 12 months (± 4 weeks) measured by next-generation sequencing (NGS; threshold, 1 tumor cell/10-5 white blood cells) was a prespecified key secondary endpoint. Exploratory analyses included MRD[-]CR at increasing sensitivity (10-4, 10-5, 10-6) and best overall response MRD[-] status at any time point. All reported responses were by Independent Review Committee and were analyzed for the Intent-to-Treat population. MRD[-] status is at Results: The best overall MRD[-]CR rate at any time was 13.8% vs 3.2% in the KdD vs Kd arm (Odds ratio [OR], 4.95; P At the 12-month landmark, KdD treatment resulted in a greater proportion of CR rates (26.9% vs 9.7%) and deeper MRD responses than Kd. Among patients in CR, the depth of response as measured by NGS MRD level at the 12-month landmark was deeper for KdD relative to Kd: cutoff of >10-4, 36.9% vs 73.3%; 10-4 to 10-5, 16.7% vs 13.3%; 10-5 to 10-6, 23.8% vs 13.3%; Additional post hoc analyses were conducted within patients randomized to KdD to explore prognostic characteristics for MRD[-]CR. Importantly, prior lenalidomide exposure did not meaningfully impact the MRD[-]CR rate at the 12-month landmark; 13.2% (25/189), 11.4% (14/123), and 13.1% (13/99) for naïve, exposed, and refractory subgroups, respectively. For prior bortezomib, the MRD[-]CR rates were 24% (6/25), 11.5% (33/287), and 6.8% (6/88) for naïve, exposed, and refractory subgroups, respectively. The rates of MRD[-]CR at the 12- month landmark within the KdD arm were consistent across subgroups: patients refractory to the last prior therapy (yes vs no, 10.9% vs 14.3%), number of prior regimens (1-2 vs 3 prior regimens; 13.2% vs 10.1%), prior transplant (yes vs no, 11.8% vs 13.7%), duration of first remission (≤2 vs >2 years, 12.3% vs 13% and ≤1 vs >1 year, 10.7% vs 13.4%), baseline creatinine clearance (≥15 to 75 years, 12.9% vs 8.0%), or dose intensity (< vs ≥ median) for carfilzomib or daratumumab (10.5% vs 14.9% and 9.8% vs 15.6%, respectively). Data on cytogenetics will be included at the time of presentation. Conclusion: At the primary analysis, patients treated with KdD achieved significantly higher MRD[-]CR rates vs Kd at the 12-month landmark. Among patients with an MRD[-]CR, the depth of MRD was deeper with KdD vs Kd. With a median of 6 months follow-up, no patient with an MRD[-]CR has progressed; duration of response will be updated at time of presentation. Within the KdD arm, lenalidomide exposure or refractoriness did not diminish the MRD[-]CR rate. These findings support the efficacy of the KdD regimen as an effective treatment for RRMM, including patients who have become lenalidomide refractory. Disclosures Landgren: Adaptive: Consultancy, Honoraria; Amgen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Pfizer: Consultancy, Honoraria; Juno: Consultancy, Honoraria; Cellectis: Consultancy, Honoraria; BMS: Consultancy, Honoraria; Binding Site: Consultancy, Honoraria; Karyopharma: Research Funding; Merck: Other; Pfizer: Consultancy, Honoraria; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Juno: Consultancy, Honoraria; Glenmark: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Cellectis: Consultancy, Honoraria; BMS: Consultancy, Honoraria; Takeda: Other: Independent Data Monitoring Committees for clinical trials, Research Funding; Binding Site: Consultancy, Honoraria; Karyopharma: Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Independent Data Monitoring Committees for clinical trials, Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Glenmark: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Takeda: Other: Independent Data Monitoring Committees for clinical trials, Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Independent Data Monitoring Committees for clinical trials, Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Merck: Other. Weisel:Roche: Consultancy, Honoraria; Amgen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Sanofi: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Consultancy, Honoraria; Adaptive: Consultancy, Honoraria; GlaxoSmithKline: Honoraria; Karyopharm: Consultancy, Honoraria; Takeda: Consultancy, Honoraria; Abbvie: Consultancy, Honoraria. Rosinol Dachs:Janssen: Honoraria; Celgene: Honoraria; Amgen: Honoraria; Takeda: Honoraria; Sanofi: Honoraria. Moreau:Sanofi: Consultancy, Honoraria; Amgen: Consultancy, Honoraria; Celgene/Bristol-Myers Squibb: Consultancy, Honoraria; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria; Novartis: Honoraria; Takeda: Honoraria; Abbvie: Consultancy, Honoraria. Hajek:PharmaMar: Consultancy, Honoraria; Takeda: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Abbvie: Consultancy, Honoraria; Oncopeptides: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy, Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Amgen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; BMS: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding. Mollee:Janssen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; BMS/Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Amgen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Takeda: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Pfizer: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Caelum: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Kim:Alexion Pharmaceuticals Inc.: Honoraria, Research Funding. Zhang:Amgen: Current Employment. Go:Amgen: Current Employment. Morris:Amgen: Current Employment. Usmani:Celgene: Other; Takeda: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Speaking Fees, Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Speaking Fees, Research Funding; SkylineDX: Consultancy, Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Consultancy, Research Funding; Merck: Consultancy, Research Funding; Incyte: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics: Research Funding; Array Biopharma: Research Funding; GSK: Consultancy, Research Funding; Sanofi: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Abbvie: Consultancy; BMS, Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Speaking Fees, Research Funding; Amgen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Speaking Fees, Research Funding.

Introduction The current standard to assess chemotherapy tolerability and health related quality of life (HRQOL) relies on patient (PT) self-reporting. Continuous passive monitoring using mobile wearable devices can objectively aggregate and monitor "activity" over long periods of time without potential reporting bias. Due to the nature of the disease, multiple myeloma (MM) PTs are often ridden with bone disease and pain, thereby limiting activity while impacting HRQOL. In this prospective clinical study, we enrolled 40 newly diagnosed MM PTs and remotely monitored their activity (steps/24 hrs) while administering electronic PT reported outcome (ePRO) surveys at baseline (BL) and through induction therapy. The study aim was to assess whether wearables can establish patterns of physical activity while receiving therapy and how these activity bioprofiles correlate with HRQOL outcomes. Methods PTs were eligible for the study if they had newly diagnosed MM, not having received any systemic therapy, and if they owned a device (iOS or Android) compatible with Garmin Vivofit® (GV) device. Regimens were determined by treating physicians. PTs were given GV® devices and asked to download a GV® application and Medidata ePRO app. PTs were assigned to either Cohort A - PTs VGPR Responders (Res) vs. < PR Sub-responders (Sub-Res). Associations between physical activity measurements, QLQC30 and MY20 scores, and time from the start of treatment were estimated using a linear mixed model with a random intercept. A Wald-test was used to compute p-values for the significance of association. Results Between Feb 2017 and Sep 2019, 40 PTs (21 M and 19 F) were enrolled with 20 in cohort A (mean 54 yrs, 41-64) and 20 in cohort B (mean 71 yrs, 65-82). Treatment regimens included KRd 14(35%), RVd 12(30%), Dara-KRd 8(20%), VCd 5(12.5%), and Rd 1(2.5%). Activity bioprofiles were compiled among 24/40(60%) PTs: 14 full sets (7/7 cycle periods) and 10 partial sets [1 PT - 2/7(28.5%) cycle periods; 2 PTs - 3/7(42.8%); 1 PT - 4/7(57.1%); 2 PTs- 5/7(71.4%); 4 PTs 6/7(85.7%)]. PT activity increased over time by 179 steps/24 hrs per cycle (p=0.001, 95% CI: 68-289) for the entire study. Mean activity pre- vs. post- for cohort A was 6,041 vs. 7,266 steps/24 hrs, respectively with an increase of 116 steps/24 hrs per cycle (p=0.2, 95% CI: -60-293), and for cohort B 2,984 steps/24 hrs vs. 5,007 steps/24 hrs with an increase of 260 steps/24 hrs per cycle (p PTs reported improvement in ePRO MY20 disease burden symptoms over time, -1.6 score/cycle (p=0.001, 95% CI -2.6- -0.6). There was no observed change in time over self-body image (p=0.5), while PTs reported worsening of future perspective, -2.8 score/cycle (p Conclusion Our study demonstrates that passive wearable monitoring can successfully capture PT activity in newly diagnosed MM, and that PT activity bioprofiles correlate well with traditional HRQOL measurements. Of clinical relevance, our study shows that activity bioprofiles improve with therapy, regardless of depth of response. Significant gains in activity were attributable to the older cohort, suggesting a greater functional impact at BL in this population. Future studies are needed to elucidate how mobile wearables may aid the clinician in passive monitoring of therapy tolerability in the outpatient setting. Figure 1 Disclosures Korde: Amgen: Research Funding; Astra Zeneca: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Mailankody:PleXus Communications: Honoraria; Juno Therapeutics, a Bristol-Myers Squibb Company: Research Funding; Allogene Therapeutics: Research Funding; Janssen Oncology: Research Funding; Takeda Oncology: Research Funding; Physician Education Resource: Honoraria. Hassoun:Novartis: Consultancy; Celgene: Research Funding; Takeda: Research Funding. Lesokhin:Takeda: Consultancy, Honoraria; GenMab: Consultancy, Honoraria; Serametrix Inc.: Patents & Royalties; BMS: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Janssen: Research Funding; Juno: Consultancy, Honoraria; Genentech: Research Funding. Lendvai:Janssen: Current Employment. Smith:Bristol Myers Squibb: Consultancy, Patents & Royalties, Research Funding; Fate Therapeutics: Consultancy; Precision Biosciences: Consultancy. Hultcrantz:Daiichi Sankyo: Research Funding; GSK: Research Funding; Intellisphere LLC: Consultancy; Amgen: Research Funding. Shah:Physicians Education Resource: Honoraria; Celgene/BMS: Research Funding. Shah:Amgen: Research Funding; Janssen Pharmaceutica: Research Funding. Giralt:Jazz: Research Funding; Kite: Research Funding; Actinuum: Research Funding; CSL Behring: Research Funding; Pfizer: Research Funding; Quintiles: Research Funding; Janssen: Research Funding; Amgen: Research Funding; Sanofi: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Adienne: Research Funding. Landgren:Adaptive: Consultancy, Honoraria; Amgen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Independent Data Monitoring Committees for clinical trials, Research Funding; Takeda: Other: Independent Data Monitoring Committees for clinical trials, Research Funding; Glenmark: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Independent Data Monitoring Committees for clinical trials, Research Funding; Karyopharma: Research Funding; Binding Site: Consultancy, Honoraria; Takeda: Other: Independent Data Monitoring Committees for clinical trials, Research Funding; BMS: Consultancy, Honoraria; Cellectis: Consultancy, Honoraria; Glenmark: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Juno: Consultancy, Honoraria; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Pfizer: Consultancy, Honoraria; Merck: Other; Karyopharma: Research Funding; Binding Site: Consultancy, Honoraria; BMS: Consultancy, Honoraria; Cellectis: Consultancy, Honoraria; Juno: Consultancy, Honoraria; Pfizer: Consultancy, Honoraria; Merck: Other.

Patients with multiple myeloma (MM) who achieve minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity after upfront treatment have superior outcomes compared with those who remain MRD+. Recently, associations have been shown between specific commensal microbes and development of plasma cell disorders. Here, we report the association between intestinal microbiota composition and treatment outcome in MM. Microbiota composition of fecal samples collected from 34 MM patients after induction therapy and at the time of flow cytometry–based bone marrow MRD testing was determined by 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing. We observed a higher relative abundance of Eubacterium hallii in the 16 MRD− patients relative to the 18 MRD+ patients. No association was observed between microbial relative abundance and autologous stem cell transplantation history or MM paraprotein isotype. No differences in microbiota α diversity were observed between MRD− and MRD+ patients. The potential association of microbiota composition with treatment response in MM patients is an important parameter for additional correlative and clinical investigation.

Twice-weekly carfilzomib (27 mg/m2 ) with lenalidomide-dexamethasone (KRd) is a standard-of-care in relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). This phase 1b study evaluated KRd with once-weekly carfilzomib in RRMM. Patients received carfilzomib (30-minute infusion; 56 or 70mg/m2 ) on days 1, 8, and 15; lenalidomide 25 mg on days 1-21; and dexamethasone 40 mg on days 1, 8, 15, and 22 (day 22 omitted for cycles 9+) of 28-day cycles. Primary objective was safety/tolerability; efficacy was a secondary objective. Fifty-six RRMM patients enrolled: 22 during dose evaluation (56-mg/m2 , n = 10; 70-mg/m2 , n = 12) and 34 during dose expansion (all initiated dosing at 70 mg/m2 ). After 2 fatal adverse events (AEs) during 70-mg/m2 dose expansion, dosage reduction to 56 mg/m2 was permitted. Results are presented for carfilzomib 56-mg/m2 (n = 10) and 70-mg/m2 groups (dose evaluation/expansion; n = 46). Median carfilzomib dose was 53.2 mg/m2 (56-mg/m2 group) and 62.4 mg/m2 (70-mg/m2 group). Grade ≥3 AE rates were 70.0% (56 mg/m2 ) and 69.6% (70 mg/m2 ). Overall response rates were 90.0% (56 mg/m2 ) and 89.1% (70 mg/m2 ); ≥very good partial response rates were 50.0% (56 mg/m2 ) and 73.9% (70 mg/m2 ). Once-weekly KRd was active with acceptable toxicity in RRMM, supporting further evaluation of this regimen.

Background High-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) are integral components of the overall treatment for patients with multiple myeloma (MM) aged ≤ 65 years. The emergence of oligoclonal immunoglobulin bands (ie, immunoglobulins differing from those originally identified at diagnosis [termed clonal isotype switch (CIS)]) has been reported in patients with MM after high-dose chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplantation. However, the clinical relevance and the correlation with immune reconstitution remains unclear. Patients and Methods Patients with MM who had undergone ASCT from 2007 to 2016 were included in the present study. The percentage of natural killer cells, B-cells, and T-cells was measured using flow cytometry in pre- and post-ASCT bone marrow samples. CIS was defined as the appearance of a new serum monoclonal spike on serum protein electrophoresis and immunofixation that differed from original heavy or light chain detected at diagnosis. Results A retrospective analysis of 177 patients with MM who had undergone ASCT detected CIS in 39 (22%). CIS after ASCT correlated with improved progression-free survival (52.2 vs. 36.6 months; P = .21) and overall survival (75.1 vs. 65.4 months; P = .021). Patients with a relapse had an isotype that differed from a CIS, confirming the benign nature of this phenomenon. CIS was also associated with lower CD8 T-cell percentages and a greater CD4/CD8 ratio (2.8 vs. 0.2; P = .001) compared with patients who did not demonstrate a CIS, suggestive of more profound T-cell immune reconstitution in this group. Conclusion Taken together, our data have demonstrated that a CIS is a benign phenomenon and correlates with a reduced disease burden and enriched immune repertoire beyond the B-cell compartment.

Parental longevity is associated with an increased life expectancy; results with regard to specific diseases are conflicting. There are limited data focusing on host characteristics and their effect on survival among multiple myeloma (MM) patients and individuals with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). Therefore, our aim was to evaluate the impact of parental longevity on survival of patients with MM and MGUS. A total of 4675 patients with MM, 6812 MGUS patients and 13 398 population-based controls for MM as well as 19 110 controls for MGUS, from 1988 to 2013, were included in the study. Longevity was defined as >90 years of age. Among MM patients, parental longevity was associated with a decreased risk of death [hazard ratio (HR) = 0·92, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0·84–0·99] and the same was true for MGUS patients (HR = 0·87, 95% CI 0·78–0·96). Having one long lived parent significantly decreased the risk of death in both groups, but was not statistically significant when both parents exceeded 90 years of age. In conclusion, parental longevity decreases the risk of death for patients with MM and MGUS which may reflect the importance of the host's genetic and environmental factors in relation to survival. (Less)

Caucasian Americans (CA) compared with African Americans (AA) have a twofold increased incidence of multiple myeloma (MM) and have an earlier age of diagnosis. However, there is sparse information regarding underlying biological differences across racial/ethnic groups. We characterized genetic alterations using a targeted next-generation sequencing assay called myTYPE, developed at MSKCC, allowing capture of somatic mutations, IgH translocations, gains/losses, and hyperdiploidy. Samples were obtained from the NIH Plasma Cell Dyscrasia Racial Disparity Cohort. In total, 68 patient samples were successfully sequenced and manually curated based on well-established databases. Of the 68 patient samples (47 CA, 21 AA), 84% had at least one type of genomic alteration. Importantly, the IgH translocation, t(11;14), was observed more frequently in the AA group (0 vs. 29%, p = 0.001). Known oncogenic somatic non-synonymous mutations were found in 18 genes and indels in 2 genes. KRAS mutations were the most common mutation found in 16% of patients followed by NRAS and BRAF mutations. TP53 somatic mutations appeared to be more common in CA but lacked significance. This proof-of-principle study indicates the presence of varying underlying tumor biology between racial groups and supports the need of future prospective trials to capture these molecular characteristics.

High proportion of patients with multiple myeloma suffer from comorbidities which may alter clinical management. Therefore, our aims were to evaluate the prevalence of comorbidities and their impact on survival. We included patients diagnosed with multiple myeloma 1990-2013 in Sweden and all diagnoses from each patient from 1985. A total of 13 656 patients with multiple myeloma were included in the study, thereof 7404 (54%) had comorbidity at diagnosis. The risk of death was increased for those with one comorbidity at diagnosis compared to those without any comorbidity (hazard ratio = 1.19; 95% confidence interval:1.14-1.25); this risk was higher for those with two (1.38; 1.30-1.47) and three or more comorbidities (1.72; 1.62-1.83). Furthermore, the risk of death was increased in patients with prior history of cancer, arrhythmia, heart failure, diabetes mellitus, cerebrovascular disease, chronic lung disease, psychological disease, peptic ulcer, neurological disease, peripheral vascular disease, chronic kidney disease, dementia, and inflammatory bowel disease. This large study shows that over 50% of multiple myeloma patients have a comorbidity at diagnosis and survival decreased with increasing numbers of comorbidities. This emphasizes the importance of comorbidities when evaluating patients and deciding on treatment strategies for individuals with multiple myeloma.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine risk factors for development of acute myeloid leukemia/myelodysplastic syndromes (AML/MDS) in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). Methods: We identified all patients diagnosed with MM in Sweden from January 1st, 1958 to December 31, 2011. A total of 26 627 patients were diagnosed with MM with during the study period. Of these, 124 patients (0.5%) developed subsequent AML/MDS. For each patient with MM and a subsequent AML/MDS diagnosis, we randomly selected a matched (age, sex, and date of MM diagnosis) MM patient without a subsequent second malignancy diagnosis. Results: The cumulative melphalan exposure was significantly higher (OR = 2.8, 95% CI 1.7-5.2; P

Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is the asymptomatic precursor of multiple myeloma (MM). Lytic bone lesions and fractures are hallmarks of MM and although there are no lytic lesions in MGUS, it has also been associated with fractures. The causes of fractures in MGUS are currently unclear but potential causes include inherent MGUS bone disease, undiagnosed MM, and peripheral neuropathy (PN). We therefore conducted a large population-based study including 8395 individuals with MGUS and 30 851 matched controls from Sweden.Data on fractures, PN, and confounders were acquired from high-quality registers in Sweden.Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and PN were independently associated with fractures (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.29; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.21-1.37; P .001 and HR: 1.34; 95% CI: 1.16-1.55; P .001). Imminent MGUS progression increased the risk of fractures (odds ratio: 1.66; 95% CI: 1.27-2.16; P .001). Fractures were not associated with long-term risk of MGUS progression (HR: 1.08; 95% CI: 0.77-1.53; P = .64).Based on these findings, we speculate that MGUS leads to fractures through at least 3 independent mechanisms: undetected MGUS progression to MM, MGUS inherent bone disease, and PN through falls. These findings highlight the need for further study of MGUS inherent bone disease and can inform further research into fracture prevention in MGUS.

Background Plasma cell disorders (PCDs) are chronic incurable conditions with an opportunity to positively impact outcomes with nutritional changes. Epidemiologic studies show that inflammatory/insulinemic diets are linked to PCDs (Lee IJC 2020), while vegetarians/vegans have a reduced risk (Key AJCN 2014). MGUS/SMM present a unique opportunity for early intervention, given the standard of care is observation. Though patients often inquire about the role of nutrition and whether they should alter habits to eat healthfully, their oncologists are frequently not prepared to address these concerns. The purpose of this survey was to provide insights into patient nutrition perceptions/practices and identify areas for further research. Methods We utilized HealthTree® Cure Hub (HealthTree® Foundation, Lehi, Utah, USA) and invited participants with PCDs to answer questions pertaining to their diet/nutrition and related experience with their oncologist in an online survey. De-identified aggregated responses were reviewed. Results Of 421 participants, 82% reported having dietary questions post-diagnosis, yet 23% stated this was not addressed by their oncologists despite asking. Among those who discussed it with their oncologist, 50% received no specific advice or were recommended a ‘balanced diet’ lacking details. Of the participants that received clear guidance from their oncologists, 88% attempted to follow it, reflecting the positive influence their oncologists can have. Lack of knowledge/conflicting advice were barriers to change for 23%. Although the American Institute of Cancer Research (AICR) has published dietary guidelines, only 34% were aware of them. Patients also more frequently reported following a healthier diet after diagnosis – 75% pre-diagnosis vs 88% post-diagnosis. 78% patients with unhealthy diets pre-diagnosis improved their diet post-diagnosis and 7% with healthy diets pre-diagnosis worsened their diet post-diagnosis. Post-diagnosis, more patients reported consuming whole fruits and vegetables ≥1 times/day and whole grains and seafood ≥3 times/week. Post-diagnosis dietary changes were based on online/media information and advice from non-medical friends in 47%, compared to advice from PCPs/oncologists/nutritionists in 22%. Conclusions Patients with PCDs are interested in dietary advice and make dietary changes when faced with a cancer diagnosis. Most patients currently receive this advice from non-medical sources and report barriers related to lack of consistent information. Oncologists who provide clear guidance can positively impact dietary changes among patients. Our results reflect a missed opportunity between patients’ need for dietary advice and the potential for oncologists to provide helpful counsel. Our findings highlight a need for further research into standardized guideline (AICR) implementation as well as for the development of PCD-specific guidelines. Further disease focused dietary studies are needed to fill this gap.

Background Lenalidomide maintenance improves progression-free survival for patients with multiple myeloma, although its optimal duration is unknown. Clearance of minimal residual disease (MRD) in the bone marrow results in superior outcomes, although its attainment or sustainment does not alter clinical decision-making. Studies that have evaluated MRD serially are limited in length. We therefore aimed to evaluate longitudinal changes in MRD-status (dynamics) and their association with progression-free survival in patients with multiple myeloma.In this single-centre, single-arm, phase 2 study, we enrolled patients aged 18 years and older from the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (New York, NY, USA) who had newly diagnosed multiple myeloma following unrestricted frontline therapy and an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status of 2 or lower, including patients who started maintenance before study enrolment. All participants received lenalidomide maintenance at 10 mg for 21 days of 28-day cycles until progression or unacceptable toxic effects for up to 5 years on protocol. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival at 60 months per protocol and key secondary endpoints were MRD rates after completion of the 12th, 24th, and 36th cycle of maintenance and the association between progression-free survival and annual measurement of MRD status. MRD was assessed from first-pull bone marrow aspirates at baseline and annually by flow cytometry per International Myeloma Working Group criteria, (limit of detection of at least 1 × 10Between Sept 8, 2015, and Jan 25, 2019, 108 patients (100 evaluable for the primary endpoint) were enrolled. Median follow-up was 40·7 months (95% CI 38·7-45·0). At 60 months, progression-free survival was 64% (95% CI 52-79). Median progression-free survival was unreached (95% CI unreached-unreached). MRD dynamics were assessed using 340 MRD assessments done over 5 years for 103 evaluable patients. Patients who sustained MRD negativity for 2 years (n=34) had no recorded disease progression at median 19·8 months (95% CI 15·8-22·3) past the 2-year maintenance landmark. By contrast, patients who lost their MRD-negative responses (n=10) were more likely to progress than those with sustained MRD negativity (HR infinite; p0·0001) and those with persistent MRD positivity (HR 5·88, 95% CI 1·18-33·33; p=0·015) at the 2-year landmark. Haematological and non-haematological serious adverse events occurred in 19 patients (18%). The most common adverse events of grade 3 or worse were decreased lymphocyte count in 48 (44%) patients and decreased neutrophil count in 47 (44%) patients. One death occurred on study due to sepsis and heart failure and was considered unrelated to the study drug.Serial measurements of MRD allow for dynamic assessment of risk for disease progression. Early intervention should be investigated for patients with loss of MRD negativity. Sustained MRD positivity is not categorically an unfavourable outcome and might portend prolonged stability of low-level disease.Memorial Sloan Kettering and Celgene.

Multiple myeloma (MM) progression is characterized by the seeding of cancer cells in different anatomic sites. To characterize this evolutionary process, we interrogated, by whole genome sequencing, 25 samples collected at autopsy from 4 patients with relapsed MM and an additional set of 125 whole exomes collected from 51 patients. Mutational signatures analysis showed how cytotoxic agents introduce hundreds of unique mutations in each surviving cancer cell, detectable by bulk sequencing only in cases of clonal expansion of a single cancer cell bearing the mutational signature. Thus, a unique, single-cell genomic barcode can link chemotherapy exposure to a discrete time window in a patient's life. We leveraged this concept to show that MM systemic seeding is accelerated at relapse and appears to be driven by the survival and subsequent expansion of a single myeloma cell following treatment with high-dose melphalan therapy and autologous stem cell transplant.

Introduction Multiple myeloma (MM) patients have an increased risk of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) when infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) precedes MM and related disorders and affects 4.2% of the general population over the age of 50 years. MM and MGUS are associated with immune dysfunction that is believed to contribute to the development of severe COVID-19. Currently, no systematic data on MGUS and COVID-19 have been published. We conducted a large population-based cohort study to evaluate whether MGUS was associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection and the development of severe COVID-19. Methods Data on all SARS-CoV-2 test results and COVID-19 severity was acquired from the COVID-19 Outpatient Clinic at Landspitali - The National University Hospital of Iceland. The first case of COVID-19 in Iceland was diagnosed on February 28 th, 2020. Since then, the Icelandic authorities have followed an aggressive strategy of SARS-CoV-2 testing and contact tracing. All SARS-CoV-2-positive individuals were immediately contacted and those with active infection were enrolled into telehealth monitoring consisting of repeated standardized interviews conducted by a nurse or physician. If clinical deterioration was detected, patients were assessed in person at the COVID-19 Outpatient Clinic and admitted if needed. Study participants were included from the Iceland Screens Treats or Prevents Multiple Myeloma study (iStopMM). The study is an ongoing population-based screening study for MGUS and randomized trial of follow-up strategies. Out of the 148,708 Icelanders who were born 1976 and earlier and were alive on September 9 th 2016, 80,759 (54%) provided informed consent for study participation and 75,422 (94%) of those provided a blood sample for MGUS screening by serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) and free light chain (FLC) assay. MGUS was determined by current criteria using SPEP and FLC assay data. Individuals who had died, been diagnosed with MM and related disorders, or were undergoing treatment for smoldering MM prior to February 28 th were excluded. First, the association of MGUS and testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 was evaluated. We used a test negative design and included participants who had been tested at least once for SARS-CoV-2 between February 28 th and December 31 st, 2020. The association of MGUS and a positive test for SARS-CoV-2 was assessed using logistic regression, adjusted for sex and age. Next, the association of MGUS and severe COVID-19 was evaluated. Those who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 were included unless they were hospitalized or living in a nursing home at diagnosis. Participants were followed until discharge from telehealth monitoring or until considered having severe COVID-19. Severe COVID-19 was defined as the composite outcome of the need for outpatient visit or hospital admission and death and as the composite outcome of hospital admission and death. Logistic regression was then performed adjusting for sex and age. Results Of the 75,422 individuals screened for MGUS, 32,047 (42%) were tested for SARS-CoV-2 during the study period of whom 1,754 had MGUS (5.5%). Those with MGUS were older (mean age 66.3 vs 59.1 p Of those who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, a total of 230 had the composite outcome of requiring an outpatient visit or hospital admission, and death, and 117 had the composite outcome of hospital admission and death. After adjusting for age and sex, MGUS was not found to be associated with either endpoint (OR: 0.99; 95%CI: 0.52-1.91; p=0.99 and OR: 1.13; 95%CI: 0.52-2.46; p=0.76; Table; Figure B) Conclusions: In this large population-based study that included 75,422 individuals screened for MGUS, we did not find MGUS to be associated with SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility or COVID-19 severity. This is contrary to MM which is preceded by MGUS. These findings suggest that immunosuppression in MGUS differs significantly from that of MM and are important since they can inform management and recommendations for individuals with MGUS. Figure 1 Figure 1. Disclosures Kampanis: The Binding Site: Current Employment. Hultcrantz: Intellisphere LLC: Consultancy; Daiichi Sankyo: Research Funding; Curio Science LLC: Consultancy; Amgen: Research Funding; GlaxoSmithKline: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. Durie: Amgen, Celgene/Bristol-Myers Squibb, Janssen, and Takeda: Consultancy; Amgen: Other: fees from non-CME/CE services . Harding: The Binding Site: Current Employment, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Patents & Royalties. Landgren: Amgen: Honoraria; Janssen: Honoraria; Celgene: Research Funding; Janssen: Other: IDMC; Janssen: Research Funding; Takeda: Other: IDMC; Amgen: Research Funding; GSK: Honoraria. Kristinsson: Amgen: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding.

Introduction Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is a plasma cell disorder preceding multiple myeloma and related disorders, present in 4.2% of the population over the age of 50. Although usually asymptomatic, MGUS has been associated with various health-related problems, including thrombosis, infections, fractures, neuropathy, and death. Because MGUS is asymptomatic, its diagnosis is typically incidental, during clinical workup for unrelated medical issues, and therefore most individuals remain undiagnosed. Consequently, MGUS cohorts in past studies may have suffered from more comorbidities than the actual population with MGUS. This might have introduced selection bias in previous studies on MGUS, which extent has not been studied in a systematic way. Therefore, previously reported associations between MGUS and various medical issues might not be as profound as formerly observed. The aim of this study was to compare characteristics of incidentally diagnosed MGUS versus MGUS diagnosed by systematic screening, with particular focus on demographics, comorbidities, and MGUS-related factors. Methods The study is based on the Iceland Screens, Treats, or Prevents Multiple Myeloma (iStopMM) study. iStopMM is a population-based screening study for MGUS and a randomized controlled trial of follow-up strategies that has included 54% (n = 80,759) of the Icelandic population above 40 years of age. In total, 75,422 participants were screened for MGUS by serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) and free light chain (FLC) assay. Information on which individuals had incidentally diagnosed MGUS (clinical MGUS) prior to participation in iStopMM were gathered from the Icelandic cancer registry and laboratory results from Landspítali University Hospital and Læknasetrið, the only laboratories in Iceland that perform SPEP. M-protein concentration, MGUS isotype and FLC ratio were obtained from the original screening samples. Comorbidity data was acquired from two high-quality national registries: Hospital Discharge Register and Register of Primary Health Care Contacts, with >95% completeness and accuracy. MGUS diagnosed by screening was further classified into MGUS with or without M-proteins (light-chain MGUS). Those with clinical MGUS were used as the reference group in all analyses. Since all individuals with clinical MGUS had M-proteins, individuals with light-chain MGUS were excluded from this study. T-test and chi-square test were used for demographic comparison; linear regression adjusting for sex and age for continuous variables, and logistic regression adjusting for sex and age for comparison of categorical variables, regarding MGUS-related factors and comorbidities. Results The study cohort consisted of 3,300 individuals who had MGUS with M-proteins; 224 individuals with clinical MGUS and 3,076 with screened MGUS. The clinical MGUS group was significantly older (p Discussion In this large population-based study including 75,000 screened individuals, we found clinical MGUS cases to be older, more likely to live in Iceland's capital area, and have a higher M-protein concentration than those found to have MGUS while screened on the iStopMM study. Individuals with clinical MGUS also had a higher number of underlying comorbidities and were 1.5-3.3 times more likely to suffer from arrhythmias, chronic kidney diseases, endocrine disorders, heart failure, neurological diseases, and rheumatological diseases. Our findings highlight the importance of screening studies to evaluate the true epidemiological and biological implications of MGUS and suggest selection bias in prior studies. Figure 1 Figure 1. Disclosures Kampanis: The Binding Site: Current Employment. Hultcrantz: Daiichi Sankyo: Research Funding; GlaxoSmithKline: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Curio Science LLC: Consultancy; Amgen: Research Funding; Intellisphere LLC: Consultancy. Durie: Amgen, Celgene/Bristol-Myers Squibb, Janssen, and Takeda: Consultancy; Amgen: Other: fees from non-CME/CE services . Harding: The Binding Site: Current Employment, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Patents & Royalties. Landgren: Janssen: Honoraria; Janssen: Other: IDMC; Takeda: Other: IDMC; Janssen: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Amgen: Honoraria; Amgen: Research Funding; GSK: Honoraria. Kristinsson: Amgen: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding.

For patients diagnosed with multiple myeloma (MM) there have been significant treatment advances over the past decade, reflected in an increasing proportion of patients achieving durable remissions. Clinical trials repeatedly demonstrate that achieving a deep response to therapy, with a bone marrow assessment proving negative for minimal residual disease (MRD), confers a significant survival advantage. To accurately assess for minute quantities of residual cancer requires highly sensitive methods; either multiparameter flow cytometry or next generation sequencing are currently recommended for MM response assessment. Under optimal conditions, these methods can detect one aberrant cell amongst 1,000,000 normal cells (a sensitivity of 10-6). Here, we will review the practical use of MRD assays in MM, including challenges in implementation for the routine diagnostic laboratory, standardisation across laboratories and clinical trials, the clinical integration of MRD status assessment into MM management and future directions for ongoing research.

Chromothripsis is detectable in 20-30% of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) patients and is emerging as a new independent adverse prognostic factor. In this study, we interrogate 752 NDMM patients using whole genome sequencing (WGS) to study the relationship of copy number (CN) signatures to chromothripsis and show they are highly associated. CN signatures are highly predictive of the presence of chromothripsis (AUC=0.90) and can be used to identify its adverse prognostic impact. The ability of CN signatures to predict the presence of chromothripsis was confirmed in a validation series of WGS comprised of 235 hematological cancers (AUC=0.97) and an independent series of 34 NDMM (AUC=0.87). We show that CN signatures can also be derived from whole exome data (WES) and using 677 cases from the same series of NDMM, we were able to predict both the presence of chromothripsis (AUC=0.82) and its adverse prognostic impact. CN signatures constitute a flexible tool to identify the presence of chromothripsis and is applicable to WES and WGS data.

This cohort study assesses the concordance of 3 models to stratify risk for progression to multiple myeloma in an independent cohort of patients with smoldering multiple myeloma.

In the original version of [this article][1] ([1][2]) as it was published online on July 30, 2020, a reference to the study ([2][3]) reporting 23 patients from Mount Sinai included in this cohort has been inadvertently omitted from the Methods. Information on patients per hospitals in this study is

Objective: Opportunistic infections in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) have been described in clinical trials, single-center studies, and case reports. We performed a nationwide study to estimate the incidence and impact of inpatient opportunistic infections. Methods: The incidence rate (IR) and incidence rate ratio (IRR) for Swedish CLL patients diagnosed 1994-2013, and matched controls were calculated, as well as the case-fatality ratio (CFR). Results: Among 8989 CLL patients, a total of 829 opportunistic infections were registered (IR 16.6 per 1000 person-years) compared with 252 opportunistic infections in 34 283 matched controls (IR 0.99). The highest incidence in the CLL cohort was for Pneumocystis pneumonia (200 infections, IR 4.03); Herpes zoster (146 infections, IR 2.94), and Pseudomonas (83 infections, IR 1.66) infections. The highest risk relative to matched controls was observed for Pneumocystis pneumonia (IRR 114, 95% confidence interval 58.7-252). The 60-day CFR for CLL patients with opportunistic infections was 23% (188/821), highest for progressive multifocal encephalopathy (5/7, 71%) and aspergillosis (25/60, 42%). Conclusion: We have uniquely depicted the incidence of rare and serious infections in CLL patients and found a relatively high incidence of Pneumocystis pneumonia. Of the most common opportunistic infections, CLL patients with aspergillosis had the poorest prognosis. (Less)

At the end of 2019, a novel coronavirus was identified as the cause of pneumonia cases in Wuhan, a city in the Hubei Province of China. On January 30, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the COVID-19 outbreak a public health emergency of international concern and, in March 2020, began to characterize it as a pandemic. The virus that causes COVID-19 is designated severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) In February 2020, the World Health Organization designated the disease COVID-19, which stands for coronavirus disease 2019.

Medical records uncover clinical and demographic characteristics associated with severity of COVID-19 in a large multicenter cohort of patients with multiple myeloma., Patients with multiple myeloma have a compromised immune system, due to both the disease and antimyeloma therapies, and may therefore be particularly susceptible to COVID-19. Here, we report outcomes and risk factors for serious disease in patients with multiple myeloma treated at five large academic centers in New York City in the spring of 2020, during which it was a global epicenter of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Of 100 patients with multiple myeloma (male 58%; median age 68) diagnosed with COVID-19, 75 were admitted; of these, 13 patients (17%) were placed on invasive mechanical ventilation, and 22 patients (29%) expired. Of the 25 nonadmitted patients, 4 were asymptomatic. There was a higher risk of adverse outcome (intensive care unit admission, mechanical ventilation, or death) in Hispanics/Latinos (n = 21), OR = 4.7 (95% confidence interval, 1.3–16.7), and African American Blacks (n = 33), OR = 3.5 (1.1–11.5), as compared with White patients (n = 36). Patients who met the adverse combined endpoint had overall higher levels of inflammatory markers and cytokine activation. None of the other studied risk factors were significantly associated (P > 0.05) with adverse outcome: hypertension (n = 56), OR = 2.2 (0.9–5.4); diabetes (n = 18), OR = 0.9 (0.3–2.9); age >65 years (n = 63), OR = 1.8 (0.7–4.6); high-dose melphalan with autologous stem cell transplant

ImportanceNew York City is a global epicenter for the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak with a significant number of individuals infected by the virus. Patients with multiple myeloma have a compromised immune system, due to both the disease and anti-myeloma therapies, and may therefore be particularly susceptible to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19); however, there is limited information to guide clinical management.ObjectiveTo assess risk factors and outcomes of COVID-19 in patients with multiple myeloma.DesignCase-series.SettingFive large academic centers in New York City.ParticipantsPatients with multiple myeloma and related plasma cell disorders who were diagnosed with COVID-19 between March 10th, 2020 and April 30th,2020.ExposuresClinical features and risk factors were analyzed in relation to severity of COVID-19.Main Outcomes and MeasuresDescriptive statistics as well as logistic regression were used to estimate disease severity reflected in hospital admissions, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, need for mechanical ventilation, or death.ResultsOf 100 multiple myeloma patients (male 58%; median age 68, range 41-91) diagnosed with COVID-19, 74 (74%) were admitted; of these 13 (18%) patients were placed on mechanical ventilation, and 18 patients (24%) expired. None of the studied risk factors were significantly associated (P>0.05) with adverse outcomes (ICU-admission, mechanical ventilation, or death): hypertension (N=56) odds ratio (OR) 2.3 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.9-5.9); diabetes (N=18) OR 1.1 (95% CI 0.3-3.2); age >65 years (N=63) OR 2.0 (95% CI 0.8-5.3); high dose melphalan with autologous stem cell transplant Conclusions and RelevanceAlthough multiple myeloma patients have a compromised immune system due to both the disease and therapy; in this largest disease specific cohort to date of patients with multiple myeloma and COVID-19, compared to the general population, we found risk factors for adverse outcome to be shared and mortality rates to be within the higher range of officially reported mortality rates.

Recent advances in multiple myeloma include numerous approvals of novel therapies with unprecedented efficacy, a rapid and sustained tempo of new drug development, and further refinements to prognostication to include minimal residual disease (MRD) testing and improved risk stratification. The upfront use of immunomodulatory drug and proteasome inhibitor combinations followed by maintenance has resulted in transformative clinical benefit. Four-drug regimens incorporating monoclonal antibodies are reporting unprecedented rates of complete response and MRD negativity in the absence of intensification. In the context of these advances, the added value of high-dose melphalan with autologous stem-cell transplant (HDM-ASCT) is a key question. From a safety standpoint, HDM-ASCT is associated with both acute toxicities that reduce quality of life and long-term toxicities that may limit life expectancy for some patients. The present review discusses the recent advances in induction therapy, the impact of these advances on HDM-ASCT, the evolving role of MRD testing and the short- and long-term risks of HDM-ASCT. Recognising that prospective data remains limited, we suggest that HDM-ASCT not be considered mandatory for eligible newly diagnosed patients who are treated with highly efficacious regimens and achieve deep responses, but rather be held in reserve without early exposure to the clinical and genomic toxicity inherent to this approach.

Objective: Infections in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) have been thoroughly investigated in the setting of clinical trials and single-center studies. However, large cohort studies on real-world data and studies on temporal trends are lacking. We performed a nationwide study on serious bacterial infections in CLL. Methods: Using high-quality Swedish government-based registries, 13 009 CLL patients diagnosed in 1982-2013 and their 49 380 matched controls were included. Results: Overall, CLL patients had an increased risk of serious inpatient bacterial infections with a hazard ratio (HR) 5.32 and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 5.11-5.53, and the highest risk was observed for septicemia (HR 6.91, 95% CI 6.46-7.39) and lung infections (5.91, 5.64-6.18). The risk of serious inpatient bacterial infections decreased overtime with HR 0.87 (0.81-0.94) and HR 0.76 (0.70-0.82) in 1993-2002 and 2003-2013, respectively, compared to 1982-1992. CLL patients had an increased risk of death following a serious inpatient bacterial infection compared to matched CLL patients, and the risk was highest in the first 12 months after the infection (HR 5.48, 95% CI 5.11-5.90). Conclusion: We have, in this nationwide study, characterized the risk of serious bacterial infections in CLL patients and, importantly, depicted that the risk has decreased overtime. (Less)

Objectives In the field of relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM), between-trial or indirect comparisons are required to estimate relative treatment effects between competing interventions based on the available evidence. Two approaches are frequently used in RRMM: network meta-analysis (NMA) and unanchored matching-adjusted indirect comparison (MAIC). The objective of the current study was to evaluate the relevance and credibility of published NMA and unanchored MAIC studies aiming to estimate the comparative efficacy of treatment options for RRMM. Methods Twelve relevant studies were identified in the published literature (n = 7) and from health technology assessment agencies (n = 5). Data from trials were extracted to identify between-trial differences that may have biased results. Credibility of the performed analyses and relevance of the research questions were critically appraised using the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) checklist and feedback based on consultations with clinical experts. Results The identified studies concerned NMAs of randomized controlled trials (RCTs; n = 7), unanchored MAICs (n = 4), or both types of analyses (n = 1). According to clinical expert consultation, the majority of the identified NMAs did not consider differences in prior therapies or treatment duration across the RCTs included in the analyses, thereby compromising the relevance. Conclusion Based on the results and feedback from clinicians, the majority of NMAs did not consider prior treatment history or treatment duration, which resulted in nonrelevant comparisons. Furthermore, it may have compromised the credibility of the estimates owing to differences in effect-modifiers between the different trials. Pairwise comparisons by means of unanchored MAICs require clear justification given the reliance on non-randomized comparisons.

In patients with multiple myeloma, plasmablastic transformation in the bone marrow is rare and associated with poor outcomes. The significance of discordant extramedullary plasmablastic transformation in patients with small, mature clonal plasma cells in the bone marrow has not been well studied. Here, we report the clinicopathologic, cytogenetic, and molecular features of 10 such patients (male/female: 6/4, median age: 65 y, range: 48 to 76 y) with an established diagnosis of multiple myeloma in the bone marrow composed of small, mature plasma cells in parallel with a concurrent or subsequent extramedullary plasmablastic transformation. Eight patients with available survival data showed an overall aggressive clinical course with a median survival of 4.5 months after the diagnosis of extramedullary plasmablastic transformation, despite aggressive treatment and even in patients with low-level bone marrow involvement. Pathologically, the extramedullary plasmablastic myeloma were clonally related to the corresponding bone marrow plasma cells, showed high levels of CMYC and/or P53 expression with a high Ki-67 proliferation index by immunohistochemistry and harbored more complex genomic aberrations including frequent mutations in the RAS pathway and MYC rearrangements compared with their bone marrow counterparts. In summary, although genetic and immunohistochemical studies were not uniformly performed on all cases due to the retrospective nature of this study, our data suggest that discordant extramedullary plasmablastic transformation of multiple myeloma has an aggressive clinical course and is characterized by frequent mutations in the RAS pathway and more complex genomic abnormalities.

Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) remains the standard of care for transplantation-eligible patients with multiple myeloma (MM). Bortezomib with lenalidomide and dexamethasone (VRD) is the most common triplet regimen for newly diagnosed MM in the United States. Carfilzomib with lenalidomide and dexamethasone (KRD) has shown promising efficacy and may supplant VRD. We compared stem cell yields and autograft minimal residual disease (MRD)-negativity after VRD and KRD induction. Deeper responses (ie, very good partial response or better) were more common with KRD. Precollection bone marrow (BM) cellularity, interval from the end of induction therapy to start of stem cell collection, and method of stem cell mobilization were similar for the 2 cohorts. Days to complete collection was greater with KRD (2.2 days, versus 1.81 days with VRD), which more often required ≥3 days of apheresis. Precollection viable CD34(+) cell content was greater with VRD, as was collection yield (11.11 × 10(6), versus 9.19 × 10(6) with KRD). Collection failure (defined as

Fluorine-18 (18F)-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) allows evaluation of elevated glucose metabolism in malignancies. There has been increasing interest in FDG PET/CT for plasma cell disorders since the International Myeloma Working Group outlined multiple applications of this imaging modality, including distinguishing smoldering myeloma from active multiple myeloma, confirmation of solitary plasmacytoma, and multiple indications in patients with known multiple myeloma, including determining extent of initial disease, monitoring therapy response, and detection of residual disease following therapy. The field of molecular imaging is now shifting focus from evaluation of metabolism to targeted evaluation of specific tumor markers. Targeted PET imaging targeted of CXCR4 and CD38 has advanced into translational clinical trials, bringing us closer to powerful imaging options for myeloma. In this review we discuss the current applications of FDG PET/CT in plasma cell disorders, as well as advances in targeted PET imaging.