A pediatric regimen for older adolescents and young adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia: results of CALGB 10403

Stem cell transplantation indications for patients with acute leukemia determined by measurable residual disease: what we know and what we do not know

Acute leukemia (AL), which includes acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), is a hematological malignancy characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of immature myeloid or lymphoid cells. Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (ASCT) remains a therapeutic option for patients with AL. Determination of transplantation indications is a key step in successful ASCT and in curing patients. Currently, the measurable residual disease (MRD) is used as a biomarker for response evaluation, relapse prediction, preemptive therapy, and post-remission treatment selection. In this review, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these techniques for MRD detection. We focused mainly on the residual disease-directed selection of transplant indications for patients with either AML or ALL and provided expert opinions in these settings. We also discuss the challenges associated with transplantation indications and propose expert opinions and future directions for the selection of indications for transplantation.

BCL2 inhibition in adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia: ready for primetime?

Not available.

The Efficacy of Pediatric-Inspired Regimens vs. Hyper-CVAD in the Treatment of Adolescents and Young Adults With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoblastic lymphoma (ALL/LBL) have poorer outcomes than pediatric patients. The aim of this systematic literature review and meta-analysis was to compare asparaginase (ASP)-containing pediatric-inspired regimens (PIRs) with hyper-fractionated cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, and dexamethasone (hyper-CVAD) in adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with ALL/LBL. Searches included relevant publications up to April 21, 2022. A meta-analysis was conducted in four studies with comparable demographics, to estimate the effects of intervention on rates of response and survival. Patients receiving PIRs were approximately twice as likely to achieve complete response and 1.8 times more likely to survive than patients receiving hyper-CVAD. These results suggest ASP-containing PIRs are associated with improved outcomes in AYAs compared with hyper-CVAD.

Repurposing the Whole Expression Transcriptome Assay for the Genetic Diagnosis of T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and Lymphoma

Unlike other cases of acute leukemia, the diagnosis of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (T-ALL/LBL) is uniquely based on morphology and flow cytometry. Although the genomic background has been broadly uncovered, the large spectrum of genes involved and the variability of the molecular mechanisms underlying gene deregulation have delayed the introduction of molecular cytogenetics into diagnostic flowcharts. To overcome these limitations and implement a genetic diagnosis of T-ALL/LBLs, a whole transcriptome expression assay (WTEa) was repurposed as a "priority test" to classify T-ALL/LBLs into the major genetic subtypes. A WTEa classifier based on a set of 312 probes on 215 T-ALL/LBLs was set up and applied, which properly assigned >95% of cases with subtype-defining alterations to the corresponding subgroups (ie, TAL/LMO, HOXA, TLX1, TLX3, BCL11B). It pinpointed cases that harbored cryptic alterations, such as noncoding mutations that generate new enhancer at TAL1 and LMO2 loci (8% of TAL/LMO), and duplications of noncoding element downstream BCL11B (BETA) (18% of BCL11B). It was also suitable to classify lymphoma cases for which only formalin-fixed embedded tissues were available, as confirmed in cases harboring TLX1 or TLX3 rearrangements, and distinguished new putative subtypes. WTEa offers a unifying tool to provide a genetic classification of T-ALL/LBLs. If introduced in multicenter prospective studies, it will facilitate evaluation of the clinical impact of genetic classification.

Vincristine Sulfate Liposome Injection With Combination Chemotherapy for Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults With Relapsed Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Therapeutic Advances in Childhood Leukemia and Lymphoma Consortium Trial

INTRODUCTION

Vincristine sulfate liposome injection (VSLI), a liposomal formulation of vincristine, may be better tolerated than standard aqueous vincristine and enable dose intensification.

PROCEDURES

Based on single-agent tolerability, activity, and FDA approval in adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), we tested the safety and feasibility of VSLI as replacement for standard vincristine in the UK ALL R3 mitoxantrone-based four-drug induction (Cohort A), a three-drug anthracycline-free induction (Cohort B), and maintenance chemotherapy (Cohort C) in children and young adults with relapsed/refractory B-cell ALL.

RESULTS

Among 29 participants with a median age of 12.4 years (range: 1.8-19.6 years), 16 received Cohort A, eight received Cohort B, and five received Cohort C therapy. Dose level 1 (DL1): 1.5 mg/m2 and dose level 2 (DL2): 2 mg/m2 of VSLI, each without a dose cap, were tested. Collectively, the median VSLI dose administered was 1.9 mg (range: 0.71-4.06 mg), and 13 (44.8%) received a dose above the standard 2 mg vincristine dose cap. Dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) at DL2 were seen in three patients, two in Cohort A and one in Cohort B, prompting further evaluation at DL1 for both cohorts. No DLTs were experienced at DL1. Only DL2 was tested in Cohort C-without DLT. Complete remissions were seen in 14 of 16 (87.5%) participants in Cohort A; three of eight (37.5%) in Cohort B; and one (20%) in Cohort C. VSLI with combination chemotherapy at DL1 was generally well tolerated.

CONCLUSION

Based on the promising response signal in this heavily pretreated population, further study of VSLI is warranted. (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02879643).

Management of Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Review

Importance

Research in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is translating into rapid changes in therapy and outcomes. Historically, adult ALL was treated with intensive chemotherapy extending over 2.5 to 3 years. This established tradition, accepted because of the high cure rates in childhood ALL, has been challenged by the development of highly active targeted therapies.

Observation

Treatment modalities, combined with less and shorter chemotherapy durations, have produced better results than chemotherapy. The novel therapies include using the more potent BCR::ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors (eg, ponatinib, dasatinib) with the bispecific CD3-CD19 T-cell engager antibody blinatumomab in Philadelphia chromosome-positive ALL and combining blinatumomab and/or inotuzumab (CD22 antibody drug conjugate) with standard chemotherapy in B-cell ALL. These have been associated with improved 4-year survival rates of 85% to 90% in Philadelphia chromosome-positive ALL and 80% to 85% in B-cell ALL.

Conclusions and Relevance

The management of ALL is changing rapidly. Investigators have evaluated frontline and later-line regimens with combinations of tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immunotherapies with less or no chemotherapy. Future research will evaluate CD19, CD20, and CD22 multitargeting antibodies and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapies, new antibody formulations, and less intensive/shorter regimens.

Venetoclax in combination with a pediatric-inspired regimen for the treatment of newly diagnosed adults with Philadelphia chromosome-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia

BCL-2 protein overexpression, common in B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), including the Philadelphia chromosome (Ph)-like subtype, mediates leukemic cell survival. We treated 24 patients with 14 days of BCL-2 inhibitor, venetoclax, 400 mg daily (dose level 1) during induction and consolidation cycles combined with the CALGB 10403 regimen in newly diagnosed adults with Ph-negative B-ALL. Median age was 31 years (range: 18-53), 92% were Hispanic, and 12 (50%) patients had Ph-like ALL. No dose-limiting toxicity occurred in the phase 1 part. Median times to neutrophil and platelet count recovery were 20 and 21 days from start of induction, respectively. The most common grade ≥3 treatment-related adverse events were leukopenia (96%), neutropenia (83%), anemia (83%), thrombocytopenia (79%), lymphopenia (71%), hyperbilirubinemia (38%), and elevated ALT (33%). One patient with non-Ph-like ALL died from asparaginase-associated pancreatitis, and 23 (96%) patients achieved complete remission (CR) or CR with incomplete count recovery (CRi) following induction with or without extended induction phase. Of the 22 patients who started consolidation, 20 (91%) achieved negative minimal residual disease status (MRD-) (<0.01%) CR/CRi by flow cytometry. Of 12 patients with Ph-like B-ALL, 11 achieved MRDstatus post consolidation, with only one patient having persistent MRD at 0.01%. At diagnosis, Ph-like B-ALL cases had a trend toward a greater BCL-2-dependency compared to non-Ph-like (P=0.06). The addition of venetoclax to a pediatric-inspired regimen was safe in adults with B-ALL, leading to encouraging MRD- rate post consolidation in high-risk B-ALL, including the Ph-like subtype (clinicaltrials.gov 05157971).

Autologous stem cell transplantation for adults with Philadelphia-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia in first complete remission. A study by the Acute Leukemia Working Party of the EBMT

BACKGROUND

The role of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) in adults with Philadelphia chromosome-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph-ALL) remains controversial. The aim of this retrospective study was to analyze results of AHSCT and to identify prognostic factors.

METHODS

Overall, 700 patients transplanted in first complete remission between the years 1999-2020 were included. Median patient age was 31.9 years (68% male). B-cell precursor ALL (BCP-ALL) and T-cell precursor ALL (TCP-ALL) was diagnosed in 35% and 65%, respectively. Among 190 patients with available data, negative minimal residual disease (MRD) status was reported in 167 (88%) cases.

RESULTS

The probabilities of overall survival (OS) and leukemia-free survival (LFS) at 2 years were 67% and 56%; relapse incidence (RI) and non-relapse mortality (NRM) were 39% and 5%, respectively. TCP-ALL was associated with lower RI (41% vs. 56%, p=0.001), higher LFS (52% vs. 38%, p=0.002) and OS (58% vs 45%, p=0.001) at 5 years when compared to BCP-ALL. In the multivariate analysis, TCP-ALL and longer interval from diagnosis do AHSCT were associated with reduced risk of relapse (HR 0.7, p=0.006 and HR=0.95, p=0.018), better LFS (HR=0.76, p=0.02 and HR=0.95, p=0.01) and OS (HR=0.75, p=0.024 and HR=0.94, p=0.013, respectively). Increasing patient age was associated with higher NRM (HR=1.49, p<0.0001), worse LFS (HR=1.1, p=0.01) and OS (HR=1.17, p=0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is relatively safe option of late treatment intensification in adults with Ph- ALL. It may be a valuable option especially in patients with TCP-ALL, however it should be proved in prospective clinical trials.

Universal Premedication Does Not Impact Transition to Short-Acting Asparaginase or Incidence of Hypersensitivity to Pegylated Asparaginase: A Single-Institution Experience

Asparaginase is a critical component of therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma but is associated with hypersensitivity reactions. Severe reactions necessitate a transition to an Erwinia asparaginase product, which requires more frequent dosing and higher costs. Children's Hospital Colorado implemented universal pegaspargase premedication in May 2020 and a retrospective analysis was conducted to compare the rates of transition to Erwinia products and hypersensitivity reactions between the preimplementation and postimplementation cohorts. In this large single-institution experience, universal premedication did not impact rates of Erwinia transition or hypersensitivity reactions.

Incorporation of immunotherapy into frontline treatment for adults with B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia

ABSTRACT

Although complete remission rates in adults with B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP-ALL) have improved over the last 2 decades, it is still inferior to that of the pediatric population, and once in remission, the risk of relapse is still high. Furthermore, although pediatric-inspired chemotherapy regimens have improved long-term outcomes for adolescents and young adults, these intensive chemotherapy regimens are not well tolerated in older patients and are associated with higher morbidity and mortality. Immunotherapeutic agents offer a potential opportunity to improve response and decrease relapse without increasing toxicity. The incorporation of rituximab (anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody) into chemotherapy regimens has been shown to improve outcomes. The treatment of BCP-ALL in adults has been transformed with the approval of inotuzumab ozogamicin (anti-CD22 antibody-drug conjugate), blinatumomab (CD3/CD19 bispecific antibody construct), and chimeric antigen receptor T cells for relapsed or refractory disease and of blinatumomab for measurable residual disease (MRD)-positive remission. More recently, studies of inotuzumab and blinatumomab have shown promising results when used up front either with or without multiagent chemotherapy. Blinatumomab has also been shown in a randomized trial to provide a survival benefit in patients with MRD-negative first remission when added to chemotherapy, which recently led to its additional US Food and Drug Administration approval for use in consolidation. In this review, we highlight the evolution of chemoimmunotherapy-based treatment approaches in the management of treatment-naïve BCP-ALL.

The prognostic impact of body composition assessed by computed tomography in adult patients with newly diagnosed acute lymphoblastic leukemia

BACKGROUND

Body composition has emerged as a significant determinant of cancer patient outcomes, with computed tomography (CT) assessment at the L3 level offering a reliable evaluation method. While muscle mass and adiposity have been linked to poorer outcomes in hematological malignancies, their impact remains unstudied in adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

METHODS

This retrospective single-center study enrolled adults newly diagnosed with ALL. Skeletal muscle, visceral, and subcutaneous fat areas were quantified. Low muscle mass was defined as a skeletal muscle index (SMI) less than 55 cm2/m2 in men, and less than 39 cm2/m2 in women, and receiver operating characteristic curves determined cutoff points for SMI, subcutaneous adipose tissue index (SATI) and visceral adipose tissue index (VATI) correlated with mortality.

RESULTS

Ninety patients were included. Low muscle mass was associated with mortality in patients treated with a pediatric inspired regimen (PIR) (HR 4.92, 95 % CI [1.38-17.57], p = 0.014) and lower median SMI was observed in patients who died during induction (p = 0.016). High visceral adiposity (HR 1.89, 95 % CI [1-3.57], p = 0.049) and high subcutaneous adiposity (HR 1.99, 95 % CI [1-3.96], p = 0.05) were also associated with mortality in the whole population. Furthermore, a higher VATI was observed in patients who developed an infectious episode during induction (p = 0.03), and a higher VATI was observed in patients who were treated with a PIR who had measurable residual disease positivity after induction chemotherapy (p = 0.044).

CONCLUSION

CT-assessed muscle mass, and adiposity bear prognostic significance in newly diagnosed ALL patients.

Refining Risk Stratification for B-cell Precursor Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Treated With a Pediatric-inspired Regimen by Combining IKZF1 Deletion and Minimal Residual Disease

INTRODUCTION

Minimal residual disease (MRD) is the most important prognostic factor for B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) however nearly 20-30% of patients relapsed even when they achieved negative MRD, how to identify these patients is less addressed. In this study, we aimed to reassess the prognostic significance of MRD and IKZF1 in adult B-ALL patients receiving pediatric chemotherapy regimens.

METHODOLOGY

A total of 202 newly diagnosed adult patients with B-ALL treated at Nanfang Hospital between January 2016 and September 2020 were enrolled in the population-based protocol of the PDT-ALL-2016 trial (NCT03564470), a GRAALL-backbone, peg-aspargase-intensified, antimetabolite-based pediatric-inspired regimen therapy. The validation dataset COG-P9906, which includes complete gene expression profiles and clinical data for 190 samples, is accessible via the NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) at the following link: (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/), under the accession code GSE11877.

MAIN FINDINGS

B-ALL patients were redefined as standard (MRD-negative and IKZF1wild-type), intermediate (MRD-positive or IKZF1 deletion), and high-risk (MRD-positive and IKZF1 deletion) groups by combining IKZF1 deletion status and MRD. In the PDT-ALL-2016 cohort, patients in the high- and intermediate-risk groups who underwent allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) exhibited significantly improved 5-year overall survival (OS), event-free survival (EFS), and lower cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR) compared to those who received chemotherapy alone. In the PDT-ALL-2016 cohort, no significant advantage was observed in the 5-year OS, EFS, and CIR of patients in the standard-risk group who received allo-HSCT compared to those who received chemotherapy.

DISCUSSION

Traditional risk factors, incorporating clinical and cytogenetic features, have been previously evaluated to stratify risks and guide treatment decisions. However, the prognostic strength of this stratified system is limited by the pediatric-inspired protocol background, making it difficult to identify patients with a high risk of relapse. Therefore, in the era of pediatric-inspired protocols, it is imperative to reassess traditional risk factors to identify patients at high risk of recurrence and mortality.In this study, we retrospectively evaluated the combination of MRD and IKZF1 to develop an efficient risk stratification tool for adult patients with B-ALL in the pediatric-inspired chemotherapy era. Moreover, allo-HSCT had distinct efficacy at different risk levels, which means that the decision to perform allo-HSCT may be well guided by this risk classification scheme.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, based on our cohort study and validation cohort, we demonstrated that the combination of MRD and IKZF1 deletion allows for better risk stratification of adults with B-ALL and that allo-HSCT mitigates the poor prognosis of MRD+ and/or IKZF1del subgroups.

Clinical use of measurable residual disease in adult ALL: recommendations from a panel of US experts

ABSTRACT

Measurable residual disease (MRD) is a powerful predictor of clinical outcomes in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). In addition to its clear prognostic importance, MRD information is increasingly used in clinical decision algorithms to guide therapeutic interventions. Although it is well established that achievement of MRD-negative remission is an important end point of ALL therapy, the prognostic and therapeutic implications of MRD in an individual patient are influenced by both disease-related factors (eg, cytomolecular risk) and assay-related factors (eg, sensitivity, specimen source, and timing of assessment), which add complexity to MRD-guided treatment decisions. In this review, we discuss the data supporting the use of MRD assessment in adult ALL and how this information can rationally inform clinical decisions, including selection of patients for MRD-directed therapies or allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. We also discuss important interpretative challenges related to novel high sensitivity next-generation sequencing-based MRD assays, which are becoming increasingly used in clinical practice.

Integrating Blinatumomab in the Frontline Treatment in B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A New Era in Therapeutic Management

Blinatumomab, a bispecific T-cell engager (BiTE), has shown substantial efficacy in treating both relapsed/refractory (R/R) Philadelphia chromosome (Ph)-positive and Ph-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). With its targeted mechanism of action, favorable safety profile, and ability to induce deep molecular remissions, blinatumomab is increasingly incorporated into frontline treatment regimens for B-ALL. Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its use in the frontline setting for Ph-negative ALL. In Ph-negative ALL, combining blinatumomab with intensive chemotherapy has resulted in superior measurable residual disease (MRD) clearance and improved long-term outcomes. In Ph-positive ALL, combination therapies involving tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), particularly ponatinib and blinatumomab, are challenging the traditional approach of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT). This review explores the current evidence supporting the frontline use of blinatumomab in newly diagnosed adults with B-ALL, its impact on treatment paradigms, and potential future directions, including novel combination therapies and the role of emerging immunotherapeutic approaches.

Delaying pegaspargase during induction in adults with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia is associated with lower risk of high-grade hepatotoxicity without adversely impacting outcomes

Pegaspargase is a key drug for the treatment of younger adults with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). Pegaspargase-associated hepatotoxicity is most common during induction, and its incidence increases with age and body mass index (BMI). We hypothesized that the delayed administration of pegaspargase during induction is associated with lower risk of hepatotoxicity while retaining efficacy. We retrospectively reviewed 141 adult patients with newly diagnosed ALL who received pegaspargase during induction from November 2013 to February 2024. There were 78 (55.3%) patients who received early pegaspargase (EP) on day 4 and 63 (44.7%) patients who received delayed pegaspargase (DP) on day 15. High-grade hepatotoxicity (grade ≥ 3 transaminitis and/or hyperbilirubinaemia) occurred more frequently in the EP group (p = 0.06). Rates of complete remission and negative minimal residual disease post induction were not different between cohorts. Univariate logistic regression analysis showed that BMI and age significantly predicted an increased risk of high-grade hepatotoxicity while DP was associated with a lower risk (odds ratio = 0.44; p = 0.04). Overall survival and event-free survival were not significantly different between cohorts. Delaying pegaspargase administration from day 4 to day 15 during induction cycle in adults with ALL might reduce the risk of high-grade hepatotoxicity without adversely impacting clinical efficacy outcomes.

Better late than never: Delayed asparaginase during induction for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in adults

Paediatric regimens which incorporate asparaginase have improved outcomes of adolescents and younger adults with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia but are limited by toxicity. This retrospective report by Tinajero and Xu suggests that delaying the timing of asparaginase administration during ALL induction may reduce risk of hepatotoxicity. Commentary on: Tinajero et al. Delaying pegaspargase during induction in adults with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia is associated with lower risk of high-grade hepatotoxicity without adversely impacting outcomes. Br J Haematol 2025; 206:868-875.

Reduced-dose chemotherapy followed by blinatumomab for newly diagnosed philadelphia chromosome-negative B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a propensity-matched comparison with hyper-CVAD

BACKGROUND

Philadelphia chromosome-negative B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph-negative BCP-ALL) accounts for a significant portion of adult cases. Blinatumomab, a bispecific T-cell engager, has shown efficacy in relapsed or refractory BCP-ALL, but its role in induction therapy with reduced-dose chemotherapy is being explored.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, 35 newly diagnosed Ph-negative BCP-ALL patients received reduced-dose chemotherapy followed by two weeks of blinatumomab (RDC-Blinatumomab-2W) as part of our previous clinical trial. These patients were compared with a propensity score-matched historical control group of 35 patients treated with the hyper-CVAD regimen. The primary endpoint was composite complete remission (CRc); secondary endpoints included minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity, adverse events, and survival outcomes.

RESULTS

After matching, both groups had 17 patients (49%) with poor-risk genetic aberrations. The RDC-Blinatumomab-2W group achieved higher CRc rates compared to controls (94% vs. 63%, p = 0.0074) and greater MRD negativity (86% vs. 43%, p = 0.0015). They experienced fewer Grade 3-4 thrombocytopenia cases (62% vs. 89%, p = 0.012), fewer serious infections (23% vs. 54%, p = 0.019), and higher 1-year overall survival rates (97.1% vs. 58.9%, p < 0.001). The 1-year progression-free survival was also superior in the RDC-Blinatumomab-2W group (82.2% vs. 44.6%, p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

Reduced-dose chemotherapy followed by blinatumomab improves remission rates, MRD negativity, and survival while reducing adverse events in newly diagnosed Ph-negative BCP-ALL patients compared to hyper-CVAD. This regimen offers a safer and more effective induction therapy option, warranting further investigation in larger trials.

CLINICALTRIALS

GOV IDENTIFIER

NCT05557110; registered on September 8, 2022.

Clinical review of substitutions or alternatives for critical chemotherapy drug shortages in hematologic malignancies

PURPOSE

Over the past decade, drug shortages have become increasingly more problematic for clinicians, with over 300 drug shortages reported in the first quarter of 2023. Shortages of chemotherapy drugs can have a negative impact on patient care, as omission or delay of treatment can lead to worse outcomes. Although many articles have been published on this topic, currently no review articles discuss strategies for using alternative regimens or substitutions in the event of severe chemotherapy drug shortages.

SUMMARY

In this article, we review the literature on antineoplastic agents used to treat hematologic malignancies that experienced a drug shortage from 2010 through 2023, providing recommendations for substitutions and alternative regimens in the event of a critical shortage. In particular, we discuss how shortages of fludarabine, cytarabine, daunorubicin, methotrexate, and platinum agents may be addressed, including supporting clinical evidence.

CONCLUSION

Further publications assessing possible alternatives and substitutions for chemotherapy agents and examining the efficacy of previous strategies are needed to mitigate potentially devastating interruptions to care for patients with cancer during severe drug shortages.

Results of Cancer and Leukemia Group B 10102 (Alliance), a Phase 1/2 Study

BACKGROUND

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in adults is aggressive, with long-term outcomes impacted by treatment resistance and toxicity. CD52 is expressed in most cases of B- and T-lineage ALL. Alemtuzumab, a humanized immunoglobulin G1 monoclonal antibody that targets CD52, was identified as a potential agent to improve treatment efficacy without increasing toxicity.

METHODS

In this phase 1/2 study (Cancer and Leukemia Group B [CALGB] 10102, NCT00061945), a course of single-agent alemtuzumab was intercalated into CALGB 19802 backbone chemotherapy after the third course of intensive chemotherapy in those who were CD52+ at diagnosis. Phase 1 tested three dose levels of subcutaneous alemtuzumab (10, 20, and 30 mg 3 times weekly for 4 weeks/12 doses) and demonstrated that 30 mg was tolerable. Phase 2 established feasibility.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 295 evaluable patients (115 in phase 1, 180 in phase 2); 206 (69.8%) were CD52+. Among evaluable CD52+ patients, 43.7% (90/206) completed the first three treatment modules; 97.8% (88 of 90) were treated with alemtuzumab. Alemtuzumab was associated with cytomegalovirus viremia, which occurred in 23.3% (14 of 60) of patients during and 29.2% (19 of 65) after alemtuzumab treatment. With a median follow-up of 101.2 months, median overall survival (OS) was 26.3 months (3-year rate, 44%; 5-year rate, 36%; 10-year rate, 31%). Landmark analysis at the start of the fourth course of treatment demonstrated no difference in OS or disease-free survival between patients who did and who did not receive alemtuzumab.

CONCLUSION

Alemtuzumab was feasible to administer in adults with ALL receiving intensive chemotherapy, but was without evidence of benefit.

Venetoclax plus low-intensity chemotherapy for adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia

ABSTRACT

In acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the B-cell lymphoma 2 inhibitor venetoclax may enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy, allowing dose reductions. This phase 1b study of venetoclax plus attenuated chemotherapy enrolled 19 patients with ALL either newly diagnosed (aged ≥60 years, n = 11 [B-cell, n = 8; T-cell, n = 3]) or relapsed/refractory (R/R; aged ≥18 years, n = 8 [B-cell, n = 3; T-cell, n = 5]). Venetoclax was given for 21 days with each cycle of mini-hyper-CVD (mini-HCVD; cyclophosphamide, vincristine, dexamethasone alternating with methotrexate and cytarabine). There were no dose-limiting toxicities at dose level 1 (DL1; n = 3, 400 mg/d) or DL2 (n = 6, 600 mg/d); DL2 was the recommended phase 2 dose and explored further (n = 10). The most common nonhematologic adverse events were grade ≥3 infections. There were no deaths within 60 days. There was no tumor lysis syndrome, hepatotoxicity, prolonged cytopenias, or early discontinuation for toxicity. Among patients with newly diagnosed ALL, 10 of 11 (90.9%) achieved a measurable residual disease-negative (<0.01% sensitivity) complete remission (CR) including 6 patients with hypodiploid TP53-mutated ALL. All patients in CR bridged to hematopoietic stem cell transplant (n = 9) or completed protocol (n = 1). With a median follow-up of 60 months, median disease-free survival (DFS) for patients with newly diagnosed ALL was 54.6 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 35.5 to not available), with a 2-year DFS rate of 90% (95% CI, 71-100). Among patients with R/R ALL, 3 of 8 (37.5%) achieved CR. In summary, for patients with newly diagnosed ALL, venetoclax plus mini-HCVD is well tolerated with promising efficacy. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT03319901.

Abatement of the Survival Cliff in Older Adolescents and Young Adults with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and Lymphoblastic Lymphoma in the United States

Purpose: In 2018, a "survival cliff" in the United States was identified among older adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL). This study reassessed the cliff and associated putative causes. Methods: Survival data were obtained using the U.S. Surveillance Research Program, National Cancer Institute (NCI) SEER 22 Registries. Accrual data on cancer treatment trials conducted by the NCI cooperative groups and NCI-designated cancer centers were obtained from the NCI Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program. Trend and average percent changes and statistical significances were identified with the NCI Joinpoint Regression Program. Results: A previous cliff-like decrement in the survival of 17- to 20-year-olds is no longer apparent, overall and in all racial and ethnic groups. The "survival cliff" age range was coincident with a clinical trial accrual cliff, and both diminished when more clinical trials were available to, and participated in by, young adult patients. Older AYA patients of ages 30-39 had minimal improvement in clinical trial accrual and least survival gain among the AYA age group. Conclusion: The survival cliff has abated, resulting in thousands of fewer premature deaths and tens of thousands of years of life saved-a remarkable achievement. The survival improvement may be attributed to improved clinical trial availability for and recruitment and participation of AYAs on treatment trials, application of pediatric-inspired ALL treatment regimens to AYAs, expanded national health insurance for -18 to 25 year olds, improved AYA cancer services, and a national focus on AYA oncology.

The association of ABC proteins with multidrug resistance in cancer

Multidrug resistance (MDR) poses one of the primary challenges for cancer treatment, especially in cases of metastatic disease. Various mechanisms contribute to MDR, including the overexpression of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) proteins. In this context, we reviewed the literature to establish a correlation between the overexpression of ABC proteins and MDR in cancer, considering both in vitro and clinical studies. Initially, we presented an overview of the seven subfamilies of ABC proteins, along with the subcellular localization of each protein. Subsequently, we identified a panel of 20 ABC proteins (ABCA1-3, ABCA7, ABCB1-2, ABCB4-6, ABCC1-5, ABCC10-11, ABCE1, ABCF2, ABCG1, and ABCG2) associated with MDR. We also emphasize the significance of drug sequestration by certain ABC proteins into intracellular compartments. Among the anticancer drugs linked to MDR, 29 were definitively identified as substrates for at least one of the three most crucial ABC transporters: ABCB1, ABCC1, and ABCG2. We further discussed that the most commonly used drugs in standard regimens for mainly breast cancer, lung cancer, and acute lymphoblastic leukemia could be subject to MDR mediated by ABC transporters. Collectively, these insights will aid in conducting new studies aimed at a deeper understanding of the clinical MDR mediated by ABC proteins and in designing more effective pharmacological treatments to enhance the objective response rate in cancer patients.

Uridine Metabolism as a Targetable Metabolic Achilles' Heel for chemo-resistant B-ALL

Relapse continues to limit survival for patients with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). Previous studies have independently implicated activation of B-cell developmental signaling pathways and increased glucose consumption with chemo-resistance and relapse risk. Here, we connect these observations, demonstrating that B-ALL cells with active signaling, defined by high expression of phosphorylated ribosomal protein S6 ("pS6+ cells"), are metabolically unique and glucose dependent. Isotope tracing and metabolic flux analysis confirm that pS6+ cells are highly glycolytic and notably sensitive to glucose deprivation, relying on glucose for de novo nucleotide synthesis. Uridine, but not purine or pyrimidine, rescues pS6+ cells from glucose deprivation, highlighting uridine is essential for their survival. Active signaling in pS6+ cells drives uridine production through activating phosphorylation of carbamoyl phosphate synthetase (CAD), the enzyme catalyzing the initial steps of uridine synthesis. Inhibition of signaling abolishes glucose dependency and CAD phosphorylation in pS6+ cells. Primary pS6+ cells demonstrate high expression of uridine synthesis proteins, including dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH), the rate-limiting catalyst of de novo uridine synthesis. Gene expression demonstrates that increased expression of DHODH is associated with relapse and inferior event-free survival after chemotherapy. Further, the majority of B-ALL genomic subtypes demonstrate activity of DHODH. Inhibiting DHODH using BAY2402232 effectively kills pS6+ cells in vitro, with its IC50 correlated with the strength of pS6 signaling across 14 B-ALL cell lines and patient-derived xenografts (PDX). In vivo DHODH inhibition prolongs survival and decreases leukemia burden in pS6+ B-ALL cell line and PDX models. These findings link active signaling to uridine dependency in B-ALL cells and an associated risk of relapse. Targeting uridine synthesis through DHODH inhibition offers a promising therapeutic strategy for chemo-resistant B-ALL as a novel therapeutic approach for resistant disease.

How I treat Philadelphia chromosome-like acute lymphoblastic leukemia in children, adolescents, and young adults

ABSTRACT

Philadelphia chromosome-like acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph-like ALL) represents a high-risk B-lineage ALL subtype characterized by adverse clinical features and poor relapse-free survival despite risk-adapted multiagent chemotherapy regimens. The advent of next-generation sequencing has unraveled the diversity of kinase-activating genetic drivers in Ph-like ALL that are potentially amenable to personalized molecularly-targeted therapies. Based upon robust preclinical data and promising case series of clinical activity of tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI)-based treatment in adults and children with relevant genetic Ph-like ALL subtypes, several clinical trials have investigated the efficacy of JAK- or ABL-directed TKIs in cytokine receptor-like factor 2 (CRLF2)/JAK pathway-mutant or ABL-class Ph-like ALL, respectively. The final results of these trials are pending, and standard-of-care therapeutic approaches for patients with Ph-like ALL have yet to be defined. In this How I Treat perspective, we review recent literature to guide current evidence-based treatment recommendations via illustrative clinical vignettes of children, adolescents, and young adults with newly diagnosed or relapsed/refractory Ph-like ALL, and we further highlight open and soon-to-open trials investigating immunotherapy and TKIs specifically for this high-risk patient population.

SOHO State of the Art Updates and Next Questions | Approach to BCR::ABL1-Like Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Philadelphia-like (Ph-like) or BCR::ABL1-like acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a common high-risk subtype of B-cell precursor ALL (B-ALL) characterized by a diverse range of genetic alterations that challenge diagnose and converge on distinct kinase and cytokine receptor-activated gene expression profiles, resembling those from BCR::ABL1-positive ALL from which its nomenclature. The presence of kinase-activating genetic drivers has prompted the investigation in preclinical models and clinical settings of the efficacy of tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI)-based treatments. This was further supported by an inadequate response to conventional chemotherapy, high rates of induction failure and persistent measurable residual disease (MRD) positivity, which translate in lower survival rates compared to other B-ALL subtypes. Therefore, innovative approaches are underway, including the integration of TKIs with frontline regimens and the early introduction of immunotherapy strategies (monoclonal antibodies, T-cell engagers, drug-conjugates, and CAR-T cells). Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HSCT) is currently recommended for adult BCR::ABL1-like ALL patients in first complete remission. However, the incorporation of novel therapies, a more accurate diagnosis and a more sensitive MRD assessment may modify the risk stratification and the indication for transplant in these patients.

Contributions of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology to the Diagnosis, Treatment, and Cure of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Part 2a (Numbers 11 to 15)

Pediatric hematology/oncology as a subspecialty has made major contributions to the diagnosis and treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia, the most common malignancy in the pediatric population. This impressive progress has yielded complete response rates of 98%, median durations of complete continuous remissions of over 5 years, and long-term leukemia-free survival and probable cure in 80% to 85% of patients. Sixty-five years ago, such data could only be imagined as future goals. This offering, part 2 of a planned trilogy, represents the second historical review from an admittedly elderly investigator, proud to have witnessed firsthand many of these advances. Part 2a contains numbers 11 to 15 and Part 2b consists of numbers 16 to 20. In consecutive order from the first 10: (11) more clues to the causation of ALL relating to in utero events and after birth, very early responses to infection; (12) the superiority of pediatric-inspired ALL trials for adolescents and young adults; (13) L-asparaginase; (14) chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CART); and (15) aggressive multiagent therapy for high-risk ALL introduced by BFM and CCG. My involvement with colleagues in some of these advances has provided a 65-year odyssey and its accompanying gratification and sense of accomplishment. Mostly, our goals have been achieved and have benefitted substantially our patients.

Thromboprophylaxis with intermediate dose enoxaparin during asparaginase containing induction for young adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Thrombosis rates among young adults receiving asparaginase (ASP) for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) can reach 34%, with highest risk during induction. Our institution implemented a standard practice of 1 mg/kg/day enoxaparin administered to young adults with ALL who are treated with ASP during induction. We performed a retrospective analysis of patients who received thromboprophylaxis with enoxaparin 1 mg/kg/day during ASP-containing induction for ALL at Oregon Health & Science University from 2012 to 2023. The primary outcome was the cumulative incidence of thrombosis during induction. Bleeding events were assessed. Sixty-two patients were included in our analysis. Four patients (6.5%; 95% CI 1.8%-15.7%) experienced a thrombotic event. Three events were catheter-associated and 1 event was a distal lower extremity deep vein thrombosis related to myositis. No cerebral sinus thromboses, thrombosis-related deaths or major bleeding events occurred. Intermediate-dose enoxaparin is a promising thromboprophylaxis strategy and warrants further prospective research.

Outcome of 421 adult patients with Philadelphia-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia treated under an intensive program inspired by the GIMEMA LAL1913 clinical trial: a Campus ALL study

The introduction of pediatric-inspired regimens in adult Philadelphia-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph- ALL) has significantly improved patients' prognosis. Within the Campus ALL network, we analyzed the outcome of adult Ph- ALL patients treated according to the GIMEMA LAL1913 protocol outside the clinical trial to compare the real-life data with the study results. We included 421 consecutive patients; median age 42 years. The complete remission (CR) rate after the first course of chemotherapy was 94%, and measurable residual disease (MRD) negativity after the third course was achieved in 72% of patients. The 3-year overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were 67% and 57%, respectively. In a multivariate analysis, MRD positivity negatively influenced DFS. In a time-dependent analysis including only very high-risk (VHR) and MRD positive cases, transplanted (hematopoietic stem cell transplantation [HSCT]) patients had a significantly better DFS than non-HSCT patients (P=0.0017). During induction, grade ≥2 pegaspargase-related hepato-toxicity was observed in 25% of patients (vs. 12% in the GIMEMA LAL1913 trial, P=0.0003). In this large, real-life cohort of Ph- ALL, we confirmed the very high CR rate and a superimposable OS and DFS compared to the GIMEMA LAL1913 clinical trial (CR rate after C1, 94% vs. 85%, P=0.0004; 3-year OS, 67% vs. 67%, P=0.94; 3-year DFS, 57% vs. 63%, P=0.17). HSCT confirms its important role in VHR and MRD-positive patients. The rate of pegaspargase-related toxicity was significantly higher in the real-life setting, emphasizing the importance of dose adjustment in the presence of risk factors to avoid excessive toxicity.

Sharing is caring: a network collaborative approach to identify and address barriers in accessing clinical trials in adolescents and young adults with leukemia and lymphoma

Leukemia and lymphoma are 2 common hematologic cancers in adolescents and young adults (AYAs, age 15-39 years at diagnosis); however, this population has historically had lower clinical trial enrollment and less dramatic improvements in overall survival compared to other age populations. Several unique challenges to delivering care to this population have affected drug development, clinical trial availability, accessibility, and acceptance, all of which impact clinical trial enrollment. Recently, several national and institutional collaborative approaches have been utilized to improve trial availability and accessibility for AYAs with hematologic malignancies. In this review, we discuss the known barriers to cancer clinical trial enrollment and potential approaches and solutions to improve enrollment for AYAs with leukemia and lymphoma on clinical trials.

Laboratory validation and clinical utility of next-generation sequencing-based IGH/TCR clonality testing for the monitoring of measurable residual disease in acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: real-world experience at Austin Pathology

Measurable residual disease (MRD) testing is an essential aspect of disease prognostication in acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and informs clinical decisions. The depth of MRD clearance is highly relevant and requires assays with sufficient sensitivity. Austin Pathology is one of the few laboratories in Australia currently utilising a fully validated and National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA)-accredited ultrasensitive next-generation sequencing (NGS) platform for MRD monitoring in ALL. This technology is based on the detection of clonal rearrangement of immunoglobulin and T cell receptor genes in leukaemic cells, and is capable of achieving a limit of detection at least one to two logs below that of multiparametric flow cytometry (MFC). In this retrospective analysis, we report a clonotype detection rate of up to 85.7% at diagnosis, and a concordance rate of 78.7% in MRD results between NGS and MFC. Of the discordant samples, nearly all were NGS+/MFC-, highlighting the superior sensitivity of NGS. The enhanced sensitivity is clinically relevant, as discordant MRD results often heralded fulminant relapse, and therefore offer clinicians additional lead time and a window of opportunity to initiate pre-emptive therapy. Notwithstanding a small and heterogeneous cohort, our real-world survival data indicate an intermediate relapse risk for NGS+/MFC- patients. In light of recent approval of Medicare rebatable ALL MRD testing, we discuss how NGS can complement other techniques such as MFC in personalising management strategies. We recommend routine clonality testing by NGS at diagnosis and use a multi-modality approach for subsequent MRD monitoring.

Short-Course Blinatumomab Treatment as a Bridge to Further Salvage Therapy for Relapsed/Refractory B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Retrospective Single-Center Study

BACKGROUD

The high cost of blinatumomab in full doses of full treatments has led to dose reduction and fewer treatment cycles for most patients in China. With current needs for cost-efficiency and resource management in health care, we retrospectively evaluated the clinical effects of short-course blinatumomab treatment for R/R Ph- B-ALL at our center.

METHODS

Blinatumomab was administered with 24-h continuous intravenous infusion (9 μg/day for the first 3 days and 28 μg/day for 6-10 days). The clinical data of 30 R/R B-ALL patients were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 25 patients (83.3%) including 13 (43.3%) with a high leukemic load (> 50%) achieved morphological CR. Twelve patients (40%) were MRD-negative. The estimated 2-year OS rate was 82.62%. The 2-year PFS rate was 78.35%. The estimated 2-year OS and PFS were significantly better in patients receiving further treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings provide novel insights into the optimization of blinatumomab therapy, proposing a viable treatment alternative that aligns with current needs for cost-efficiency and resource management in health care.

Patient-reported outcomes of treatment and adverse effects following acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a low- and middle-income country cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION

The scenario of adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia treated in Brazil has not been well described yet.

METHODS

Four hundred patients diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia from 1981 to 2019, registered in the Brazilian lymphoma and leukemia association (ABRALE) or their caregivers were interviewed by telephone to evaluate patient-reported perceptions of diagnosis, treatment and adverse effects.

RESULTS

Overall, 203 were male with a mean age of 15.7 years and median follow-up of 6.2 years. Main presenting symptoms were fever (39 %), bleeding/ecchymosis (38 %), intense fatigue (30 %), and musculoskeletal pain (28 %). The proportion of patients diagnosed within one week of symptoms onset differed between public (17.9 %) and private healthcare (31.1 %; p-value = 0.019). Additionally, diagnostic difficulties were higher in public care: 35 % versus 22.6 % (p-value = 0.034). Only 36 patients were able to report their treatment protocols; from a list of eight reported protocols, the most common were the Brazilian Childhood Cooperative Group for Treatment of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Children (GBTLI - 10/27.8 %) and Berlin-Frankfurt-Münster (BFM - 8/22.2 %). Seventy patients (17.5 %) required treatment modification, 37.1 % due to severe adverse effects; 21.7 % received short treatment duration (≤6 months) and 16 % proceeded to allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with 17/64 (27 %) reporting difficulties in this step, characterized as >3 months delay. Indication for transplantation was related to minimal residual disease and cranial radiotherapy; 41.7 % reported treatment-related adverse effects (range: 1-6), in particular: mood disorders (26.3 %), neurologic deficit (13.8 %), cognitive/memory impairment (12 %), and lung disease (15 %). Risk factors for adverse effects were age, indication of transplantation and living in a large city. Treatment disparities such as diagnostic and transplantation delays remain challenges in these patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Urgent interventions are needed to optimize healthcare and reduce adverse effects, especially in adolescent and young adult patients.

Predicting relapse in acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Outcomes in adult and pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have improved over successive generations due to rigorously conducted clinical trials and incorporation of novel therapeutic agents. Despite these advances, approximately 20% of high-risk pediatric patients and 50% of adults with ALL will fail to achieve long-term remission with frontline chemotherapy protocols, mostly due to relapse. The ability to predict which patients with ALL are more likely to relapse allows for early intensification of therapy and/or incorporation of novel immunotherapies with the goal of relapse prevention. In this review, we outline the most robust clinical predictors of relapse in ALL with a focus on measurable residual disease (MRD) and genomics. We also discuss application of these prognostic tools in different clinical settings including frontline treatment, pre-/post-allogeneic stem cell transplant, and pre-/post-Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy.

Mechanical thrombectomy by stent retriever for the treatment of arterial ischemic stroke in a pediatric patient with acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a case report

Introduction

Arterial ischemic stroke (AIS) caused by occlusion of large vessels in childhood is a devastating rare condition that can contribute to long-term disabilities. Childhood leukemia is identified as a recognized risk factor for ischemic strokes. Mechanical thrombectomy is the standard of care for large vessel occlusions in adults. However, there are still no definite recommendations regarding the application and outcomes of endovascular thrombectomy and the devices used for pediatric patients with arterial ischemic stroke.

Case presentation

The authors report a 13-year-old female with acute lymphoblastic leukemia who developed AIS due to thrombosis in the left internal carotid and proximal middle cerebral artery in the induction phase of treatment. The patient underwent successful mechanical thrombectomy via Solumbra by using "Embolus Retriever with Interlinked Cages (ERIC)" stent retriever and Sofia plus catheter, which resulted in successful recanalization of ICA and MCA.

Discussion

Selected pediatric patients with AIS due to large vessel occlusions can benefit from mechanical thrombectomy. Although the recently published literature demonstrated the efficacy and safety of MT in children, strong guideline recommendations are still absent. At present, the last AHA/ASA guidelines for early management of AIS recommends intravenous thrombolysis and endovascular therapy in adults, whereas controversy still exists in children. An urgent approach within the defined therapeutic time frame and a multidisciplinary team specialized in pediatric stroke with professionally trained interventional neuroradiologist is essential for achieving optimal results.

Conclusion

Mechanical thrombectomy provides promising results with high rates of arterial recanalization and favorable outcomes in pediatric patients with AIS.

Frontline treatment of adults with newly diagnosed B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia

In the past decade, there has been considerable progress in the treatment of adults with newly diagnosed B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. This evolution is the product of a more profound understanding of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia biology, innovations in measurable residual disease quantification that led to precise disease-risk stratification, adoption of contemporary paediatric-inspired regimens, inclusion of tyrosine kinase inhibitors in the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, and the introduction of immunotherapy in the frontline setting. Nevertheless, outcomes of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in adults are inferior compared with those of children, with excessive rates of treatment failure, and therapy-related morbidity and mortality. Simultaneously, transplant consolidation has continued to be used frequently for high-risk adults with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in first complete remission. Considering the rapid pace of evolution in acute lymphoblastic leukaemia management, novel trial designs are warranted to accelerate advancements and streamline approaches. Here, we summarise progress in the treatment of adults with newly diagnosed acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, which adds to previously published guidelines by focusing specifically on first-line decisions for B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and how to best personalise treatment. This Viewpoint also includes experiences with regimens and testing approaches currently available not only in Europe, but also on multiple continents with different practices and resources.

A Multicenter Analysis of Allogeneic Transplant Outcomes in Adults with Philadelphia-Like B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in First Complete Remission

Philadelphia-like acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph-like ALL) is a high-risk subset of B-cell ALL with a poor prognosis with conventional therapies. Diagnostic challenges and lack of standardized treatment protocols contribute to suboptimal outcomes. Additionally, while allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is frequently recommended in adults with Ph-like ALL given its high-risk nature, data supporting its role remains limited. We conducted a multicenter retrospective study evaluating outcomes of adult patients undergoing HCT in first complete remission (CR1) for Ph-like ALL compared to Philadelphia chromosome positive ALL (Ph-pos) and other B-cell Philadelphia negative (Ph-neg) ALL. Data was collected from five academic centers across the US, focusing on HCT outcomes for patients with ALL. Patients undergoing HCT in CR1 between 2006 and 2021 were included. Among 673 patients, 83 (12.3%) had Ph-like ALL, while 271 (40.3%) had Ph-pos and 319 (47.4%) had Ph-neg ALL. Outcomes following HCT in CR1 for Ph-like ALL were comparable to Ph-neg ALL, with no significant differences in 3-year overall survival (66% vs. 59%, P = .1), progression-free survival (59% and 54%, P = .1), or relapse rates (22% vs. 20%, P = .7). In contrast, Ph-pos ALL had superior outcomes; 3-year OS (75%, P < .001), PFS (70%, P = .001) and relapse (12%, P = .003), this is likely attributed to tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy. Our study suggests that HCT, coupled with effective 2nd line therapies can possibly mitigate the poor prognosis associated with Ph-like ALL and offers promising outcomes for patients with Ph-like ALL.

Frontline Ph-negative B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia treatment and the emerging role of blinatumomab

This narrative review seeks to summarize chemotherapeutic regimens commonly used for patients with newly diagnosed Philadelphia (Ph) chromosome-negative B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP-ALL) in the frontline setting and to describe the latest clinical research using the bispecific T-cell-engaging immunotherapy blinatumomab in the first-line treatment setting. Current standard-of-care chemotherapeutic backbones for newly diagnosed Ph-negative BCP-ALL are based on the same overarching treatment principle: to reduce disease burden to undetectable levels and maintain lasting remission. The adult treatment landscape has progressively evolved following the adoption of pediatric-inspired regimens. However, these intense regimens are not tolerated by all, and high-risk patients still have inferior outcomes. Therefore, designing more effective and less toxic strategies remains key to further improving efficacy and safety outcomes. Overall, the treatment landscape is evolving in the frontline, and integration of blinatumomab into different standard frontline regimens may improve overall outcomes with a favorable safety profile.

Temporal changes in survival among adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia diagnosed in the period 1998-2020 - A Danish nationwide population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have shown continuous improved overall survival (OS) up to 2015 for young adults with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). However, recently several important advances have been made justifying a more contemporary analysis of outcomes in adult with ALL.

METHODS

In this nationwide population-based cohort study, we included patients above 18 years of age diagnosed with ALL between January 1, 1998, and December 31, 2020. Patients were followed until December 31, 2022. By employing flexible parametric survival models, we quantified progress in OS using the key endpoint of 2-year age standardized OS for all patients and clinical subgroups of interest.

FINDINGS

This study includes 657 patients and demonstrates a significant improvement in OS over time with the 2-year age standardized OS increasing from 36·4 % (95 % CI, 27·0-45·8 %) for patients diagnosed in 1998 to 68·6 % (95 % CI, 60·2-76·9)for patients diagnosed in 2020, corresponding to an absolute increase in 2-year OS of 32·2 % points (95 % CI, 19·1-45·2). Stratified analysis revealed improvements for both Philadelphia chromosome positive and negative ALL, across cytogenetic risk groups, and for B- and T-cell ALL, whereas the latter did not reach statistical significance. Improvements were seen across all ages; however, most pronounced for Philadelphia chromosome positive ALL and patients below 60 years of age.

INTERPRETATION

These results show a universal and continuous improvement in the treatment of adult ALL. Currently, novel treatment combination and advances in cellular therapy occur rapidly, and we expect even further improvements in the years to come.

FUNDING

Northern Region of Denmark.

Venous thromboembolism in adolescents and young adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia treated on a pediatric-inspired regimen

Asparaginase (ASP)-containing regimens for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are associated with venous thromboembolism (VTE). We evaluated the prevalence, risk factors, role of prophylaxis and clinical impact of VTE among adolescents and young adult (AYA) patients (15-50 years) treated on Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) ALL protocols. The 1- and 2-year cumulative incidence of VTE were 31.9% (95% CI: 27.0%, 36.9%) and 33.5% (95% CI: 28.5%, 38.5%) respectively, with most events occurring during ASP-based consolidation phase (68.6%). VTE was more frequent in patients with overweight/obese vs. normal BMI (39.2% vs. 29.0%, p = 0.048). In a 1-year landmark analysis, the 4-year overall survival was 91.5%, without difference between patients with vs. without VTE (93.8% vs. 90.0%, p = 0.93). Relapse and non-relapse mortality rates were also similar. Among patients treated at Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center, cerebral sinus vein thrombosis occurred in 3.6% of patients (8.5% of VTE events) in comparison to pulmonary embolism (32.9%) and deep vein thromboses (58.6%, 24.4% line-associated). In a Cox regression model for VTE free-time, elevated BMI was associated with shorter VTE free-time (HR 1.94 [95% CI 1.13-3.35], p = 0.018), while low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) prophylaxis as time-varying covariate was not. In conclusion, we found that VTE was frequent in AYAs treated on DFCI ALL protocols but did not impact survival outcomes. Overweight/obese BMI increased risk for VTE.

Impact of Age on Pharmacogenomics and Treatment Outcomes of B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

PURPOSE

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) can occur across all age groups, with a strikingly higher cure rate in children compared with adults. However, the pharmacological basis of age-related differences in ALL treatment response remains unclear.

METHODS

Studying 767 children and 309 adults with newly diagnosed B-cell ALL enrolled on frontline trials at St Jude Children's Research Hospital, MD Anderson Cancer Center, the Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology, and the ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group, we determined the ex vivo sensitivity of leukemia cells to 21 drugs. Twenty-three ALL molecular subtypes were identified using RNA sequencing. We systematically characterized the associations between drug response and ALL genomics in children, adolescents and young adults, and elderly adults. We evaluated the effect of age-related gene expression signature on ALL treatment outcomes.

RESULTS

Seven ALL drugs (asparaginase, prednisolone, mercaptopurine, dasatinib, nelarabine, daunorubicin, and inotuzumab ozogamicin) showed differential activity between children and adults, of which six were explained by age-related differences in leukemia molecular subtypes. Adolescents and young adults showed similar patterns of drug resistance as older adults, relative to young children. Mercaptopurine exhibited subtype-independent greater sensitivity in children. Transcriptomic profiling uncovered subclusters within CRLF2-, DUX4-, and KMT2A-rearranged ALL that were linked to age and cytotoxic drug resistance. In particular, a subset of children had adult-like ALL on the basis of leukemia gene expression patterns across subtypes, despite their chronological age. Resistant to cytotoxic drugs, children with adult-like ALL exhibited poor prognosis in pediatric ALL trials, even after adjusting for age and minimal residual diseases.

CONCLUSION

Our results provide pharmacogenomic insights into age-related disparities in ALL cure rates and identify leukemia prognostic features for treatment individualization across age groups.

Are delays in diagnosis and treatment of acute leukemia in a middle-income country associated with poor outcomes? A retrospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Acute leukemias (ALs) are aggressive diseases that lead to death without medical attention. We evaluated the association between delays in diagnosis and poor outcomes in AL by evaluating the symptom onset to treatment intervals in adults with newly diagnosed AL and their effect on an early death (ED).

METHODS

We assessed adults diagnosed with AL between 2015 and 2020 and evaluated baseline characteristics, the patient interval (PI), diagnostic interval (DI), treatment interval (TI) and the total time interval (TTI) to determine ED-associated factors.

MAIN RESULTS

We assessed 102 patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), 57 with acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML) and 29 with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). Median interval days were PI 14, DI 10, TI 4 and TTI 31.5. The TI and TTI intervals were lower in APL than in ALL and AML; TI 1 vs. 4 and 3 (p = 0.001) and TTI 21 vs. 31 and 35 (p = 0.016). The 30-day and 60-day EDs were 13.8% and 20.7%, mainly infections. ECOG > 2 (OR = 15.0) and PI < 7 days (OR = 4.06) were associated with 30-day ED; AML (OR = 2.69), high-risk (OR = 3.34), albumin < 3.5 g/dl (OR = 5) and platelets < 20 × 103/uL (OR = 2.71) with a 60-day ED.

CONCLUSION

None of the interval-delays were associated with an ED. Intervals seemed to be longer in patients without an ED, except for the TI, probably because of "the waiting time paradox." Aggressive manifestations of disease may lead to shorter diagnostic intervals, but increased mortality.

A pediatric-inspired regimen for adolescent and adult patients with Philadelphia chromosome-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a prospective study from China

Several international centers have used and reported on pediatric-inspired regimens to treat adolescent and adult patients with Philadelphia chromosome-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph- ALL). However, there is a lack of prospective data from the Chinese population. We performed a prospective study with a pediatric-inspired regimen (IH-2014 regimen) to treat adolescent and adult Ph- ALL patients in our center. From 2014 to 2021, a total of 415 patients aged between 14 and 65 years (median age, 27 years) were included in this study. After a median follow-up of 40.8 months, the 5-year overall survival, disease-free survival, and event-free survival rates were 53.8%, 51.1% and 45.0%, respectively. The regimen was generally well tolerated and safe, and the overall chemotherapy-related mortality was 3.6%. Age ≥40 years and persistent detectable minimal residual disease (MRD) after induction were independent prognostic factors. Traditional risk factors for adult patients combined with post-induction MRD had predictive significance for survival and relapse, which is helpful in the selection of subsequent treatment. Patients with high-risk factors who can achieve a deep MRD response after induction do not derive benefit from allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Impact of pegaspargase dose capping on incidence of pegaspargase-related adverse events in adults

INTRODUCTION

Asparaginase derivatives are essential components of the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in adolescent and young adult patients. However, their associated toxicities limit wider use in older populations. This study seeks to determine if the practice of capping the pegaspargase dose at 3750 units reduces the risk of related adverse events in adults.

METHODS

Adverse event data were retrospectively collected 28 days following each administration of pegaspargase in a single center. Doses were categorized as either capped (≤3750 units) (n = 57, 47.5%) or non-capped (>3750 units) (n = 63, 52.5%). The primary endpoint of this study was the composite incidence of serious pegaspargase-related adverse events, defined as grade 3 or higher.

RESULTS

Of the 120 doses administered, 47 (39.2%) were administered to patients  > 39 years. For the primary endpoint, 26 doses (45.6%) in the dose capped group versus 22 doses (34.9%) in the non-dose capped group were associated with serious pegaspargase-related adverse events (p = 0.23). Isolated laboratory abnormalities accounted for all hepatotoxicity and pancreatic toxicity events, while venous thromboembolism and bleeding occurred after 8.3% and 13.3% of doses, respectively. Multivariate analysis of the primary outcome to adjust for differences in baseline characteristics found no difference between groups (OR 2.56 (0.84, 7.77, p = 0.098)).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of serious clinical toxicities was low in this study, particularly pegaspargase-related venous thromboembolism. This suggests that the practice of capping pegaspargase doses at 3750 units, coupled with vigilant monitoring and prophylaxis for pegaspargase-related adverse events, can allow for the inclusion of this drug in the treatment of older individuals.

Center effect on allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation outcomes for B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia

This nationwide study retrospectively examined the center effect on allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) for adult B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The cohort analyses were separated into Philadelphia chromosome (Ph)-positive and -negative cases. The patients were divided into low- and high-volume groups according to the number of allo-HSCTs at each facility. The primary endpoint was 5-year overall survival (OS). This study included 1156 low-volume and 1329 high-volume Ph-negative and 855 low-volume and 926 high-volume Ph-positive cases. In Ph-negative cases, 5-year OS was significantly higher in the high-volume centers at 52.7% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 49.9-55.5) versus 46.8% (95% CI: 43.8-49.7) for the low-volume centers (P < 0.01). Multivariate analysis identified high volume as a favorable prognostic factor (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.81 [95% CI: 0.72-0.92], P < 0.01). Subgroup analysis in Ph-negative cases revealed that the center effects were more evident in patients aged ≥40 years (HR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.61-0.86, P < 0.01) and those receiving cord blood transplantation (HR: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.48-0.79, P < 0.01). In Ph-positive cases, no significant difference was observed between the high and low-volume centers for 5-year OS (59.5% [95% CI: 56.2-62.7] vs. 54.9% [95% CI: 51.3-58.3], P = 0.054). In multivariate analysis, center volume did not emerge as a significant prognostic indicator. This study showed center effects on survival in Ph-negative but not in Ph-positive cases, highlighting the heterogeneity of the center effect in allo-HSCT for B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Collaborative efforts among transplant centers and further validation are essential to improve outcomes.

Successful rechallenge with Erwinia chrysanthemi asparaginase after pegaspargase-induced hypertriglyceridemia: a case report

Polyethylene-glycolated Escherichia coli-derived l-asparaginase (pegaspargase, pASP) is an essential component of paediatric-inspired regimens for the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia/lymphoma; nonetheless, is characterised by severe and potentially life-threatening toxicities, such as hypertriglyceridemia. Grades 3-4 events have been reported in ~1%-18% of paediatric patients and in sparse reports in adults. There is limited evidence on the safety of asparaginase rechallenge in patients experiencing severe pASP-related hypertriglyceridemia. Herein we present the case of a young adult patient diagnosed with T-LBL who experienced an asymptomatic severe pASP-related hypertriglyceridemia and was safely re-exposed to ASP using Erwinia chrysanthemi asparaginase (crisantapase), with only mild transient hypertriglyceridemia recurrence.

Pediatric Leukemia Roadmaps Are a Guide for Positive Metastatic Bone Sarcoma Trials

ALL cures require many MRD therapies. This strategy should drive experiments and trials in metastatic bone sarcomas.

Allogeneic stem cell transplant with TBI-based myeloablative conditioning in adolescents and young adults with Philadelphia chromosome-negative ALL treated with pediatric protocols

To investigate the safety of total body irradiation-based myeloablative conditioning (TBI-MAC) in adolescent and young adult (AYA) Philadelphia chromosome (Ph)-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients treated with pediatric protocols, treatment outcomes of 106 AYA patients aged 16-39 years old undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplant (allo-SCT) with TBI-MAC in the first remission were compared according to chemotherapy types before transplant. Pediatric and adult protocols were used in 56 and 50 of the patients, respectively. The cumulative incidence (CI) of non-relapse mortality (NRM) and the overall survival (OS) rates were not significantly different between the pediatric-protocol and adult-protocol group (NRM: 4 % vs. 14 % at five years post-transplant, respectively, p = 0.26; OS: 81 % vs. 66 %, respectively, p = 0.14). Multivariate analysis for NRM revealed that a performance status >0 (hazard ratio [HR] = 4.8) and transplant due to chemotherapy toxicities (HR = 3.5) were independent risk factors, but a pediatric protocol was not (HR = 0.48). The CI of NRM and the OS rates were also similar among patients aged over 24 years old. These findings suggested that conventional allo-SCT with TBI-MAC can be performed without increasing NRM in AYA patients with Ph-negative ALL even after pediatric protocols.