1
|
Graff Z, Wachter F, Eapen M, Lehmann L, Cooper T. Navigating Treatment Options and Communication in Relapsed Pediatric AML. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2024; 44:e438690. [PMID: 38862135 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_438690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Despite improved outcomes in newly diagnosed pediatric AML, relapsed disease remains a therapeutic challenge. Factors contributing to slow progress in improving outcomes include inherent challenges in pediatric clinical trial accrual and the scarcity of novel targeted/immunotherapy agents available for pediatric development. This paradigm is changing, however, as international collaboration grows in parallel with the development of promising targeted agents. In this review, we discuss the therapeutic landscape of relapsed pediatric AML, including conventional chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and the challenges of drug approvals in this patient population. We highlight current efforts to improve communication among academia, industry, and regulatory authorities and discuss the importance of international collaboration to improve access to new therapies. Among the therapeutic options, we highlight the approach to second hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) and discuss which patients are most likely to benefit from this potentially curative intervention. Importantly, we acknowledge the challenges in providing these high-risk interventions to our patients and their families and the importance of shared communication and decision making when considering early-phase clinical trials and second HSCT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Graff
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology, Oncology, and BMT, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Franziska Wachter
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Mary Eapen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Leslie Lehmann
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Todd Cooper
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Takahashi T, Lake AJ, Wachter F, Calderon FA, Dandoy C, Keating AK. Effects of Total Body Irradiation on Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation Outcomes in Pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia with Prior Central Nervous System Involvement. Transplant Cell Ther 2024:S2666-6367(24)00410-X. [PMID: 38763417 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtct.2024.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
The implications of previous central nervous system (CNS) involvement in children with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) remain inadequately understood. Patients with CNS disease require more upfront CNS-directed intrathecal therapy, but little is known about whether transplant conditioning regimens should be intensified or if previous CNS involvement impacts post-HCT outcomes. While total body irradiation (TBI) remains standard for pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia myeloablative conditioning, it has been largely replaced with chemotherapy-only myeloablation in pediatric AML, primarily due to toxicity and late effects associated with TBI. In the setting of previous CNS involvement, it has been suggested that TBI-based myeloablation may have advantages due to superior CNS tissue penetration and thus decreased rates of AML relapse post-HCT. We analyzed a publicly available dataset derived from the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplantation Research (CIBMTR) registry to characterize the impact of TBI in HCT preparative regimens in pediatric AML patients with a history of CNS involvement. The study dataset was obtained from the CIBMTR data repository. The study cohort included patients aged ≤21 years who underwent initial allogeneic HCT with myeloablative conditioning for de novo AML in the first or second complete remission (CR) between 2008 and 2016, who provided consent for research. Patients with mismatched related donor transplants and noncalcineurin inhibitor graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis were excluded. The dataset was further modified by excluding patients with missing disease site data or those with non-CNS extramedullary disease. Patients were categorized as CNS-positive or -negative AML (AML-CNS(+) and AML-CNS(-), respectively) based on the disease status at diagnosis. The Cox regression model and Fine-Grey methods were employed to delineate the effects of TBI and CNS disease on key HCT outcomes. The study cohort comprised 550 pediatric AML patients, of which 25% (n = 136) were AML-CNS(+). CNS involvement was more prevalent in patients aged 0 to 3 years, patients who were in the second CR, and those with a mismatched unrelated donor or umbilical cord blood. AML-CNS(+) patients demonstrated a lower relapse rate (hazard ratio: 0.50, 95% confidence interval: 0.33 to 0.76) compared to AML-CNS(-) patients, with comparable disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) (P = .10 and 0.20, respectively) in the two cohorts. The entire TBI-treated cohort showed an association with increased risks of grade 2 to 4 acute GVHD, bloodstream infections, and endocrine dysfunction. TBI use within the AML-CNS(+) cohort was associated with a lower relapse rate but increased risks of nonrelapse mortality and a trend of higher grade 3 to 4 acute GVHD. In this population-based analysis of pediatric patients with de novo AML undergoing HCT, TBI-based conditioning regimens did not confer an advantage in DFS or OS compared to non-TBI regimens, irrespective of CNS disease status. However, TBI use was associated with increased risks of short- and long-term comorbidities. These findings underscore the need for careful consideration of TBI in pediatric AML.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takuto Takahashi
- Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant, Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Alexander J Lake
- Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant, Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Franziska Wachter
- Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant, Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Francesca Alvarez Calderon
- Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant, Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Christopher Dandoy
- Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant, Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Amy K Keating
- Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant, Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Krieger E, Qayyum R, Toor A. Increased donor inhibitory KIR are associated with reduced GVHD and improved survival following HLA-matched unrelated donor HCT in paediatric acute leukaemia. Br J Haematol 2024; 204:1935-1943. [PMID: 38442905 PMCID: PMC11090758 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.19356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Killer immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) and KIR-ligand (KIRL) interactions play an important role in natural killer cell-mediated effects after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT). Previous work has shown that accounting for known KIR-KIRL interactions may identify donors with optimal NK cell-mediated alloreactivity in the adult transplant setting. Paediatric acute leukaemia patients were retrospectively analysed, and KIR-KIRL combinations and maximal inhibitory KIR ligand (IM-KIR) scores were determined. Clinical outcomes were examined using a series of graphs depicting clinical events and endpoints. The graph methodology demonstrated that prognostic variables significant in the occurrence of specific clinical endpoints remained significant for relevant downstream events. KIR-KIRL combinations were significantly predictive for reduced grade 3-4 aGVHD likelihood, in patients transplanted with increased inhibitory KIR gene content and IM-KIR = 5 scores. Improvements were also observed in associated outcomes for both ALL and AML patients, including relapse-free survival, GRFS and overall survival. This study demonstrates that NK cell KIR HLA interactions may be relevant to the paediatric acute leukaemia transplant setting. Reduction in aGVHD suggests KIR effects may extend beyond NK cells. Moving forward clinical trials utilizing donors with a higher iKIR should be considered for URD HCT in paediatric recipients with acute leukaemia to optimize clinical outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Krieger
- Department of Pediatrics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Rehan Qayyum
- Department of Internal Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Amir Toor
- Lehigh Valley Health Network, Allentown, PA and Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dogliotti I, Levis M, Martin A, Bartoncini S, Felicetti F, Cavallin C, Maffini E, Cerrano M, Bruno B, Ricardi U, Giaccone L. Maintain Efficacy and Spare Toxicity: Traditional and New Radiation-Based Conditioning Regimens in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:865. [PMID: 38473227 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Novelty in total body irradiation (TBI) as part of pre-transplant conditioning regimens lacked until recently, despite the developments in the field of allogeneic stem cell transplants. Long-term toxicities have been one of the major concerns associated with TBI in this setting, although the impact of TBI is not so easy to discriminate from that of chemotherapy, especially in the adult population. More recently, lower-intensity TBI and different approaches to irradiation (namely, total marrow irradiation, TMI, and total marrow and lymphoid irradiation, TMLI) were implemented to keep the benefits of irradiation and limit potential harm. TMI/TMLI is an alternative to TBI that delivers more selective irradiation, with healthy tissues being better spared and the control of the radiation dose delivery. In this review, we discussed the potential radiation-associated long-term toxicities and their management, summarized the evidence regarding the current indications of traditional TBI, and focused on the technological advances in radiotherapy that have resulted in the development of TMLI. Finally, considering the most recent published trials, we postulate how the role of radiotherapy in the setting of allografting might change in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irene Dogliotti
- Allogeneic Transplant and Cellular Therapy Unit, Division of Hematology, Department of Oncology, University Hospital A.O.U. "Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino", University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Mario Levis
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Aurora Martin
- Allogeneic Transplant and Cellular Therapy Unit, Division of Hematology, Department of Oncology, University Hospital A.O.U. "Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino", University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Sara Bartoncini
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Francesco Felicetti
- Division of Oncological Endocrinology, Department of Oncology, University Hospital A.O.U. "Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino", 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Chiara Cavallin
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Enrico Maffini
- Hematology Institute "Seràgnoli", IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Cerrano
- Division of Hematology, University Hospital A.O.U. "Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino", 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Benedetto Bruno
- Allogeneic Transplant and Cellular Therapy Unit, Division of Hematology, Department of Oncology, University Hospital A.O.U. "Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino", University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Umberto Ricardi
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Luisa Giaccone
- Allogeneic Transplant and Cellular Therapy Unit, Division of Hematology, Department of Oncology, University Hospital A.O.U. "Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino", University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Torino, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhang D, Gu M. Metabolic/endocrine disorders in survivors of childhood-onset and cranial radiotherapy- treated ALL/NHL: a meta-analysis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:91. [PMID: 37794442 PMCID: PMC10548660 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01137-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cranial radiotherapy (CRT) is recommended to high-risk pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia or aggressive non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (ALL/NHL). However, effects of CRT treatment on the development of metabolic/endocrine disorders remain unclear. This meta-analysis aimed to identify metabolic and endocrine disturbances in survivors of childhood-onset and CRT-treated ALL/NHL. METHODS Different online databases were searched using restricted search fields. Follow-up data and outcome measurements, including the prevalence of growth hormone (GH) deficiency, hypothyroidism, vitamin D deficiency, overweight/obesity, and hypogonadism were recorded. The height data was indicated by height-standard deviation score (height-SDS). Statistical estimates such as odds ratio (OR) and weighted standard mean difference (SMD) were compared between additional CRT treatment group and non-CRT treatment group. Study-to-study heterogeneity was calculated by calculating I-squared statistic, and fixed/random effect was applied to synthesize and analyze extracted data. RESULTS Fifteen studies were included (4269 patients in total). Adult height SDS was lower in CRT-treated patients (pooled SMD = -0.581, 95% CI: -0.649--0.512), and CRT-treated patients were likely to develop short stature (pooled OR = 2.289, 95% CI:1.674-3.130). Regardless of the study year, which potentially reflects the state-of-the-art CRT technique, the prevalence of short stature and GH deficiency was time-independent. Additionally, previous CRT can increase the risk of precocious puberty (pooled OR = 2.937, 95% CI: 1.281-6.736), hypothyroidism (pooled OR = 2.057, 95% CI:1.510-2.801), and hypogonadism (pooled OR = 3.098, 95% CI:2.521-3.807). However, the risk of being overweight/obese was similar between the patients with and without CRT (pooled OR = 1.278, 95% CI: 0.675-2.421). CONCLUSION Childhood-onset and CRT-treated ALL/NHL survivors are likely to have shorter height, precocious puberty, hypothyroidism, and hypogonadism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Zhang
- Department of Pediatric Endocrine and Metabolism, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Min Gu
- Department of Pediatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36, Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, 110004, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Loscocco GG, Vannucchi AM. Myeloid sarcoma: more and less than a distinct entity. Ann Hematol 2023:10.1007/s00277-023-05288-1. [PMID: 37286874 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-023-05288-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Myeloid sarcoma (MS) is a distinct entity among myeloid neoplasms defined as a tumour mass of myeloid blasts occurring at an anatomical site other than the bone marrow, in most cases concomitant with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), rarely without bone marrow involvement. MS may also represent the blast phase of chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). However, the clinical and molecular heterogeneity of AML, as highlighted by the 2022 World Health Organization (WHO) and International Consensus (ICC) classifications, indirectly define MS more as a set of heterogeneous and proteiform diseases, rather than a homogeneous single entity. Diagnosis is challenging and relies mainly on histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and imaging. Molecular and cytogenetic analysis of MS tissue, particularly in isolated cases, should be performed to refine the diagnosis, and thus assign prognosis guiding treatment decisions. If feasible, systemic therapies used in AML remission induction should be employed, even in isolated MS. Role and type of consolidation therapy are not univocally acknowledged, and systemic therapies, radiotherapy, or allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) should be considered. In the present review, we discuss recent information on MS, focusing on diagnosis, molecular findings, and treatments also considering targetable mutations by recently approved AML drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe G Loscocco
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, CRIMM, Center for Research and Innovation of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Doctorate School GenOMec, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro M Vannucchi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, CRIMM, Center for Research and Innovation of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Frietsch JJ, Flossdorf S, Beck JF, Kröger N, Fleischhauer K, Dreger P, Schetelig J, Bornhäuser M, Hochhaus A, Hilgendorf I. Outcomes after allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation in young adults in Germany. Br J Haematol 2022; 201:308-318. [PMID: 36573337 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.18610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Young adults (YA) represent a minority among recipients of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). In order to describe the outcome of YA following HSCT in Germany, 9299 patients who were registered with the German Registry for Stem Cell Transplantation were included in this retrospective analysis of the years 1998-2019. The impact of the variables, such as patient age and sex, sex differences, stem cell source, donor type, conditioning, year of HSCT, the diagnosis, and the achieved remission status were tested in univariable and multivariable analysis for overall, event-free and relapse-free survival as well as for the cumulative incidences of non-relapse and therapy-related mortality. Altogether, the outcome of YA after HSCT improved over time and was determined by the underlying disease, the age at disease onset, stem cell source, and donor type. Patients were most likely to die from relapse, and survival of HSCT recipients after 10 years was reduced by more than half in comparison to the general population of YA. Deeper understanding of modifiable risk factors may be gained by studies comparing the outcome of YA post-HSCT with that of children, adolescents and elderly patients. A deliberate and strong patient selection may further improve mortality rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jochen J. Frietsch
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II, Hämatologie und internistische Onkologie Universitätsklinikum Jena Jena Germany
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik II Universitätsklinikum Würzburg Würzburg Germany
| | - Sarah Flossdorf
- Deutsches Register für Stammzelltransplantationen e.V., DRST Ulm Germany
- Institut für Medizinische Informatik, Biometrie und Epidemiologie Universitätsklinikum Essen Essen Germany
| | - James F. Beck
- Klinik für Kinder‐ und Jugendmedizin Universitätsklinikum Jena Jena Germany
| | - Nicolaus Kröger
- Deutsches Register für Stammzelltransplantationen e.V., DRST Ulm Germany
- Klinik für Stammzelltransplantation Universitätsklinikum Hamburg‐Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
| | - Katharina Fleischhauer
- Deutsches Register für Stammzelltransplantationen e.V., DRST Ulm Germany
- Institut für Zelltherapeutische Forschung Universitätsklinikum Essen Essen Germany
| | - Peter Dreger
- Deutsches Register für Stammzelltransplantationen e.V., DRST Ulm Germany
- Medizinische Klinik V Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg Heidelberg Germany
| | - Johannes Schetelig
- Deutsches Register für Stammzelltransplantationen e.V., DRST Ulm Germany
- Medizinische Klinik I Universitätsklinikum Carl Gustav Carus an der TU Dresden Dresden Germany
| | - Martin Bornhäuser
- Medizinische Klinik I Universitätsklinikum Carl Gustav Carus an der TU Dresden Dresden Germany
| | - Andreas Hochhaus
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II, Hämatologie und internistische Onkologie Universitätsklinikum Jena Jena Germany
| | - Inken Hilgendorf
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II, Hämatologie und internistische Onkologie Universitätsklinikum Jena Jena Germany
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation in the Treatment of Pediatric Acute Myelogenous Leukemia and Myelodysplastic Syndromes: Guidelines from the American Society of Transplantation and Cellular Therapy. Transplant Cell Ther 2022; 28:530-545. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtct.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
9
|
Could (should) we abandon total body irradiation for conditioning in children with leukemia. Blood Rev 2022; 56:100966. [DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2022.100966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
|
10
|
Hoeben BAW, Wong JYC, Fog LS, Losert C, Filippi AR, Bentzen SM, Balduzzi A, Specht L. Total Body Irradiation in Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation for Paediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia: Review of the Literature and Future Directions. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:774348. [PMID: 34926349 PMCID: PMC8678472 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.774348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Total body irradiation (TBI) has been a pivotal component of the conditioning regimen for allogeneic myeloablative haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in very-high-risk acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) for decades, especially in children and young adults. The myeloablative conditioning regimen has two aims: (1) to eradicate leukaemic cells, and (2) to prevent rejection of the graft through suppression of the recipient's immune system. Radiotherapy has the advantage of achieving an adequate dose effect in sanctuary sites and in areas with poor blood supply. However, radiotherapy is subject to radiobiological trade-offs between ALL cell destruction, immune and haematopoietic stem cell survival, and various adverse effects in normal tissue. To diminish toxicity, a shift from single-fraction to fractionated TBI has taken place. However, HSCT and TBI are still associated with multiple late sequelae, leaving room for improvement. This review discusses the past developments of TBI and considerations for dose, fractionation and dose-rate, as well as issues regarding TBI setup performance, limitations and possibilities for improvement. TBI is typically delivered using conventional irradiation techniques and centres have locally developed heterogeneous treatment methods and ways to achieve reduced doses in several organs. There are, however, limitations in options to shield organs at risk without compromising the anti-leukaemic and immunosuppressive effects of conventional TBI. Technological improvements in radiotherapy planning and delivery with highly conformal TBI or total marrow irradiation (TMI), and total marrow and lymphoid irradiation (TMLI) have opened the way to investigate the potential reduction of radiotherapy-related toxicities without jeopardising efficacy. The demonstration of the superiority of TBI compared with chemotherapy-only conditioning regimens for event-free and overall survival in the randomised For Omitting Radiation Under Majority age (FORUM) trial in children with high-risk ALL makes exploration of the optimal use of TBI delivery mandatory. Standardisation and comprehensive reporting of conventional TBI techniques as well as cooperation between radiotherapy centres may help to increase the ratio between treatment outcomes and toxicity, and future studies must determine potential added benefit of innovative conformal techniques to ultimately improve quality of life for paediatric ALL patients receiving TBI-conditioned HSCT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bianca A. W. Hoeben
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Jeffrey Y. C. Wong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, City of Hope National Medical Center and Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, United States
| | - Lotte S. Fog
- Alfred Health Radiation Oncology, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Christoph Losert
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Andrea R. Filippi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo and University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Søren M. Bentzen
- Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Adriana Balduzzi
- Stem Cell Transplantation Unit, Clinica Paediatrica Università degli Studi di Milano Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Lena Specht
- Department of Oncology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
The Role of Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Pediatric Leukemia. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10173790. [PMID: 34501237 PMCID: PMC8432223 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10173790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) offers potentially curative treatment for many children with high-risk or relapsed acute leukemia (AL), thanks to the combination of intense preparative radio/chemotherapy and the graft-versus-leukemia (GvL) effect. Over the years, progress in high-resolution donor typing, choice of conditioning regimen, graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) prophylaxis and supportive care measures have continuously improved overall transplant outcome, and recent successes using alternative donors have extended the potential application of allotransplantation to most patients. In addition, the importance of minimal residual disease (MRD) before and after transplantation is being increasingly clarified and MRD-directed interventions may be employed to further ameliorate leukemia-free survival after allogeneic HSCT. These advances have occurred in parallel with continuous refinements in chemotherapy protocols and the development of targeted therapies, which may redefine the indications for HSCT in the coming years. This review discusses the role of HSCT in childhood AL by analysing transplant indications in both acute lymphoblastic and acute myeloid leukemia, together with current and most promising strategies to further improve transplant outcome, including optimization of conditioning regimen and MRD-directed interventions.
Collapse
|
12
|
Late outcomes in survivors of childhood acute myeloid leukemia: a report from the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort Study. Leukemia 2021; 35:2258-2273. [PMID: 33495497 PMCID: PMC8310532 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-021-01134-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Cumulative burden of chronic health conditions and neurocognitive and physical function were examined among survivors of childhood acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treated with hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT; n = 66) or conventional therapy (CT; n = 67). Survivors and controls underwent a comprehensive clinical assessment, and health conditions were graded using a modified version of the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events. By age 40 years, HCT and CT survivors had an average 17.4 (95% confidence interval [CI] 14.6-20.1) and 9.3 (7.7-11.1) grade 1-4 conditions versus 3.8 (3.3-4.2) in community controls. Compared to controls, HCT survivors had a higher prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia (45.5% vs. 18.3%), hypercholesterolemia (47.0% vs. 30.9%), hypothyroidism (27.3% vs. 4.0%), and primary hypogonadism (p < 0.001). CT survivors had a higher prevalence of cardiomyopathy (11.9% vs. 2.7%) and hypertension (53.7% vs. 44.3%). Neurocognitive impairment was elevated across all domains compared to controls but did not differ by treatment modality. Compared to controls, a higher proportion of HCT survivors had impairments in strength and endurance; whereas flexibility and mobility impairments were noted among CT survivors. Despite successful advances in childhood AML therapy, many therapeutic exposures remain unchanged. These findings support ongoing investigations of novel therapies and strategies to ameliorate the risk of late morbidities.
Collapse
|
13
|
Egan G, Chopra Y, Mourad S, Chiang KY, Hitzler J. Treatment of acute myeloid leukemia in children: A practical perspective. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68:e28979. [PMID: 33844444 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.28979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous disease that requires a multifaceted treatment approach. Although outcomes for low-risk AML have improved significantly over recent decades, high-risk AML continues to be associated with an adverse prognosis. Recent advances in molecular diagnostics, risk stratification, and supportive care have contributed to improvements in outcomes in pediatric AML. Targeted approaches, for example, the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors to treat FLT3-ITD AML, offer promise and are currently undergoing clinical investigation in pediatric patients. New approaches to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, including the use of haploidentical donors, are significantly expanding donor options for patients with high-risk AML. This review provides an overview of recent advances in the treatment of pediatric AML that are likely to have clinical impact and reshape the standard of care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grace Egan
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yogi Chopra
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Stephanie Mourad
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, Montreal Children's Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Kuang-Yueh Chiang
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Johann Hitzler
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Qayed M, Ahn KW, Kitko CL, Johnson MH, Shah NN, Dvorak C, Mellgren K, Friend BD, Verneris MR, Leung W, Toporski J, Levine J, Chewning J, Wayne A, Kapoor U, Triplett B, Schultz KR, Yanik GA, Eapen M. A validated pediatric disease risk index for allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. Blood 2021; 137:983-993. [PMID: 33206937 PMCID: PMC7918183 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2020009342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A disease risk index (DRI) that was developed for adults with hematologic malignancy who were undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation is also being used to stratify children and adolescents by disease risk. Therefore, to develop and validate a DRI that can be used to stratify those with AML and ALL by their disease risk, we analyzed 2569 patients aged <18 years with acute myeloid (AML; n = 1224) or lymphoblastic (ALL; n = 1345) leukemia who underwent hematopoietic cell transplantation. Training and validation subsets for each disease were generated randomly with 1:1 assignment to the subsets, and separate prognostic models were derived for each disease. For AML, 4 risk groups were identified based on age, cytogenetic risk, and disease status, including minimal residual disease status at transplantation. The 5-year leukemia-free survival for low (0 points), intermediate (2, 3, 5), high (7, 8), and very high (>8) risk groups was 78%, 53%, 40%, and 25%, respectively (P < .0001). For ALL, 3 risk groups were identified based on age and disease status, including minimal residual disease status at transplantation. The 5-year leukemia-free survival for low (0 points), intermediate (2-4), and high (≥5) risk groups was 68%, 51%, and 33%, respectively (P < .0001). We confirmed that the risk groups could be applied to overall survival, with 5-year survival ranging from 80% to 33% and 73% to 42% for AML and ALL, respectively (P < .0001). This validated pediatric DRI, which includes age and residual disease status, can be used to facilitate prognostication and stratification of children with AML and ALL for allogeneic transplantation.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Age Factors
- Allografts
- Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/therapeutic use
- Child
- Child, Preschool
- Cohort Studies
- Combined Modality Therapy
- Disease-Free Survival
- Female
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
- Humans
- Infant
- Kaplan-Meier Estimate
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/mortality
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/pathology
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/therapy
- Male
- Neoplasm, Residual
- Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma/drug therapy
- Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma/mortality
- Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma/pathology
- Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma/therapy
- Prognosis
- Random Allocation
- Risk Assessment
- Risk Factors
- Severity of Illness Index
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muna Qayed
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
- Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
| | - Kwang Woo Ahn
- Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research, Department of Medicine, and
- Division of Biostatics, Institute for Heath and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Carrie L Kitko
- Division of Hematology/Stem Cell Transplant, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Mariam H Johnson
- Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research, Department of Medicine, and
| | - Nirali N Shah
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD
| | - Christopher Dvorak
- Division of Pediatric Allergy, Immunology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Karin Mellgren
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Brian D Friend
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, TX
| | - Michael R Verneris
- Division of Cancer and Blood Disorders, Department of Pediatrics, University Of Colorado, Aurora, CO
| | - Wing Leung
- Pediatric Academic Clinical Program, Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Medical School, Singapore
| | - Jacek Toporski
- Section of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, Immunology and Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - John Levine
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Joseph Chewning
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Alan Wayne
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Urvi Kapoor
- Department of Pediatrics, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY
| | - Brandon Triplett
- Division of Bone Marrow Transplantation, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Kirk R Schultz
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant, British Columbia's Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Gregory A Yanik
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI; and
| | - Mary Eapen
- Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research, Department of Medicine, and
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Hoeben BA, Pazos M, Albert MH, Seravalli E, Bosman ME, Losert C, Boterberg T, Manapov F, Ospovat I, Milla SM, Abakay CD, Engellau J, Kos G, Supiot S, Bierings M, Janssens GO. Towards homogenization of total body irradiation practices in pediatric patients across SIOPE affiliated centers. A survey by the SIOPE radiation oncology working group. Radiother Oncol 2021; 155:113-119. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2020.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|