Psychometric properties of the Chilean version of the quality of life questionnaire for multiple myeloma

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the internal consistency and construct validity of the QLQ-MY20 for assessing the quality of life in multiple myeloma survivors in Chile.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study conducted between March 2020 and December 2022. It involved 118 individuals from two public hospitals. The QLQ-C30 and QLQ-MY20 questionnaires were used. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's alpha(α), and construct validity was evaluated through hypothesis testing (Mann-Whitney and Spearman correlation).

RESULTS

The average age of participants was 67.2 years (SD=9.2). Internal consistency for the complete scale was α=0.779, for the "disease symptoms" dimension α=0.671, for the "side effects of treatments" dimension α=0.538, and for the "future perspective" dimension α=0.670. Four of the five construct validity hypotheses were confirmed: women, individuals with worse performance status, those with pain, and those with worse fatigue showed more symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

The Chilean version of the QLQ-MY20 demonstrates adequate internal consistency and construct validity.

Outcomes of Modified Mayo Stage IIIa and IIIb Cardiac Light-Chain Amyloidosis: Real-World Experience in Clinical Characteristics and Treatment-67 Patients Multicenter Analysis

Light-chain amyloidosis (AL) is a rare multisystem disorder characterized by the deposition of misfolded amyloid fibrils derived from monoclonal immunoglobulin light chains in various organs. One of the most common organs involved in AL is the heart, with 50-70% of patients clinically symptomatic at diagnosis. We conducted a multi-center, retrospective analysis of 67 patients diagnosed between July 2012 and August 2022 with the European 2012 modification of Mayo 2004 stage III cardiac AL. The most important factors identified in the univariate Cox analysis contributing to a longer OS included Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS) ≤ 1, New York Heart Association functional classification (NYHA FC) ≤ 2, the use of autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) after induction treatment, achieving a hematological response (≥very good partial response) and cardiac (≥partial response) response after first-line treatment. The most important prognostic factors with the most significant impact on OS improvement in patients with modified Mayo stage III cardiac AL identified by multivariate Cox analysis are ECOG PS ≤ 1, NYHA FC ≤ 2, and achieving hematological response ≥ VGPR and cardiac response ≥ PR after first-line treatment.

Patients Age 40 Years and Younger With Multiple Myeloma Have the Same Prognosis as Older Patients: An Analysis of Real-World Patients' Evidence From Latin America

PURPOSE

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a highly heterogeneous, incurable disease most frequently diagnosed in the elderly. Therefore, data on clinical characteristics and outcomes in the very young population are scarce.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We analyzed clinical characteristics, response to treatment, and survival in 103 patients with newly diagnosed MM age 40 years or younger compared with 256 patients age 41-50 years and 957 patients age 51 years or older.

RESULTS

There were no statistical differences in sex, isotype, International Scoring System, renal involvement, hypercalcemia, anemia, dialysis, bony lesions, extramedullary disease, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). The most used regimen in young patients was cyclophosphamide, bortezomib, dexamethasone, followed by cyclophosphamide, thalidomide, dexamethasone and bortezomib, thalidomide, dexamethasone. Of the patients age 40 years or younger, only 53% received autologous stem-cell transplant (ASCT) and 71.1% received maintenance. There were no differences in overall survival (OS) in the three patient cohorts. In the multivariate analysis, only high LDH, high cytogenetic risk, and ASCT were statistically associated with survival.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, younger patients with MM in Latin America have similar clinical characteristics, responses, and OS compared with the elderly.

Efficient production of a polyhydroxyalkanoate by Azotobacter vinelandii OP using apple residues as promising feedstock

Fruit residues are attractive substrates for the production of bacterial polyhydroxyalkanoates due to the high contents of fermentable sugars and the fast, simple, and efficient pretreatment methods required. In this study, apple residues, mainly apple peel, were used as the sole carbon source in cultures of the bacterium Azotobacter vinelandii OP to produce poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB). Conversion from the residue to total sugars was highly effective, achieving conversions of up to 65.4 % w w^-1 when using 1 % v v^-1 sulfuric acid and 58.3 % w w^-1 in the absence of acid (only water). The cultures were evaluated at the shake-flask scale and in 3-L bioreactors using a defined medium under nitrogen starvation conditions. The results showed the production of up to 3.94 g L^-1 P3HB in a bioreactor, reaching an accumulation of 67.3 % w w^-1 when using apple residues. For the PHB obtained from the cultures with apple residues, a melting point of 179.99 °C and a maximum degradation temperature of 274.64 °C were calculated. A P3HB production strategy is shown using easily hydrolysable fruit residues to achieve production yields comparable to those obtained with pure sugars under similar cultivation conditions.

An elevated HScore is associated with poor clinical outcomes in COVID-19

BACKGROUND

Patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) frequently experience a hyperinflammatory syndrome leading to unfavorable outcomes. This condition resembles Secondary Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (sHLH) described in neoplastic, rheumatic and other infectious diseases. A scoring system (HScore) that evaluates underlying immunosuppression, temperature, organomegaly, cytopenias, ferritin, triglycerides, fibrinogen and AST was validated for sHLH, and recently proposed to evaluate hyperinflammation in COVID-19.

AIM

To assess the presence of sHLH among patients with COVID-19 admitted for hospitalization and to evaluate Hscore as a prognostic tool for poor outcomes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

One hundred forty-three patients aged 21-100 years (64% males) admitted because of COVID-19 were enrolled in a prospective study. HScore was calculated within 72 hours admission. The incidence of sHLH during hospitalization was evaluated. Additionally, the relationship between a HScore ≥ 130 points and either the requirement of mechanical ventilation or 60-days mortality was explored.

RESULTS

The median HScore was 96 (33-169). A SHLH was diagnosed in one patient (incidence 0.7%), whose HScore was 169. After adjusting for age, sex, comorbidities and obesity, HScore ≥ 130 was independently associated with the composite clinical outcome (Hazard rartio 2.13, p = 0.022).

CONCLUSIONS

sHLH is not frequent among COVID-19 patients. HScore can be useful to predict the risk for poor outcomes.

Primary plasma cell leukemia in Latin America: demographic, clinical, and prognostic characteristics. A study of GELAMM group

Primary plasma cell leukemia (pPCL) is an infrequent and aggressive plasma cell disorder. The prognosis is still very poor, and the optimal treatment remains to be established. A retrospective, multicentric, international observational study was performed. Patients from 9 countries of Latin America (LATAM) with a diagnosis of pPCL between 2012 and 2020 were included. 72 patients were included. Treatment was based on thalidomide in 15%, proteasome inhibitors (PI)-based triplets in 38% and chemotherapy plus IMIDs and/or PI in 29%. The mortality rate at 3 months was 30%. The median overall survival (OS) was 18 months. In the multivariate analysis, frontline PI-based triplets, chemotherapy plus IMIDs and/or PI therapy, and maintenance were independent factors of better OS. In conclusion, the OS of pPCL is still poor in LATAM, with high early mortality. PI triplets, chemotherapy plus IMIDs, and/or PI and maintenance therapy were associated with improved survival.

Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma in Chile: The Impact of Combined CHOP Plus Rituximab in the Public Health System

PURPOSE

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common lymphoma subtype. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical features, prognostic factors, and results of DLBCL that was treated in the cancer centers of the public health system in Chile and compare cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (CHOP) with rituximab with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (R-CHOP).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients age > 15 years who were treated in 18 cancer centers in the country between 2001 and 2017 were included. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate overall survival (OS), and Cox proportional hazard regression modeling was used to evaluate the effect of the addition of rituximab to CHOP on OS.

RESULTS

A total of 1,807 patients were evaluated. The median age at diagnosis was 62 (range, 15-95) years, with a female predominance (53%). Half of the patients were age ≥ 60 years. Serology for HIV infection was positive in 5% of cases (96 cases). International Prognostic Index scores were available for 90% of patients, of which 45% had low-risk, 25% low-intermediate-risk, 18% high-intermediate-risk, and 11% high-risk scores. CHOP was administered to 986 patients (55%; median follow-up, 13.2 years) and R-CHOP to 821 patients (45%; median follow-up, 8.4 years). R-CHOP was associated with superior OS compared with CHOP (5-year 66% v 48%, and 10-year 53% v 35%; P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Rituximab improved the survival of patients with DLBCL diagnosed and treated in Chile. The benefit was sustained over time, with curative rates of > 50%. This intervention shows that the inclusion of this biological drug justified the expenses incurred by the Ministry of Health in the National Lymphoma Protocols in Chile.

[Sulfhemoglobinemia secondary to the use of zopiclone. Report of two cases]

Sulfhemoglobin (SulfHb) is formed by hemoglobin (Hb) oxidation by sulfur compounds. Sulfhemoglobinemia is mainly associated with drugs or intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Patients present with central cyanosis, an abnormal pulse oximetry and normal arterial oxygen partial pressure. These features are shared with methemoglobinemia (MetHb) whose diagnosis requires an arterial co-oximetry. Depending on the device used, SulfHb may produce interference with this technique. We report two females aged 31 and 43 years, consulting at the emergency room with cyanosis. Both had a history of acute and chronic, high dose zopiclone ingestion. Pulse oximetry showed desaturation but with normal arterial oxygen partial pressure. Cardiac and pulmonary diseases were ruled out. Co-oximetry in two different analyzers showed interference or normal MetHb percentages. No other complications ensued, and cyanosis decreased over days. Since MetHb was discarded among other causes of cyanosis in a compatible clinical context, the diagnosis of sulfhemoglobinemia was made. The confirmatory method is not available in Chile. The presence of SulfHb is difficult to diagnose, confirmatory tests are not readily available, and it frequently interferes with arterial co-oximetry. This is attributed to a similar absorbance peak of both pigments in arterial blood. Venous co-oximetry can be useful in this context. SulfHb is a self-limited condition in most cases, however it must be differentiated from methemoglobinemia to avoid inappropriate treatments like methylene blue.

[Late-onset hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis with polyneuropathy. Report of one case]

Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis is a multisystemic autosomal dominant genetic disorder characterized by progressive distal sensory-motor polyneuropathy or restrictive cardiomyopathy, secondary to amyloid deposits. Its pathogenesis lies in the TTR gene mutation, and the Val50Met mutation is the most frequent. Patients have significant differences in the onset and severity of clinical presentation according to their country of origin. The diagnosis of this pathology is complex, even more in countries where it is not considered endemic. However, early suspicion and management are essential to improve survival and avoid unnecessary diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. We report a 69-year-old woman who presented a sensory-motor polyneuropathy, predominantly sensory, associated with distal neuropathic pain and bilateral vitritis. The history of her Italian father with polyneuropathy of unspecified etiology stood out. A vitreous biopsy identified amyloid substance deposits (congo red positive). These were also confirmed on a superficial peroneal nerve biopsy. During the etiological study of her polyneuropathy, an increased Kappa/Lambda index of 2.55 mg/L stood out. Therefore, light chain amyloidosis was suspected, and chemotherapy treatment was indicated without favorable response. After 10 years of progressive neurological and ophthalmological involvement, a genetic study confirmed the first case of late-onset hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis Val50Met with polyneuropathy in Chile.

Treatment and Survival Outcomes of Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia in Latin American Patients: A Multinational Retrospective Cohort Study

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (WM) is a rare lymphoma with distinct clinical features, and data from Latin American patients are lacking. Therefore, we aim to investigate the clinical, therapy, and outcome patterns of WM in Latin America.

Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (WM) is a rare lymphoma with distinct clinical features. Data from Latin American WM patients are lacking. In this article, we report, for the first time, the results of a retrospective analysis focused on the clinical, therapy, and outcome patterns of WM in Latin America. Moreover, we have validated the IPSSWM score as a prognostic factor for mortality and disease progression. Despite the limitations we acknowledge, this is the first study to provide novel real-world data on WM in Latin America.

Epidemiology and Risk Factors for the Development of Infectious Complications in Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma: A Multicenter Prospective Cohort Study in Latin America

PURPOSE

Infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). In Latin America, data on infectious complications in this patient population are lacking.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective cohort study of patients with newly diagnosed MM (NDMM) in seven Latin American countries between June 2019 and May 2020. Patients with active disease, on active therapy, and with a follow-up of 6 months from the time of diagnosis were included. Our primary end point was the number of infectious events that required hospitalization for ≥ 24 hours.

RESULTS

Of 248 patients with NDMM, 89 (35.9%) had infectious complications (113 infectious events), the majority (67.3%) within the first 3 months from diagnosis. The most common sites of infection were respiratory (38%) and urinary tract (31%). The microbial agent was identified in 57.5% of patients with gram-negative bacteria (73.5%) as the most common pathogen. Viral infections were infrequent, and no patients with fungal infection were reported. In the multivariable analysis, diabetes mellitus (odds ratio [OR], 2.71; 95% CI, 1.23 to 6.00; P = .014), creatinine ≥ 2 mg/dL (OR, 4.87; 95% CI, 2.29 to 10.35; P < .001), no use of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole prophylaxis (OR, 6.66; 95% CI, 3.43 to 12.92; P < .001), and treatment with immunomodulatory drugs (OR, 3.02; 95% CI, 1.24 to 6.29; P = .003) were independent factors associated with bacterial infections. At 6 months, 21 patients (8.5%) had died, 47.6% related to infectious complications.

CONCLUSION

Bacterial infections are a substantial cause of hospital admissions and early death in patients with NDMM. Antibiotic prophylaxis should be considered to reduce infectious complications in patients with MM.

Monoclonal gammopathy of renal significance (MGRS): Real-world data on outcomes and prognostic factors

Monoclonal gammopathy of renal significance (MGRS) is a recognized clinical entity. Literature regarding treatment and its outcomes in MGRS is sparse due to the rarity and misdiagnosis of MGRS. We retrospectively analyzed 280 adults with an MGRS diagnosis from 2003 to 2020 across 19 clinical centers from 12 countries. All cases required renal biopsy for the pathological diagnosis of MGRS. Amyloidosis‐related to MGRS (MGRS‐A) was present in 180 patients; nonamyloidosis MGRS (MGRS‐NA), including a broad spectrum of renal pathologies, was diagnosed in 100 patients. The median overall survival in the studied cohort was 121.0 months (95% CI: 105.0–121.0). Patients with MGRS‐A had a shorter overall survival than patients with MGRS‐NA (HR = 0.41, 95%CI: 0.25–0.69; p = 0.0007). Both hematologic and renal responses were associated with longer survival. Achievement of ≥VGPR was generally predictive of a renal response (OR = 8.03 95%CI: 4.04–115.96; p < 0.0001), one‐fourth of patients with ≥VGPR were renal nonresponders. In MGRS‐A, factors associated with poor prognosis included elevated levels of creatinine, beta‐2‐microglobulin, and hemodialysis at diagnosis. In MGRS‐NA, only age >65 years was associated with increased risk of death. Treatments provided similar hematologic response rates in both types of MGRS. Autologous stem cell transplantation led to better response than other treatments. This multicenter and international effort is currently the largest report on MGRS.

Cost-effectiveness study of prophylaxis with emicizumab versus bypassing agents in patients with severe hemophilia A in Peru

Settings

Hemophilia is a coagulation disorder that occurs in one in 5000 male births. Patients with untreated severe hemophilia A have hemorrhagic complications, including joint bleeds and decreased survival. Emicizumab is a monoclonal antibody approved by the United States for routine prophylaxis of pediatric and adult patients with severe hemophilia A with factor VIII inhibitors.

Objectives

To perform a cost-effectiveness study of emicizumab prophylaxis for children and adults with severe hemophilia A compared with the current disease management in the Peruvian Ministry of Health and Social Security Health Insurance.

Methods

The patient transition between medical states was modeled with Markov methodology, and the lifetime costs and incremental effects of emicizumab compared to current management were estimated. The budgetary impact of emicizumab was estimated by projecting annual net costs and its five-year present value.

Results

In the Ministry of Health, emicizumab would generate savings between 14.6 and 16.0 per child and 11.8 per adult, in current US$ million. Social Security Health Insurance savings would be 12.8 to 14.9 per child and 40.1 per adult. In addition, this strategy would generate effectiveness gains, measured in quality-adjusted life-years, of 0.36 per child and 0.56 per adult and 0.25 per child, and 0.36 per adult in those respective institutions. The budgetary impact would be a net annual saving of 12.8 and 15.0 US$ million in those entities.

Conclusions

The current management of hemophilia A is very costly and has health outcomes inferior to those possible with emicizumab. This drug would produce significant savings and better patient health. The Ministry of Health and Social Health Insurance should implement hemophilia prophylaxis and treatment protocols and finance this drug.

An international, multicenter, retrospective study on the positive impact of cutaneous involvement on the clinical outcome of adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma

Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) is a largely incurable disease. Cutaneous involvement is common and could be first symptom of the disease. We analyzed 169 patients with ATLL of whom 63 had cutaneous involvement. Cutaneous involvement was found in 48, 27, 17, and 60% of acute, lymphomatous, chronic and smoldering ATLL cases, respectively. Eight cases had primary cutaneous tumoral variant. Erythroderma (24%) and plaques (22%) were the most frequent skin lesions. The presence of cutaneous involvement was associated with better overall survival compared to non-cutaneous involvement (aHR 0.55 [95% CI: 0.37-0.82], p < 0.01; 1-year OS 53 vs. 27%, respectively, p = 0.012). Combination zidovudine and interferon-alpha (AZT-IFN) yielded high response rates (overall response, OR = 100%, n = 8; complete response 62.5%) compared to chemotherapy (OR = 33.3%, n = 12/36). In conclusion, cutaneous involvement was associated with better survival in Latin American patients with ATLL. AZT-IFN demonstrated encouraging responses in ATLL patients with cutaneous involvement.

Overall survival in Chilean patients with lymphoma and human immunodeficiency virus: A retrospective cohort study

Introduction

People living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH) still face high morbidity and mortality resulting from lymphoma.

Aim

To describe a population of PLWH and lymphoma in a Chilean public hospital and compare the overall survival (OS) with a previously reported cohort from the same institution.

Methods

Retrospective single-center cohort study. All the patients diagnosed between 2010 and 2017 were included. Demographic and clinical variables were obtained from medical records. The overall survival (OS) was estimated in treated patients from diagnosis until death or October 2020. The OS was then compared with a cohort of patients diagnosed between 1992 and 2008.

Main Results

Eighty-four patients were included. The most common histological types were Burkitt´s lymphoma (BL), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), Hodgkin´s lymphoma (HL) and plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL) at 31%, 27%, 21% and 14%, respectively. The three-year OS for the whole cohort of BL, DLBCL, HL and PBL was 58.9%, 65.2%, 47.4%, 76.4% and 50%, respectively. Compared to the cohort of 1992 to 2008, a global increase in the OS was found after excluding HL and adjusting for age and clinical stage (HR 0.38, p = 0.002). However, when the main types were analyzed individually, the increase in the OS was statistically significant only in DLBCL (HR 0.29, p = 0.007). Most patients with DLBCL received CHOP chemotherapy, as in the previous cohort.

Conclusion

The OS has improved in this population, despite no major changes in chemotherapy regimens, mainly due to the universal access to antiretroviral therapy.

Real-World Data on Adult T-Cell Leukemia/Lymphoma in Latin America: A Study From the Grupo de Estudio Latinoamericano de Linfoproliferativos

PURPOSE

Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) is an aggressive disease caused by the human T-cell leukemia virus type 1. Real-world data of ATLL in Latin America are lacking.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We analyzed patients with ATLL (acute, lymphomatous, chronic, and smoldering) encountered in 11 Latin American countries between 1995 and 2019. Treatment response was assessed according to the 2009 consensus report. Survival curves were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test.

RESULTS

We identified 253 patients; 226 (lymphomatous: n = 122, acute: n = 73, chronic: n = 26, and smoldering: n = 5) had sufficient data for analysis (median age 57 years). Most patients with ATLL were from Peru (63%), Chile (17%), Argentina (8%), and Colombia (7%). Hypercalcemia was positively associated with acute type (57% v lymphomatous 27%, P = .014). The median survival times (months) were 4.3, 7.9, 21.1, and not reached for acute, lymphomatous, chronic, and smoldering forms, with 4-year survival rates of 8%, 22%, 40%, and 80%, respectively. First-line zidovudine (AZT)-interferon alfa (IFN) resulted in an overall response rate of 63% (complete response [CR] 24%) for acute. First-line chemotherapy yielded an overall response rate of 41% (CR 29%) for lymphomatous. CR rate was 42% for etoposide, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, and prednisone versus 12% for cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, and prednisone-like regimen (P < .001). Progression-free survival at 1 year for acute type patients treated with AZT-IFN was 67%, whereas 2-year progression-free survival in lymphomatous type patients who achieved CR after chemotherapy was 77%.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms Latin American ATLL presents at a younger age and has a high incidence of lymphomatous type, low incidence of indolent subtypes, and worse survival rates as compared with Japanese patients. In aggressive ATLL, chemotherapy remains the preferred choice for lymphomatous favoring etoposide-based regimen (etoposide, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, and prednisone), whereas AZT-IFN remains a good first-line option for acute subtype.

Sentinel lymph node biopsy procedure in squamous vulvar cancer. 10 years follow-up analysis

AIM

Application of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) procedure in early-stage vulvar cancer and analysis of results, recurrences and complications.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

40 patients with vulvar cancer and SLNB between 2008 and 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. During the surgical procedure the inguinofemoral lymph nodes were checked with a gamma probe to identify the sentinel nodes that were removed and referred for intraoperative pathological assessment. Subsequently, long-term patient follow-up was performed with analysis of complications, relapse and mortality.

RESULTS

40 patients (mean age: 72 years [47-86], the overall detection rate per patient was 95% and a total of 129 Sentinel Lymph Nodes (SLNs) were removed (3.22 SLN/patient). In 3 out of 25 patients with lateral tumour lesions drainage was bilateral and in 2 out of 15 with midline lesions drainage was unilateral. On lymphoscintigraphy, 16 out of 40 had bilateral drainage and 24 unilateral. A total of 119 SLN- and 10 SLN+ were obtained, in 8 out of 10 an inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy was performed. In the SLN- group, one case of lymphatic blockage and one false negative were included. In 12 out of 40 patients there were post-surgical complications, 4 of them lymphoedemas. In the median follow-up (40 months), 6 out of 10 with SLN+ (40% mortality) and 7 out of 30 SLN- (16% mortality) had recurrences.

CONCLUSIONS

SLNB in vulvar cancer is the technique of choice for correct staging and locoregional therapy. Correct clinical lymph node staging is important before surgery in order to avoid potential blockage drainages which could induce a false negative SLN.

[Response rates to first-line treatment in eligible patients to autologous stem transplantation in Chile]

Background The treatment of choice of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) is an induction with proteasome inhibitors followed autologous stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Since 2013, the treatment of these patients in the public system is based on CTD (cyclophosphamide, thalidomide, and dexamethasone). Aim To evaluate the response rates achieved with CTD, and the results of HSCT in patients with NDMM in the public setting. Material and Methods Data from patients considered as candidates for HSCT from different centers of the National Adult Antineoplastic Drug Program (PANDA, for its acronym in Spanish), diagnosed between 2013 and 2017, was analyzed. The response to treatment of first and second lines of treatment was evaluated, in addition to the results of HSCT. An optimal Response was defined as the sum of strict complete remission, complete remission and very good partial response (sCR, CR and VGPR). Results One hundred and seventy-seven patients were analyzed, 54% women, and 53% with IgG multiple myeloma. Information about the international staging system was retrieved in 127 patients (71%). Seventeen percent were ISS I, 22% in ISS II and 32% ISS III. CTD was used as first treatment in 106 patients (60%), and cyclophosphamide, bortezomib and dexamethasone (CyBorD) in 13 (7%). As first line, CTD had an overall response of 50.9%, and CyBorD of 76.9%. Thirty patients were treated with bortezomib as second line treatment. Forty patients (22%) underwent HSCT. The 5-year Overall Survival (OS) in transplanted patients and non-transplanted patients was 100 and 62% respectively (p < 0.01). Conclusions The response rate achieved by CTD in these patients is suboptimal. The response to CyBorD was better.

Prognostic impact of renal failure recovery in patients with newly diagnosed multiple mieloma

Background Renal failure (RF) is a common complication in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). Aim To evaluate the frequency of RF in NDMM patients, and the prognostic impact of its reversibility. Material and Methods A retrospective study evaluating demographic and clinical characteristics of 154 consecutive patients with NDMM was carried out. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated at the beginning and at the end of the induction therapy. In addition, we evaluated renal responses (RR) according to the International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) criteria. The induction regimen was based on thalidomide in all cases. Results Fifty-three patients had RF (34.4%). Complete renal response (RR) was achieved in 51%. Three years overall survival in patients without RF, with RF and complete RR, and patients with RF and any other RR, was 66, 47 and 13%, respectively. Median survival was 53, 27 and 6 months, respectively (p < 0.01). In the multivariate analysis, RF and hypercalcemia were independent predictors of a worse outcome. Conclusions Achieving a complete RR in patients with NDMM, is associated with a better survival.

AL amyloidosis in the Chilean public health system: a pending debt. Multicenter study of the Chilean Monoclonal Gammopathies Cooperative Group

BACKGROUND

Immunoglobulin light chain (AL) amyloidosis is a rare and underdiagnosed entity.

AIM

To characterize patients with AL amyloidosis in Chilean public health centers.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective, multicenter study. Public centers of the Chilean Monoclonal Gammopathies Cooperative Group were asked to search for patients with AL amyloidosis in their databases. Epidemiological, clinical and laboratory characteristics were evaluated.

RESULTS

Forty-two patients aged 22 to 84 years were found. Twenty four percent had localized AL amyloidosis; 64% had a lambda light chain clone; 47% were associated with multiple myeloma and 9% with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The most commonly involved organ was the kidney (76%). Serum free light chains were measured in 31% and an echocardiogram was performed in 74% of patients. Seventeen percent of patients received only palliative care, 17% were treated with bortezomib, 21% with thalidomide, and 40% with melphalan. No patient was transplanted. The mean overall survival (OS) of the group was 19 months. The 5-year OS was 28%.

CONCLUSIONS

It is important to obtain these realistic, national data to initiate strategies to improve early diagnosis and proper management of this disease.

Significant differences in access to tests and treatments for multiple myeloma between public and private systems in Latin America. Results of a Latin American survey. GELAMM (Grupo de Estudio Latino Americano de Mieloma Múltiple)

The incidence of multiple myeloma (MM) has increased in the last 20 years, particularly in middle and low-middle income countries. Access to diagnostic and prognostic tests and the availability of effective care is highly variable globally. Latin America represents 10% of the world population, distributed in countries of varied size, population, and socio-economic development. In the last decade, great improvements have been made in the diagnosis and treatment of MM. Applying these advances in real life is a challenge in our region. Local data regarding MM standards of care and outcomes are limited. A survey was carried out among hematologists from 15 Latin American countries to describe access to MM diagnostic and prognostic tests and the availability of effective care options. This study provides real-world data for MM in our region, highlighting striking differences between public and private access to essential analyses and therapeutic options.

[Autoimmune hemolytic anemia. Review of 43 cases]

BACKGROUND

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is an uncommon disease. In its presentation, it can be severe and even lethal. There is only one clinical report concerning this pathology in Chile.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the clinical characteristics and evolution of adult AIHA inpatients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective review of clinical records of adult AIHA inpatients between January 2010 and June 2018 was done. Demographic, clinical, laboratory and therapeutic information was analyzed. A descriptive, analytical and survival analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Forty-three adult patients diagnosed with AHIA were hospitalized in a period of 8 years. Median age was 63 years (range 22-86 years), mostly women (72%). Warm antibodies were detected in 36 cases (84%) and cold antibodies in seven. Seventy two percent of the patients had an underlying cause, and 58% were secondary to lymphoproliferative neoplasms. All patients except two, received steroids as initial treatment, with response in 37 (90%) of them. Three refractory patients received rituximab, with response in all of them, and relapse in one. Median follow-up was 38 months (range 2-98 months). Five year overall survival was 72%.

CONCLUSION

AHIA in adults inpatients is a heterogeneous disease, mainly due to warm antibodies, and to secondary etiology.

[Paraproteins. A review]

Hematological neoplasms are tumors of cells in different states of maturation and differentiation. Since monoclonal gammopathies (MG) refer to B mature lymphocyte neoplasms, lymphogenesis should be well known. We must keep in mind that the last stage of maturation of these lymphocytes is the plasma cell. This is how a MG could appear in the context of a plasma cell neoplasm, such as multiple myeloma or amyloidosis, but also in relation to a lymphoma. A monoclonal peak is produced by mature B lymphocytes or plasma cells that secrete a monoclonal protein (Immunoglobulin), and represents a MG. But it must be emphasized that, in the correct clinical context, a hypogammaglobulinemia can represent a MG as well. Another important point is the understanding and interpretation of requested tests, such as protein electrophoresis (PEP), immunofixation (IFx) or serum free light chains (sFLC). The current MG screening panel includes these three studies (PEF, IFx, sFLC), although a simpler panel measuring PEF and sFLC has also been proposed, but not yet formally validated. Therefore, screening done only with PEP is insufficient.

[Waldenström macroglobulinemia. Experience in 31 patients]

BACKGROUND

Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) is an uncommon indolent B-cell lymphoma, due to the proliferation of lymphoplasmacytic cells, and secretion of a monoclonal IgM protein.

AIM

To evaluate the clinical characteristics, management and results of treatment of patients with WM at a public hospital in Chile.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Review of medical records of 31 patients aged 43 to 85 years (16 males) with WM diagnosed between 2002 and 2017. Clinical features and survival were recorded.

RESULTS

All patients had bone marrow compromise, and 31%, extranodal involvement. According to the International Prognostic Score System for WM (IPSSWM) 16, 58 and 26% were at low, intermediate and high risk, respectively. Twenty-five patients (81%) were treated, 32% with plasmapheresis and 36% with rituximab. Four cases (16%) achieved complete remission. Median follow up was 35 months (range 6-159). Estimated overall survival (OS) at 5 and 10 years was 74% and 53%, respectively. According to IPSSWM, the estimated five-year OS was 80, 92 and 39%, for low, intermediate and high-risk patients, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

OS was similar to that reported abroad, except for low risk patients, probably due to the low number of cases and short follow up. An improved survival should be expected with the routine use of immunochemotherapy.

[Survival of 1,103 Chilean patients with multiple myeloma receiving different therapeutic protocols from 2000 to 2016]

BACKGROUND

Multiple myeloma (MM) is one of the most common malignancies found in hematology.

AIM

To describe the features of patients with MM and perform a survival analysis according to the different treatment protocols used between 2000 and 2016.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Analysis of the database of the Chilean national anti-neoplastic drug program. Information was obtained from 1,103 patients, with a median age of 64.5 years (range 27-95) and a male to female ratio of 1:1.2.

RESULTS

The mean overall survival (OS) of patients receiving or not receiving Thalidomide was 46 and 30 months, respectively (p < 0.01). The mean OS of patients treated before 2007 (treated with melphalan and prednisone) and between 2007 and 2012 (treated with thalidomide and dexamethasone) was 36 and 48 months respectively. In the group starting in 2013 (treated with cyclophosphamide, thalidomide and dexamethasone) the median survival had not been reached at 20 months of follow up (p = 0.01 for all comparisons). Autologous transplantation (AT) was carried out in only 18% of the eligible patients. The median OS of the patients who receive an AT had not been reached at 48 month compared with 36 month among those who did not received the procedure (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Even though overall survival has improved with time, new drugs must be introduced in our protocols to obtain similar results to those obtained worldwide.

[Primary plasma cell leukemia. Report of five cases]

BACKGROUND

Primary plasma cell leukemia (pPCL) is uncommon, aggressive and has a different biology than multiple myeloma (MM).

AIM

To report the features of patients with pPCL.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Review of databases of the Hematology Department and the Hematology laboratory.

RESULTS

Of 178 patients with monoclonal gammopathies, five (2.8%) patients aged 33 to 64 years (three females) had a pPCL. The mean hemoglobin was 7.3 g/dL, the mean white blood cell count was 52,500/mm3, with 58% plasma cells, and the mean platelet count was 83,600/mm3. The mean bone marrow infiltration was 89%, LDH was 2,003 IU/L, serum calcium was 13 mg/dL, and creatinine 1.5 mg/dL. Two patients had bone lesions. Three were IgG, one IgA lambda and one lambda light chain. CD20 was positive in one, CD56 was negative in all and CD117 was negative in 3 cases. By conventional cytogenetic analysis, two had a complex karyotype. By Fluorescence in situ Hybridization, one was positive for TP53 and another for t (11; 14). One patient did not receive any treatment, three patients received VTD PACE and one CTD. None underwent transplant. Three patients are alive. The mean survival was 14 months.

CONCLUSIONS

These patients with pPCL were younger and had a more aggressive clinical outcome than in multiple myeloma.

[High risk cytogenetic abnormalities in patients with multiple myeloma]

BACKGROUND

Cytogenetic abnormalities observed in the bone marrow of patients with multiple myeloma (MM) are an important prognostic factor for risk stratification.

AIM

To investigate karyotype characteristics and frequency of the high-risk cytogenetic abnormalities t(4;14), t(14;16) and del(17p) in Chilean patients with MM.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We studied 30 patients with MM by conventional cytogenetics (CC) and fluorescent in situ hybridization of plasma cells selected using cytoplasmic immunoglobulin staining (cIg-FISH).

RESULTS

Overall, the two techniques in combination allowed us to identify clonal genetic abnormalities in 47% of patients. The t(4;14) abnormality was observed in 19% of patients, del(17p) was observed in 10% of patients, and t(14;16) was not detected.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed frequencies of high-risk abnormalities similar to those reported abroad. Cytogenetic studies should be performed routinely for all MM patients at the moment of diagnosis.

Impact of De-escalation on Prognosis of Patients With Bacteremia due to Enterobacteriaceae: A Post Hoc Analysis From a Multicenter Prospective Cohort

Background

More data are needed about the safety of antibiotic de-escalation in specific clinical situations as a strategy to reduce exposure to broad-spectrum antibiotics. The aims of this study were to investigate predictors of de-escalation and its impact on the outcome of patients with bloodstream infection due to Enterobacteriaceae (BSI-E).

Methods

A post hoc analysis was performed on a prospective, multicenter cohort of patients with BSI-E initially treated with ertapenem or antipseudomonal β-lactams. Logistic regression was used to analyze factors associated with early de-escalation (EDE) and Cox regression for the impact of EDE and late de-escalation (LDE) on 30-day all-cause mortality. A propensity score (PS) for EDE vs no de-escalation (NDE) was calculated. Failure at end of treatment and length of hospital stay were also analyzed.

Results

Overall, 516 patients were included. EDE was performed in 241 patients (46%), LDE in 95 (18%), and NDE in 180 (35%). Variables independently associated with a lower probability of EDE were multidrug-resistant isolates (odds ratio [OR], 0.50 [95% confidence interval {CI}, .30–.83]) and nosocomial infection empirically treated with imipenem or meropenem (OR, 0.35 [95% CI, .14–.87]). After controlling for confounders, EDE was not associated with increased risk of mortality; hazard ratios (HR) (95% CIs) were as follows: general model, 0.58 (.25–1.31); model with PS, 0.69 (.29–1.65); and PS-based matched pairs, 0.98 (.76–1.26). LDE was not associated with mortality. De-escalation was not associated with clinical failure or length of hospital stay.

Conclusions

De-escalation in patients with monomicrobial bacteremia due to Enterobacteriaceae was not associated with a detrimental impact on clinical outcome.

Extranodal lymphomas in the public health system in Chile: Analysis of 1251 patients from the National Adult Cancer Program

The aim of the study was to describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics, anatomic and histologic distribution, and treatment results of extranodal lymphomas (ENLs), diagnosed and treated in the public health system in Chile. We included patients with ENL diagnosed from 1998 to 2014, in 17 cancer centers, registered prospectively in the database of the National Adult Cancer Program (PANDA) of the Ministry of Health. Treatment was based on the local protocols for each lymphoma subtype. Extranodal lymphoma was documented in 1215 of 4907 non-Hodgkin lymphomas diagnosed in that period (25%). Median age was 59 years (range, 16-95), and 55% were female. The gastrointestinal (GI) tract was the most common location (38%), followed by the head and neck (24%) and the skin (15%). B-cell lymphomas accounted for 78% of cases, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma being the most common histologic subtype (68%). Mycosis fungoides/Sezary syndrome was the most frequent T-cell subtype (36%), followed by NK/T-cell lymphomanasal type (24%). In comparison with western countries, Chile showed a significantly high prevalence of NK/T-cell lymphoma nasal type, while the frequency of B-cell ENL and the anatomic distribution appeared similar, being GI the most commonly involved site.

[Toxic epidermal necrolysis during a hemophagocytic syndrome secondary to Hodgkin lymphoma. Report of one case]

Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a lethal entity, characterized by extensive epidermal necrosis and multiorgan failure. Hemophagocytic syndrome (HFS) is also a rare and lethal syndrome characterized by hyperinflammation that leads to the appearance of fever, pancytopenia, organomegaly and hemophagocytosis. The concomitance of these diseases is extremely uncommon. We report a 38 years old female, who during the course of a HFS secondary to Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL), presented a TEN secondary to antibiotics. She was admitted due to a consumptive syndrome, lymphadenopathy, visceromegaly and severe pancytopenia. Laboratory and bone marrow tests confirmed HFS. Due to constant fever, imipenem was indicated. On the third day she started with pain and skin rash. She evolved with positive Nikolsky sign. Cutaneous biopsy was concordant with extensive TEN, which was managed with intravenous immunoglobulin and dexamethasone. A complete response and normalization of the blood count were achieved. Finally, the lymph node biopsy showed HL of mixed cellularity type, which was managed with 8 cycles of ABVD chemotherapy, achieving complete remission.

[Acquired aplastic anemia. Experience in a public hospital]

BACKGROUND

The first line treatment for patients < 40 years old with aplastic anemia (AA) is allogeneic HLA-identical sibling donor transplantation (SCT). Immunosuppressive therapy (IST) with a combination of Thymoglobuline (ATG) and cyclosporine is used for older patients or those without a donor. Five year overall survival (OS) for both therapies is > 70%.

AIM

To report the experience with SCT and ATG for AA in a public hospital.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

AA was diagnosed in 42 patients between 1998 and 2016, according to Camitta criteria. Thirty eight (90%) received treatment, 7 (18%) under 40 years old received SCT, and 31 (82%) IST. The rest were not treated. OS was calculated from date of diagnosis until last control, death or loss from follow up.

RESULTS

Complete or partial hematologic response, was obtained in 71% and 58% of cases with SCT and IS, respectively. Five year OS was 71% and 55% with SCT and IST, respectively. No difference in response was observed between horse and rabbit ATG.

CONCLUSIONS

SCT from an HLA-identical sibling donor had a high response rate and survival. IST instead, had a lower response and survival, due to an initial high mortality rate.