Association of Bacterial Composition and Diversity in the Cervical Tumor Microbiome with HPV Genotype in a Large, International Patient Cohort

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Tumor bacterial composition is strongly associated with response to cancer therapy, and is impacted by environment, including geography. Human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypic diversity composition and load are dynamic during pelvic radiation (RT) and correlate with differential responses to RT in cervical cancer patients. In this multi-institutional, collaborative study, we aimed to explore associations between bacterial composition, HPV serotypes, and geographical distribution in an international patient population.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Cervical swabs were collected from 287 patients diagnosed with cervical cancer/ dysplasia in four locations: Houston, USA (TX; N = 94), Ethiopia (ETH; N = 85), Puerto Rico (PR; N = 71), and Botswana (BOT; N = 37). Swabs were collected prior to treatment and were subjected to 16S V4 rRNA gene sequencing and HPV genotyping. We compared HPV types and geography via Chi-squared test. We analyzed bacterial composition, alpha diversity (ANOVA), and beta diversity (principal coordinates analysis [PCoA] with PERMANOVA) for HPV type and geography. We used Linear Discriminant Effect Size (LEfSe) analysis to distinguish taxa associated with HPV types.

RESULTS

Overall, the global bacterial composition for patients with cancer or dysplasia did not significantly vary by location. However, the proportion of patients with each HPV type varied by location (p<0.01); HPV16 was most frequent in TX (54%), BOT (70%) and ETH (61%), while HPV18 was most frequent in PR (62%). The proportion of patients with HPV low-risk/negative tumors was highest in ETH (25%) compared to other sites (2% - 14%). Patients with HPV 16 had significantly higher bacterial alpha diversity across locations (all p<0.01). The bacterial composition also differed by HPV type across locations (p = 0.01). On LEfSe, bacterial genera enriched in HPV 16 samples were Bacteroides, Clostridium, and Prevotella. Non-HPV16 tumors were enriched in species of Lactobacillus and Gardnerella and HPV 18 and high-risk type tumors were enriched in Escherichia.

CONCLUSION

In thislarge, international cohort of cervical cancer and dysplasia patients, bacterial composition was more closely associated with cervical HPV genotype than with geography. This finding has implications for the development of biomarkers and interventions aimed at improving chemotherapy and radiation response through manipulation of the microbiome.

Abstract 5683: Single-cell RNA-seq reveals heterogeneity, clonal evolution and strategies to overcome ibrutinib-venetoclax dual resistance in mantle cell lymphoma

Introduction The clinical, pathological, genetic, and transcriptomic characteristics of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) are extremely heterogeneous, and MCL patients frequently develop therapeutic resistance after frontline therapies. In this study, we performed longitudinal transcriptomic analysis on patient specimens at the single-cell level, aiming to understand the dynamic and complex cellular and molecular changes underlying therapeutic resistance and to identify potential targets to overcome dual resistance to ibrutinib and venetoclax.

Methods Single-cell RNA-seq was performed on sequential MCL patient specimens. Integrative computational approaches were employed to characterize the cellular and molecular basis of therapeutic resistance and clonal evolution. Bulk RNA sequencing, deep WES, and 17-color flow analysis of multiple patient cohorts were used to validate the novel findings. An orthotopic PDX model derived from one of the ibrutinib-venetoclax non-responders was used for further analysis and to investigate the in vivo efficacy of therapeutic agents against multiple actionable targets.

Results To dissect the inter- and intra-tumor heterogeneity underlying the therapeutic resistance, we performed sequential scRNA-seq analysis of 21 specimens (18,794 cells in total) collected from 3 ibrutinib responders and 2 ibrutinib-venetoclax non-responders along the course of ibrutinib and/or venetoclax treatments. The analysis revealed a high degree of inter- and intra-tumor heterogeneity with distinct cellular and transcriptomic profiling within and across ibrutinib-responders and ibrutinib-venetoclax non-responders. The observed transcriptomic evolution of cancer hallmarks associated with disease progression and therapeutic resistance were faithfully passed onto the orthotopic PDX model derived from one of the ibrutinib-venetoclax non-responders. We tracked the clinical ibrutinib-induced lymphocytosis at a single-cell level in ibrutinib responders and disease progression-associated clonal evolution in non-responders, which was validated by deep WES analysis. 17q gain in non-responders was further validated in a larger patient cohort. Our analysis revealed the reprogramming of tumor microenvironment and tumor immune evasion, which was further validated by 17-color flow analysis in a large cohort (n = 70). Inhibition of multiple actionable targets showed effective anti-MCL activity in the PDX model to overcome the ibrutinib-venetoclax dual resistance.

Conclusions This study demonstrates the potential of longitudinal single-cell transcriptomic analysis to reveal the molecular mechanisms underlying tumor heterogeneity, clonal evolution, disease progression, and therapeutic resistance, and to identify potential novel targets to circumvent therapeutic resistance in MCL and other diseases.

Citation Format: Changying Jiang, Shaojun Zhang, Yuanxin Wang, Rongjia Zhang, Yang Liu, Joseph McIntosh, Guangchun Han, Ruiping Wang, David Santos, Maria Badillo, Angela Leeming, Zhihong Chen, Kimberly Hartig, John Bigcal, Hun Lee, Raphael Steiner, Jorge Romaguera, Preetesh Jain, Krystle Nomie, Andy Futreal, Linghua Wang, Michael Wang. Single-cell RNA-seq reveals heterogeneity, clonal evolution and strategies to overcome ibrutinib-venetoclax dual resistance in mantle cell lymphoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 5683.

Efficacy of venetoclax in high risk relapsed mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) - outcomes and mutation profile from venetoclax resistant MCL patients

Venetoclax is effective in relapsed patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). Mechanisms of resistance to venetoclax in MCL are poorly understood. We describe the clinical outcomes and genomic characteristics of 24 multiply relapsed patients (median of five prior lines of therapy) who received venetoclax-based therapies; 67% had progressed on BTK inhibitors (BTKi) and 54% had blastoid or pleomorphic histology. Median follow up after venetoclax treatment was 17 months. The overall response rate was 50% and complete response (CR) rate was 21%, 16 patients had progressed and 15 died. The median progression free, overall and post venetoclax survival were 8, 13.5 and 7.3 months respectively. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed on samples collected from seven patients (including five pairs; before starting venetoclax and after progression on venetoclax). The SMARCA4 and BCL2 alterations were noted only after progression, while TP53, CDKN2A, KMT2D, CELSR3, CCND1, NOTCH2 and ATM were altered 2-4-fold more frequently after progression. In two patients with serial samples, we demonstrated clonal evolution of novel SMARCA4 and KMT2C/D mutations at progression. Mutation dynamics in venetoclax resistant MCL is demonstrated. Our data indicates that venetoclax resistance in MCL is predominantly associated with non-BCL2 gene mutations. Further studies are ongoing in MCL patients to evaluate the efficacy of venetoclax in combination with other agents and understand the biology of venetoclax resistance in MCL.

Frontline Treatment for Older Patients with Mantle Cell Lymphoma

The natural history of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) undergoing chemotherapy is a cyclical pattern of remission followed by recurrence of disease due to acquired chemotherapy resistance. The median age of the occurrence of MCL is 65 years, so half of the newly diagnosed MCL patients are considered "elderly." The tolerance to long-term chemotherapy in elderly patients is decreased; hence, the response to frontline therapy used is of paramount importance. We hope that our review may guide clinicians in treating such populations in a more personalized and evidence-based manner.In the older patients with risk variables, frontline treatment is determined according to different body status of fit, unfit or compromised, and frail. In the fit patients, the pursuit of remission and prolongation of survival might currently justify the use of more intense and toxic therapies. For unfit or compromised older patients, disease control needs to be prioritized, maintaining a balance between the benefits and toxicities of the treatment. For frail patients, tolerance of treatment and minimizing myelotoxicity should be the primary focus. "Chemotherapy-free" regimens are likely to be considered as the first-line strategy for this population. On the other hand, in the older MCL population without risk variables, observation or "watch and wait" can prevent overtreatment. Furthermore, more clinical trials and research studies on novel agents and targeted therapies need to be translated into the general population to provide optimal treatment and to guide personalized treatment. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: This review emphasizes the importance of frontline therapies for older MCL patients. MCL patients commonly experience a cyclical pattern of remission followed by recurrence of disease due to acquired chemotherapy resistance. As a special population, elderly patients have various comorbidities and decreased organ function, which may reduce the chances of undergoing treatment for recurrent disease. Thus, this older population of patients with MCL should be treated separately and exceptionally. So far, systematic reviews with regard to frontline treatment for older patients with MCL have not been encountered, but the hope is that this review may guide clinicians in treating such populations in a more personalized and evidence-based manner.

Long-term outcomes and mutation profiling of patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) who discontinued ibrutinib

Long term outcomes and mutations in patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) who discontinued ibrutinib have not been described. Using deep targeted next generation sequencing, we performed somatic mutation profiling from 15 MCL patients (including 5 patients with paired samples; before and after progression on ibrutinib). We identified 80 patients with MCL who discontinued ibrutinib therapy for various reasons. Median follow-up after ibrutinib discontinuation was 38 months. The median duration on ibrutinib was 7·6 months. Forty-one (51%) patients discontinued ibrutinib due to disease progression/transformation, 20 (25%) for intolerance, 7 (9%) due to patient choice, 5 (6%) for stem cell transplant, 4 (5%) due to second cancers and 3 (4%) other causes. The median survival after ibrutinib was 10 and 6 months for disease progression and transformation, respectively, and 25 months for patients with ibrutinib intolerance. Overall, BTK mutations were observed in 17% patients after progression on ibrutinib. Notably, TP53 alterations were observed after progression in 75% patients. Among the 4 patients with blastoid transformation, 3 (75%) had NSD2 mutations (co-existing with TP53). Ibrutinib-refractory MCL patients had a short survival. Demonstration of TP53 and NSD2 mutations in patients who developed blastoid transformation and ATM and TP53 mutations in patients who progressed, opens the door for future investigations in ibrutinib-refractory MCL.

Paramount therapy for young and fit patients with mantle cell lymphoma: strategies for front-line therapy

The natural history of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a continuous process with the vicious cycle of remission and recurrence. Because MCL cells are most vulnerable before their exposure to therapeutic agents, front-line therapy could eliminate MCL cells at the first strike, reduce the chance for secondary resistance, and cause long-term remissions. If optimized, it could become an alternative to cure MCL. The key is the intensity of front-line therapy. Both the Nordic 2 and the MD Anderson Cancer Center HCVAD trials, with follow-up times greater than 10 years, achieved long-term survivals exceeding 10 years. But the Achilles heel in both trials were the severe toxicities, such as secondary malignancies including myelodysplastic syndromes /leukemia. Therefore, intensive therapies can act as a double-edged sword providing long term survival at the cost of severe toxicities. In our opinion, although intensive chemotherapy can cause detrimental side effects, it is indispensable given that we run the risk of sacrificing long-term survivals in these young and fit patients. We must seek for a powerful alternative at the front-line. Furthermore, minimal residual disease negativity should be the optimal therapeutic goal to achieve before and after autologous stem cell transplantation. Some novel therapeutic strategies have shown to improve outcomes, but it is not yet clear as to how these results translate in population. Of note, MCL patients need to be stratified at diagnosis and be provided with different intensities of front-line regimen. In this review, we discuss current strategies for the treatment of young patients with newly diagnosed MCL.

Spontaneous regression of mantle cell lymphoma: a report of four cases

Background

Spontaneous regression has been reported in some indolent forms of lymphoma. Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an aggressive lymphoid neoplasm and has a poor prognosis. However, approximately 30% of MCL patients can exhibit indolent clinical behavior. To date, complete spontaneous regression of MCL has not been reported.

Case presentation

We describe four cases of spontaneous regression of MCL. At the time of presentation, these patients were asymptomatic, with lymph node enlargement and mild to moderate fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake on FDG-positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography. One of the possible mechanisms of spontaneous regression of the tumor could be due to the host immune response through humoral and cellular immunity, which may have a role in the clearance of tumor cells.

Conclusions

In this report, we support the use of a “wait and watch” strategy for MCL patients with no risk factors and indolent behavior. This strategy helps spare patients from further potentially harmful chemotherapy. In addition, we describe the phenomenon of spontaneous regression in MCL patients who are asymptomatic and have low-volume disease.

Four-year follow-up of a single arm, phase II clinical trial of ibrutinib with rituximab (IR) in patients with relapsed/refractory mantle cell lymphoma (MCL)

Ibrutinib has shown significant activity in patients with relapsed or refractory mantle cell lymphoma (RR-MCL). We report the long-term outcome and safety profile of a single-centre, single arm, open-label, phase 2 study of RR-MCL treated with IR. Overall, the median follow-up time was 47 months (range 1-52 months), median duration on treatment was 16 months (range 1-53 months) and median number of treatment cycles was 17 (range 1-56). Twenty-nine patients (58%) achieved complete remission and of these, 12 patients continue on study. Thirty-eight patients discontinued treatment, 14 due to disease progression (2 transformed). Patients with blastoid morphology, high risk MCL International Prognostic Index score and high Ki67% had inferior survival. The commonest grade 1-2 toxicities were fatigue, diarrhoea, nausea, arthralgias and myalgias. None had long term toxicities. Median progression-free survival was 43 months. Eighteen patients (36%) died (14 deaths were MCL-related). The median overall survival has not been reached. Treatment with IR can provide durable remissions in a subset of patients with RR-MCL, especially those with low Ki67%. The possible benefit of adding other therapies in combination with IR in RR-MCL is under exploration.

Models to Predict Hepatitis B Virus Infection Among Patients With Cancer Undergoing Systemic Anticancer Therapy: A Prospective Cohort Study

PURPOSE

Most patients with cancer are not screened for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection before undergoing anticancer therapy, and optimal screening strategies are unknown. We sought to develop selective HBV screening strategies for patients who require systemic anticancer therapy.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study included adults age ≥ 18 years with solid or hematologic malignancies who received systemic anticancer therapy at a comprehensive cancer center during 2013 and 2014. Patients underwent hepatitis B surface antigen, hepatitis B core antibody, and hepatitis B surface antibody testing, and completed a 19-question modified Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) HBV survey. Multivariable models that predict chronic or past HBV infection were developed and validated using bootstrapping.

RESULTS

A total of 2,124 patients (mean age, 58 ± 13 years) completed the risk survey and HBV testing. Of these, 54% were women; 77% were non-Hispanic white, 11% Hispanic, 8% black, and 4% Asian; and 20% had a hematologic malignancy and 80% a solid tumor. Almost 12% were born outside the United States. The prevalence was 0.3% for chronic HBV infection and 6% for past HBV infection. Significant predictors of positive hepatitis B surface antigen or hepatitis B core antibody tests were as follows: men who had sex with men, black or Asian race, birthplace outside the United States, parent's birthplace outside the United States, household exposure to HBV, age ≥ 50 years, and history of injection drug use. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the model on the basis of these seven predictors was 0.79 (95% CI, 0.73 to 0.82). The modified CDC survey and brief tools with fewer than seven questions yielded similar false-negative rates (0% and 0% to 0.7%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

An internally validated risk tool performed as well as the modified CDC survey; however, more than 90% of patients who completed the tool would still require HBV testing. Universal HBV testing is more efficient than risk-based screening.

Seroprevalence of HPV 6, 11, 16 and 18 and correlates of exposure in unvaccinated women aged 16-64 years in Puerto Rico

Background

To understand risk factors for HPV exposure in Puerto Rican women, we evaluated HPV 6, 11, 16, and 18 serology in women aged living in the San Juan metropolitan area.

Methods

As part of a cross-sectional study, a population-based sample of 524 HPV unvaccinated Hispanic women ages 16–64 years completed face-to-face and computer assisted interviews and provided blood and self-collected anal and cervical specimens. Serology used multiplex virus-like particle based-IgG ELISA and HPV DNA was detected with L1-consensus PCR.

Results

32% and 47% were seropositive to HPV types included in the bivalent (16/18) and quadrivalent (6/11/16/18) vaccines, respectively. Type-specific seroprevalence was HPV6 − 29%, HPV11 − 18%, HPV16 − 23%, and HPV18 − 17%; seroprevalence was high in the youngest age-group (16–19: 26–37%). HPV seropositivity was associated with having ≥ 3 lifetime sexual partners (OR=2.5, 95% CI=1.7–3.9) and detection of anogenital HPV DNA (OR=1.8, 95% CI=1.2–2.6).

Conclusions

The high cumulative exposure of HPV vaccine types 6/11/16/18 in this Hispanic population was influenced by factors related to HPV exposure through sexual behavior. High seroprevalence in the youngest age-group indicates early age of exposure to HPV in Puerto Rico, highlighting the need for HPV vaccination starting prior to age 16.

Current trials for frontline therapy of mantle cell lymphoma

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare and incurable subtype of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that generally affects older individuals. However, the use of high-dose therapy and autologous stem cell transplant has improved significantly the prognosis of this hematological malignancy, but at the cost of increased toxicities, such as acute toxic death and secondary malignancies. But thanks to a rising understanding of the biology of MCL, the explosion of specifically targeted new efficacious agents, immunotherapy agents, and cellular therapies in the frontline setting, the prognosis of MCL is expected to improve dramatically.

The initial treatment of MCL is currently not standardized and the therapeutic landscape of MCL is rapidly evolving. This review provides an extensive overview of the current frontline therapy trials for MCL and presents the results of innovative regimen, including some integrating novel agents and desintensified chemotherapy.

Smoldering mantle cell lymphoma

Background

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an aggressive disease, with poor prognosis and a limited survival. However, some patients with indolent MCL can survive beyond 7~10 years. These patients remain largely asymptomatic and can be in observation for a long time without any treatment. The process of “wait and watch” leaves these patients with the potential risk of evolution to classic, aggressive MCL. On the other hand, early treatment for these patients may not impact overall survival but rather affects the quality of life. Therefore, it is essential to clearly identify this type of indolent MCL at the time of diagnosis.

Results

Reported findings of indolent presentation of MCL include: lack of B symptoms, normal serum lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) and β2-microglobulin levels (β2M), low MCL-International Prognostic Index (MIPI) score, maximum tumor diameter less than 3 cm, spleen size < 20 cm, positron emission tomography/computerized tomography with the Standard Uptake Value max <6, Ki-67 less than 30%, with some particular immunophenotype, such as CD5 and CD38 negative, markedly increased CD23 positive lymphocytes proportions, high expression of CD200, kappa light chain restriction, without C-myc, TP53 and NOTCH1/2 mutations, non-blastoid/pleomorphic histology, and no tumor growth on reevaluation every 2~3 months (followed for at least 6 months). Imaging evaluation may only be performed in the presence of disease-related symptoms or organ involvement. Meanwhile, if novel nodal or extranodal lesion is found, biopsy is mandatory to exclude lymphoma.

Common clinopathological forms of indolent presentations include monoclonal B lymphocytosis with t (11; 14); “indolent leukemic” presentation of MCL with involvement of peripheral blood, bone marrow involvement, splenomegaly, and minimal lymphadenopathies and in situ lymphoma (often found in lymph nodes removed for other reasons, and in gastrointestinal biopsies).

Conclusions

Considering these distinct indolent clinical presentations with particular features in cytology and gene mutational status, we propose to include these MCL clinical presentations under the umbrella of “Smoldering Mantle Cell Lymphoma”.

Ultra-low-dose radiotherapy for definitive management of ocular adnexal B-cell lymphoma

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to report the response to and toxicity of ultra-low-dose radiotherapy (RT) for B-cell ocular adnexal lymphoma (OAL).

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of patients with indolent B-cell and mantle cell OAL treated with 4 Gy to the orbit(s) in two 2-Gy fractions. Disease response was assessed clinically and/or radiographically at 2 to 4-month intervals after RT. Data collected included rates of overall response, complete response (CR), partial response (PR), and treatment-related toxic effects.

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients (median age, 65 years) had the following histologic subtypes: mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT; 14 patients; 64%); follicular lymphoma (5 patients; 23%); mantle cell lymphoma (MCL; 2 patients; 9%); and unclassifiable (1 patient, 4%). The overall response rate was 100%; 19 patients (86%) had a CR and 3 patients (14%) had a PR. The only acute toxic effect was grade 1 dry eye syndrome in 1 patient.

CONCLUSION

Ultra-low-dose RT in patients with OAL is associated with high response rates and minimal toxic effects, and is much shorter in duration and cost. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 1095-1100, 2017.

Factors Associated with HPV Vaccine Awareness in a Population-Based Sample of Hispanic Women in Puerto Rico

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to investigate the factors associated with HPV awareness among women aged 16 to 64 years, among underserved minority Hispanic women living in Puerto Rico.

METHODS

A population-based, cross-sectional sample of 566 women, ages 16 to 64 years, living in the San Juan metropolitan area were surveyed regarding sexual behavior, HPV knowledge, and HPV vaccine uptake. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

Overall, 64.8 % of the women in the sample had heard about the HPV vaccine. Among those in the recommended catch-up vaccination age range (16-26 years, n = 86), 4.7 % had received at least one dose of the HPV vaccine. Of those aware of the availability of the HPV vaccine, most had learned about it through the media, whereas, only 39.6 % had learned about it from a physician. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that HPV awareness (OR 8.6; 95 % CI 5.0-14.8) and having had an abnormal Pap smear (OR 2.0; 95 % CI 1.2-3.4) were associated with HPV vaccine awareness (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

HPV vaccine awareness among Hispanic women in the San Juan metropolitan area of Puerto Rico continues to be low. Strong recommendations from physicians and participation in HPV vaccine educational efforts are essential if the rate of HPV vaccination is to increase in the targeted population. Compared to the USA, and to their US Hispanic counterparts, a health disparity with regard to HPV vaccine awareness and coverage is evident in Puerto Rico; targeted action to deal with this disparity is urgently needed.

Prevalence, genotyping, and correlates of anogenital HPV infection in a population-based sample of women in Puerto Rico

Background

Oncogenic HPV infection is associated to anogenital cancer. We estimate the prevalence and correlates of anogenital HPV infection among a population-based sample of women aged 16–64 years living in the metropolitan area of Puerto Rico.

Methods

564 women completed face-to-face and computer assisted interviews and self-collected anal and cervical specimens. HPV DNA testing used MY09/MY11 consensus HPV L1 primers and beta-globin as an internal control for sample amplification. Positive specimens were typed by dot-blot hybridization.

Results

Weighted prevalence of cervical, anal, and cervical/anal co-infection was 29.4%, 38.6%, and 17.1%, respectively. The commonest oncogenic HPV types detected in the cervix and anus were: 68 (8% vs. 7%) and 16 (5.5% vs. 5.1%), correspondingly. Having ≥3 lifetime sexual partners (OR: 2.3; 95% CI: 1.5–3.5) and last year anal intercourse (OR: 1.6; 95% CI: 1.1–2.5) increased the odds of anogenital HPV infection. Cervical infection was independently associated to anal infection (OR: 3.0; 95% CI: 2.0–4.6).

Conclusions

Similar to others, our results confirm the burden of anogenital HPV infection in women and its relationship with sexual behavior. As vaccination increases, future studies should monitor changing trends in HPV infection in this population, and the relationship between anal and cervical HPV-related disease.

Ibrutinib in combination with rituximab in relapsed or refractory mantle cell lymphoma: a single-centre, open-label, phase 2 trial

BACKGROUND

Ibrutinib is approved in the EU, USA, and other countries for patients with mantle cell lymphoma who received one previous therapy. In a previous phase 2 study with single-agent ibrutinib, the proportion of patients who achieved an objective response was 68%; 38 (34%) of 111 patients had transient lymphocytosis. We hypothesised that adding rituximab could target mantle cell lymphoma cells associated with redistribution lymphocytosis, leading to more potent antitumour activity.

METHODS

Patients with a confirmed mantle cell lymphoma diagnosis (based on CD20-positive and cyclin D1-positive cells in tissue biopsy specimens), no upper limit on the number of previous treatments received, and an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status score of 2 or less were enrolled in this single-centre, open-label, phase 2 study. Patients received continuous oral ibrutinib (560 mg) daily until progressive disease or unacceptable toxic effects. Rituximab 375 mg/m(2) was given intravenously once per week for 4 weeks during cycle 1, then on day 1 of cycles 3-8, and thereafter once every other cycle up to 2 years. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients who achieved an objective response in the intention-to-treat population and safety assessed in the as-treated population. The study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01880567, and is still ongoing, but no longer accruing patients.

FINDINGS

Between July 15, 2013, and June 30, 2014, 50 patients were enrolled. Median age was 67 years (range 45-86), and the median number of previous regimens was three (range 1-9). At a median follow-up of 16·5 months (IQR 12·09-19·28), 44 (88%, 95% CI 75·7-95·5) patients achieved an objective response, with 22 (44%, 30·0-58·7) patients achieving a complete response, and 22 (44%, 30·0-58·7) a partial response. The only grade 3 adverse event in >=10% of patients was atrial fibrillation, which was noted in six (12%) patients. Grade 4 diarrhoea and neutropenia occurred in one patient each. Adverse events led to discontinuation of therapy in five (10%) patients (atrial fibrillation in three [6%] patients, liver infection in one [2%], and bleeding in one [2%]). Two patients died while on-study from cardiac arrest and septic shock; the latter was deemed possibly related to treatment.

INTERPRETATION

Ibrutinib combined with rituximab is active and well tolerated in patients with relapsed or refractory mantle cell lymphoma. Our results provide preliminary evidence for the activity of this combination in clinical practice. A phase 3 trial is warranted for more definitive data.

FUNDING

Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company.

Phase II study of an AKT inhibitor MK2206 in patients with relapsed or refractory lymphoma

We conducted a phase II study of the AKT inhibitor, MK2206 in patients with relapsed or refractory lymphoma of any histology excluding Burkitt lymphoma or lymphoblastic lymphoma. MK-2206 was administered orally at 200 mg once weekly in 28-d cycles up to 12 cycles in the absence of progression or significant toxicity. The dose was adjusted based on tolerance. A total of 59 patients were enrolled. The final doses patients received were 300 mg (n = 33), 250 mg (n = 2), 200 mg (n = 16) and 135 mg (n = 8). Based on intent-to-treat analysis, objective response was observed in 8 (14%) patients (2 complete response and 6 partial response), with median response duration of 5·8 months. The overall response rate was 20% in 25 patients with classical Hodgkin lymphoma. Rash was the most common toxicity (any grade 53%, Grade 3 in 15%) and was observed in a dose-dependent manner. The correlative cytokine analysis showed paradoxical increase in several cytokines, which may be explained by negative feedback mechanism induced by the on-target effect of AKT inhibitor. Our data demonstrate that MK2206 has a favourable safety profile with a modest activity in patients with relapsed Hodgkin lymphoma. The future studies should explore mechanism-based combinations (clinicaltrials.gov NCT01258998).

Predictors of radiation pneumonitis in patients receiving intensity modulated radiation therapy for Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma

PURPOSE

Few studies to date have evaluated factors associated with the development of radiation pneumonitis (RP) in patients with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), especially in patients treated with contemporary radiation techniques. These patients represent a unique group owing to the often large radiation target volumes within the mediastinum and to the potential to receive several lines of chemotherapy that add to pulmonary toxicity for relapsed or refractory disease. Our objective was to determine the incidence and clinical and dosimetric risk factors associated with RP in lymphoma patients treated with intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) at a single institution.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

We retrospectively reviewed clinical charts and radiation records of 150 consecutive patients who received mediastinal IMRT for HL and NHL from 2009 through 2013. Clinical and dosimetric predictors associated with RP according to Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) acute toxicity criteria were identified in univariate analysis using the Pearson χ(2) test and logistic multivariate regression.

RESULTS

Mediastinal radiation was administered as consolidation therapy in 110 patients with newly diagnosed HL or NHL and in 40 patients with relapsed or refractory disease. The overall incidence of RP (RTOG grades 1-3) was 14% in the entire cohort. Risk of RP was increased for patients who received radiation for relapsed or refractory disease (25%) versus those who received consolidation therapy (10%, P=.019). Several dosimetric parameters predicted RP, including mean lung dose of >13.5 Gy, V20 of >30%, V15 of >35%, V10 of >40%, and V5 of >55%. The likelihood ratio χ(2) value was highest for V5 >55% (χ(2) = 19.37).

CONCLUSIONS

In using IMRT to treat mediastinal lymphoma, all dosimetric parameters predicted RP, although small doses to large volumes of lung had the greatest influence. Patients with relapsed or refractory lymphoma who received salvage chemotherapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation were at higher risk for symptomatic RP.

Effect of prognostic classification on temsirolimus efficacy and safety in patients with relapsed or refractory mantle cell lymphoma: a retrospective analysis

Background

Temsirolimus, a selective inhibitor of the mammalian target of rapamycin, has demonstrated clinical benefit versus investigator’s choice (INV) of therapy in patients with relapsed/refractory mantle cell lymphoma (MCL).

Methods

This post hoc study retrospectively assigned simplified Mantle Cell Lymphoma International Prognostic Index (MIPI) scores (ie, secondary MIPI) based on parameters at the time of randomization in patients with MCL (N = 162) who received temsirolimus 175 mg once weekly for 3 weeks followed by once-weekly 75 mg or 25 mg or the INV of active therapy. Outcomes were analyzed according to the low-, intermediate- or high-risk category.

Results

Patient distribution by MIPI risk category was 31%, 39%, and 30% in the low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups, respectively. Among patients in all categories, objective response rate (complete response + partial response) was higher in patients in the temsirolimus 175/75-mg group versus the INV group, respectively: 42% versus 0% (low-risk); 33% versus 5% (intermediate-risk); 10% versus 0% (high-risk). Median progression-free survival was significantly longer with temsirolimus 175/75 mg versus INV, respectively, in patients with intermediate (4.3 vs 1.9 months; P = 0.035) or high (4.5 vs 1.6 months; P = 0.0025) risk, and a trend toward improvement was observed in patients with low risk (5.3 vs 2.6 months; P = 0.091). Improvement in median overall survival was observed with temsirolimus 175/75 mg versus INV in low-risk patients (18.0 vs 10.5 months, respectively; P = 0.069).

Conclusions

This analysis suggests that, compared with INV, temsirolimus demonstrated benefit in all MIPI risk categories in patients with MCL. In all treatment groups, patients with high secondary MIPI scores at baseline faced a dismal prognosis.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00117598.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40164-015-0006-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Use of Screening Tests for Colorectal Cancer Among Gynecologists in Puerto Rico

OBJECTIVE

To determine the use of screening tests for colorectal cancer (CRC) among Gynecologists in Puerto Rico. This study evaluates the screening practices used by Gynecologists in PR to diagnose CRC and adherence to screening guidelines.

METHODS

A self-administered anonymous questionnaire was mailed to 440 practicing gynecologists through the College of Physicians and Surgeons of PR. The questionnaire included general and specific questions.

RESULTS

Response rate was 23.2% (102/440). Of this group of gynecologists, 77.5% referred screening patients, while 22.5% did not. The majority (28.4%) use Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) as a first screening test, while 27.5% use Colonoscopy. Screening is started by 49% at age 50. Only 7% stop screening at 75 years and 31% never stop screening. CRC Screening performed by participants were: 35% screen annually, 6% screen 2-3 years, 10% screen every 5 years, 6% screen every 10 years and 6% screen 5-10 years. Data for CRC Screening reveals 7% gynecologists comply with all the guidelines; 49% comply with the recommendations regarding the start screening age and 7% stop screening as per guidelines.

CONCLUSION

The recommendations are not followed by most of the gynecologists in PR that participated in the study, Further research should be directed towards the reasons for not complying and how to educatethemedical population to achieve adequate screening in the PR female population.

Pegylated liposomal doxorubicin replacing conventional doxorubicin in standard R-CHOP chemotherapy for elderly patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: an open label, single arm, phase II trial

BACKGROUND

The present multicenter phase II trial evaluated the safety and efficacy of pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) instead of conventional doxorubicin in standard R-CHOP (rituximab plus cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine [Oncovin], and prednisone) therapy for elderly patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients aged > 60 years who had stage II to IV disease were included. Treatment consisted of rituximab 375 mg/m(2) intravenously (I.V.); cyclophosphamide 750 mg/m(2) IV; PLD 40 mg/m(2) (maximum, 90 mg) I.V. over 1 hour; and vincristine 2.0 mg I.V., all on day 1. Additionally prednisone, 40 mg/m(2), was given orally on days 1 to 1 to 5 (DRCOP [rituximab, cyclophosphamide, PLD, vincristine, and prednisone]). The cycles were repeated every 3 weeks for 6 to 8 cycles.

RESULTS

Eighty patients were enrolled and were evaluable for toxicity. The median age was 69 years. All except 1 had additional cardiac risk factors for anthracycline-induced cardiac toxicity beyond advanced age. From the intent-to-treat analysis of 79 eligible patients, the overall response rate was 86%, and the complete response rate was 78%. Cardiac events greater than grade 3 were identified in 3 patients (4%); grade 1 to 2 events, mostly asymptomatic declines in ejection fraction, were noted in another 16 patients. One death was attributed to cardiac failure. The estimated 5-year event-free and overall survival rate was 52% and 70%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

DRCOP represents an effective strategy for potentially mitigating cardiotoxicity in elderly patients with aggressive B-cell lymphoma. Future studies incorporating baseline cardiac risk assessments, long-term follow-up data, and biospecimen collection for correlative science should be undertaken.

Paclitaxel, topotecan and rituximab: long term outcomes of an effective salvage programme for relapsed or refractory aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Relapsed aggressive lymphomas are often treated with platinum-based chemotherapy (PBC) followed by an autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT). Response rates to PBC in patients with relapsed aggressive lymphomas are c. 60%, and non-responders have a dismal prognosis. Novel therapies for aggressive lymphomas, including those failing PBC, are needed. We performed a phase II study of paclitaxel, topotecan and rituximab (TTR) in patients with relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell, follicular grade IIIB, or transformed lymphomas, including those who previously failed PBC. The median age of the 72 patients enrolled was 54 years. Responding patients were offered ASCT after two courses. The overall response rate was 69% for all patients (n = 49/71) and 45% for those who previously failed PBC (n = 9/20). With a median follow up of 125 months for the censored observations, the overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival at 5 years was 39% and 27%, respectively. Responding patients who received ASCT had an OS of 63% at 5 years. Our results demonstrate that TTR is an effective salvage regimen for patients with relapsed aggressive B-cell lymphomas, including those who previously failed PBC. Given the declining therapeutic outcomes of salvage PBC in the rituximab era, further evaluation of TTR is warranted.

Current regimens and novel agents for mantle cell lymphoma

Mantle cell lymphoma is a heterogeneous subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Conventional treatment with immunochemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplantation or intensive immunochemotherapy alone has improved outcomes, but the disease remains incurable. Recent advances in basic and translational research have significantly enhanced our understanding of disease pathogenesis and have sparked the development of novel therapies. Novel agents include the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib, the immunomodulatory agent lenalidomide, the phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase pathway inhibitor idelalisib and the Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor ibrutinib. Preliminary results from clinical trials, especially from studies of ibrutinib, have proven these agents to be effective. In ongoing studies, these agents are being integrated into conventional immunochemotherapy regimens to hopefully improve patient outcomes.

Electroacupuncture for thalidomide/bortezomib-induced peripheral neuropathy in multiple myeloma: a feasibility study

Background

This single-arm study evaluated feasibility, safety, and initial efficacy of electroacupuncture for thalidomide/bortezomib-induced peripheral neuropathy (PN) in cancer patients with multiple myeloma.

Methods

Patients with neuropathy ≥ grade 2 received 20 acupuncture treatments over 9 weeks.

Results

For the 19 evaluable patients, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy/Gynecological Oncology Group-Neurotoxicity (FACT/GOG/NTX) mean (SD) scores improved significantly between baseline and week 13 (20.8 [9.6] vs 13.2 [8.5], p = 0.0002). Moderate effect size differences began on week 4, with the largest effect size differences found at week 9 for FACT/GOG/NTX scores, worst pain in the last 24 hours, and pain severity (Cohen’s d = 1.43, 1.19, and 1.08, respectively) and continuing through week 13 (Cohen’s d = 0.86, 0.88, and 0.90, respectively). From baseline to week 13, additional significant improvements were seen as follows: postural stability (1.0 [0.6] vs 0.8 [0.4], p = 0.02); coin test (10.0 [7.4] vs 5.6 [1.9], p < 0.0001); button test (96.1 [144.4] vs 54.9 [47.3], p < 0.0001); and walking test (21.6 [10.0] vs 17.2 [7.7], p = 0.0003). No significant changes were seen with NCS.

Conclusions

Acupuncture may help patients experiencing thalidomide- or bortezomib-induced PN. Larger, randomized, clinical trials are needed.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00891618.

Use of bortezomib in B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma

The ubiquitin-proteasome pathway plays a critical role in the regulated degradation of proteins involved in cell cycle control and tumor growth. Bortezomib (Velcade, formerly known as PS-341) is a potent proteasome inhibitor. In preclinical studies, bortezomib has demonstrated activity against a variety of B-cell malignancies by inducing apoptosis and sensitizing tumor cells to radiation or chemotherapy. Based on these findings, clinical trials have been conducted with bortezomib in B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. In these studies, bortezomib was generally well tolerated with manageable toxicities and showed promising clinical activity. Mantle cell lymphoma was significantly more sensitive to bortezomib than other non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. Bortezomib may have far-reaching potential in the treatment of B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

The prognostic value of interim positron emission tomography scan in patients with classical Hodgkin lymphoma

The prognostic value of interim positron emission tomography (PET) was evaluated after 2 cycles of doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastin and dacarbazine in classical Hodgkin lymphoma patients (n = 229), based on Deauville criteria. In early stage non-bulky disease, bulky stage II disease, advanced stage low International Prognostic Score (IPS ≤2) and advanced stage (IPS ≥3), 3-year progression-free survival rates in PET2-negative vs. PET2-positive groups were 95·9% vs. 76·9% (P < 0·0018), 83·3% vs. 20·0% (P = 0·017), 77·0% vs. 30·0% (P < 0·001) and 71·0% vs. 44·4%(P = 0·155), respectively. The outcome after positive PET2 was better than previously reported. The results from non-randomized studies of PET2-guided therapy would be valuable with careful interpretation.

Safety and activity of PD1 blockade by pidilizumab in combination with rituximab in patients with relapsed follicular lymphoma: a single group, open-label, phase 2 trial

BACKGROUND

Endogenous or iatrogenic antitumour immune responses can improve the course of follicular lymphoma, but might be diminished by immune checkpoints in the tumour microenvironment. These checkpoints might include effects of programmed cell death 1 (PD1), a co-inhibitory receptor that impairs T-cell function and is highly expressed on intratumoral T cells. We did this phase 2 trial to investigate the activity of pidilizumab, a humanised anti-PD1 monoclonal antibody, with rituximab in patients with relapsed follicular lymphoma.

METHODS

We did this open-label, non-randomised trial at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (Houston, TX, USA). Adult (≥18 years) patients with rituximab-sensitive follicular lymphoma relapsing after one to four previous therapies were eligible. Pidilizumab was administered at 3 mg/kg intravenously every 4 weeks for four infusions, plus eight optional infusions every 4 weeks for patients with stable disease or better. Starting 17 days after the first infusion of pidilizumab, rituximab was given at 375 mg/m(2) intravenously weekly for 4 weeks. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients who achieved an objective response (complete response plus partial response according to Revised Response Criteria for Malignant Lymphoma). Analysis was by intention to treat. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00904722.

FINDINGS

We enrolled 32 patients between Jan 13, 2010, and Jan 20, 2012. Median follow-up was 15.4 months (IQR 10.1-21.0). The combination of pidilizumab and rituximab was well tolerated, with no autoimmune or treatment-related adverse events of grade 3 or 4. The most common adverse events of grade 1 were anaemia (14 patients) and fatigue (13 patients), and the most common adverse event of grade 2 was respiratory infection (five patients). Of the 29 patients evaluable for activity, 19 (66%) achieved an objective response: complete responses were noted in 15 (52%) patients and partial responses in four (14%).

INTERPRETATION

The combination of pidilizumab plus rituximab is well tolerated and active in patients with relapsed follicular lymphoma. Our results suggest that immune checkpoint blockade is worthy of further study in follicular lymphoma.

FUNDING

National Institutes of Health, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Cure Tech, and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Phase I study of panobinostat plus everolimus in patients with relapsed or refractory lymphoma

PURPOSE

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of panobinostat plus everolimus in patients with relapsed Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The concept was supported by the single-agent clinical activity of histone deacetylase inhibitors and mTOR inhibitors, and on the in vitro mechanism-based synergistic antiproliferative activity.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

This was a phase I study in patients with relapsed or refractory Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma using panobinostat orally on Monday/Wednesday/Friday and everolimus orally daily. Toxicity and responses were assessed in dose-escalation cohort followed by expansion cohort at maximum-tolerated dose. Exploratory analysis of serum cytokine levels was performed.

RESULTS

Thirty patients were enrolled onto four dose levels. The dose-limiting toxicity was thrombocytopenia. The maximal tolerated dose was panobinostat 20 mg and everolimus 10 mg. Grade 3/4 toxicity included thrombocytopenia (64%), neutropenia (47%), anemia (20%), infection (10%), fatigue (7%), and dyspnea (7%). A total of 10 patients (33%; indolent lymphoma, T-cell lymphoma, mantle cell lymphoma, and Hodgkin lymphoma) achieved objective responses. In patients with Hodgkin lymphoma (n = 14), the overall response rate was 43% with complete response rate of 15%. In patients with Hodgkin lymphoma, multiple serum cytokine levels decreased significantly after treatment with this combination therapy. Of note, clinical responses were associated with a decrease in serum interleukin-5 levels (day 8, P = 0.013, and day 15, P = 0.021).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that the combination therapy is active but with significant thrombocytopenia. Future studies should explore alternate scheduling and different compounds that target the same pathways to improve the tolerability of this novel combination.

The use of salivary protein secretions as an in vivo model to study Mantel cell lymphoma progression and treatment

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to compare the salivary protein profiles from an individual diagnosed with MCL before, during, and after chemotherapy.

METHODS

Saliva specimens acquire prior, during, and after chemotherapy. Specimens were analyzed using a LC-MS/MS mass spectrometer.

RESULTS

The results of the study suggest salivary protein alterations secondary to MCL and that a number of the proteins were changed as a result of chemotherapeutic intervention suggesting that the treatment, from a proteomic perspective, was efficacious. The study suggests that salivary secretions may be used as in vivo model for studying MCL progression and treatment efficacy.

Immunomodulation therapy with lenalidomide in follicular, transformed and diffuse large B cell lymphoma: current data on safety and efficacy

Lenalidomide is an immunomodulatory agent which has been approved for multiple myeloma. Lenalidomide is also effective in and tolerated well by patients with follicular lymphoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and transformed large cell lymphoma. This review summarizes the results of current preclinical and clinical studies of lenalidomide, alone or in combination with the monoclonal antibody rituximab, as a therapeutic option for these three lymphoma types. This review will serve as a tool guiding future clinical investigations to improve survival rates for these three lymphomas.