Modified CVAD and modified CBAD compared to high-dose cyclophosphamide for peripheral blood stem cell mobilization in patients with multiple myeloma.

Background: The optimal regimen for peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) mobilization in patients with multiple myeloma undergoing autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (auto-HCT) has not been established. Experience at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center suggests in addition to single-agent cyclophosphamide (Cy), modified cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, and dexamethasone (mCVAD), and modified cyclophosphamide, bortezomib, doxorubicin, and dexamethasone (mCBAD) may be successful chemomobilization regimens.

Methods: This retrospective review included 167 patients (66 with Cy, 74 with mCVAD, and 27 with mCBAD) with multiple myeloma undergoing mobilization for auto-HCT between January 1, 2006 and September 30, 2013.

A case series using famciclovir in stem cell transplant recipients with valacyclovir hypersensitivity reactions.

Background: Herpes simplex virus and varicella zoster virus reactivation can occur in up to 32% and 40% of patients, respectively in the first year post-transplant without prophylaxis. Antiviral therapy consisting of acyclovir or valacyclovir is recommended for at least 1 year post stem cell transplant per evidence-based guidelines.

Objective: In the event of a contraindication or hypersensitivity reaction to either drug, an alternative is essential based on the proven efficacy in reducing clinically significant herpes simplex virus and varicella zoster virus reactivations.

The impact of pre-transplant valganciclovir on early cytomegalovirus reactivation after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Cytomegalovirus reactivation is a common complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant. The use of pre-transplant valganciclovir during the conditioning regimen followed by preemptive therapy has been used in an attempt to reduce the rate of early cytomegalovirus reactivation, but efficacy data are lacking. In this retrospective study, we evaluated the impact of pre-transplant valganciclovir during the conditioning regimen followed by a preemptive approach on the rate of early cytomegalovirus reactivation through day 100.

Feasibility of allografting in patients with advanced acute lymphoblastic leukemia after salvage therapy with inotuzumab ozogamicin.

Background: No highly effective salvage therapy exists for patients with relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Inotuzumab ozogamicin (IO) is a CD22 monoclonal antibody attached to calicheamycin that targets B lymphocytes in early stages of development, successfully inducing remission in patients with multiply relapsed ALL.

Methods: We describe our findings in 26 patients who received allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (SCT) after treatment with IO between September 2010 and October 2011.

A review of pharmacologic options for previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common adult leukemia and has a heterogeneous clinical course. Some patients experience an indolent disease course, which does not require treatment or affect their overall quality of life. Other patients present with symptomatic advanced disease that rapidly progresses and requires therapy.