A surrogate molecular approach for the detection of Philadelphia chromosome-like B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

BACKGROUND: Philadelphia chromosome (Ph)-like B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) is a clinically significant, high-risk genetic subtype of B-ALL cases. There are few data on the incidence, characterization, and treatment outcomes of Ph-like ALL cases from low- and middle-income countries. There is a pressing need to establish a well-organized/cost-effective approach for identifying Ph-like ALL instances. METHODS: Multiplex reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, nCounter NanoString, and fluorescence in situ hybridization were used to detect and characterize Ph-like ALL cases among recurrent genetic abnormalities (RGA)neg B-ALL cases. At the end of induction therapy, flow cytometry-minimal residual disease (MRD) assay was used to quantify MRD positivity in Ph-like ALL cases. RESULTS: Of 130 newly diagnosed B-ALL cases, 25% (BCR::ABL1), 4% (ETV6::RUNX1), 5% (TCF3::PBX1), 2% (KM2TA::AFF1), and 65% RGAneg B-ALL cases were revealed by multiplex reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Among RGAneg B-ALL cases, 24% Ph-like ALL cases using nCounter NanoString were identified, with 48% CRLF2high cases with 45% CRLF2::P2RY8 and 18% CRLF2::IGH rearrangements(∼r) revealed by fluorescence in situ hybridization. In 52% of CRLF2low cases, 17% ABL1 and JAK2∼r 8% EPOR::IGH & PDGRFB∼r were identified. Ph-like ALL cases had higher total leukocyte count (p < .05), male preponderance (p < .05), and high MRD-positivity/induction failure compared with RGAneg B-ALL cases. Furthermore, in Ph-like ALL cases, 11 significant genes using quantitative polymerase chain reaction were identified and validated. CRLF2, IGJ, CEACAM6, MUC4, SPATS2L and NRXN3 genes were overexpressed and show statistical significance (p < .05) in Ph-like ALL cases. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed the high incidence of Ph-like ALL cases with kinase activating alterations and treatment outcomes from low- and middle-income region. Furthermore, a surrogate cost-effective multiplex panel of 11 overexpressed genes for the prompt detection of Ph-like ALL cases is proposed. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: Identification of recurrent gene abnormalities (RGA)neg B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) cases using multiplex-reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Identification and characterization of Philadelphia (Ph)-like ALL cases using nCounter NanoString gene expression profiling and fluorescence in situ hybridization. Furthermore, Ph-like ALL cases were characterized according to CRLF2 expression and kinase-activating genomic alterations. Minimal residual disease of Ph-like ALL cases were quantified using flow cytometry-minimal residual disease assay. A surrogate molecular approach was established to detect Ph-like ALL cases from low- and middle-income countries.

Aberrant baseline cytokine profile in patients with newly diagnosed acquired aplastic anaemia correlates with disease severity and the treatment response.

BACKGROUND: Immune dysregulation is crucial in the pathogenesis of acquired aplastic anaemia (aAA). There is paucity of data regarding correlation of baseline cytokine profile with treatment response in aAA. OBJECTIVE: Present prospective case-control study aimed to correlate the baseline cytokines in patients with aAA with the treatment response. METHODS: Fifty-one patients with newly-diagnosed aAA > 13 years of either sex were enrolled over 1.5 years. Twenty age-and sex-matched healthy controls (HC) were also included. The cytokine profile (IL-2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 17, IFN-γ and TNF-α) in the peripheral blood plasma of aAA patients was performed at the baseline using cytometric bead analysis. The cytokine levels were compared with HC and correlated with response to immunosuppressive therapy (IST) at 3-months. RESULTS: The median age of cases was 29 years (range,13-74). The cases had higher mean levels of IL2 (p = 0.326), IL4 (p = 0.038), IL6 (p = 0.000), IL10 (p = 0.002), TNF-α (p = 0.302), IFN-γ (p = 0.569) and IL-17 (p = 0.284) than the HC. The baseline levels of all the cytokines were higher (statistically non-significant) among responders (n = 13) than the non-responders (n = 14) to IST. CONCLUSIONS: Baseline cytokine profile in patients with aAA might predict response to the IST. Larger studies are needed to validate our results.

Multi-criteria decision making to validate performance of RBC-based formulae to screen [Formula: see text]-thalassemia trait in heterogeneous haemoglobinopathies.

BACKGROUND: India has the most significant number of children with thalassemia major worldwide, and about 10,000-15,000 children with the disease are born yearly. Scaling up e-health initiatives in rural areas using a cost-effective digital tool to provide healthcare access for all sections of people remains a challenge for government or semi-governmental institutions and agencies. METHODS: We compared the performance of a recently developed formula SCS[Formula: see text] and its web application SUSOKA with 42 discrimination formulae presently available in the literature. 6,388 samples were collected from the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, in North-Western India. Performances of the formulae were evaluated by eight different measures: sensitivity, specificity, Youden's Index, AUC-ROC, accuracy, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and false omission rate. Three multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods, TOPSIS, COPRAS, and SECA, were implemented to rank formulae by ensuring a trade-off among the eight measures. RESULTS: MCDM methods revealed that the Shine & Lal and SCS[Formula: see text] were the best-performing formulae. Further, a modification of the SCS[Formula: see text] formula was proposed, and validation was conducted with a data set containing 939 samples collected from Nil Ratan Sircar (NRS) Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, in Eastern India. Our two-step approach emphasized the necessity of a molecular diagnosis for a lower number of the population. SCS[Formula: see text] along with the condition MCV[Formula: see text] 80 fl was recommended for a higher heterogeneous population set. It was found that SCS[Formula: see text] can classify all BTT samples with 100% sensitivity when MCV[Formula: see text] 80 fl. CONCLUSIONS: We addressed the issue of how to integrate the higher-ranked formulae in mass screening to ensure higher performance through the MCDM approach. In real-life practice, it is sufficient for a screening algorithm to flag a particular sample as requiring or not requiring further specific confirmatory testing. Implementing discriminate functions in routine screening programs allows early identification; consequently, the cost will decrease, and the turnaround time in everyday workflows will also increase. Our proposed two-step procedure expedites such a process. It is concluded that for mass screening of BTT in a heterogeneous set of data, SCS[Formula: see text] and its web application SUSOKA can provide 100% sensitivity when MCV[Formula: see text] 80 fl.

Genomic and proteomic characterization of Philadelphia-like B-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A report of Indian patients.

BACKGROUND: The gold standard for the identification of Philadelphia (Ph)-like acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients is gene expression profiling. Because of its diverse nature, its identification is extremely difficult and expensive. On the genomic and proteomic landscape of Ph-like ALL patients, there is a paucity of published literature from developing countries. METHODS: The authors used digital barcoded nCounter NanoString gene expression profiling for its detection, followed by molecular and proteomic characterization using fluorescence in situ hybridization and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). RESULTS: The authors found 32.05% Ph-like ALL patients and their median age at presentation was considerably higher than Ph-negative ALL cases (p = .0306). Furthermore, we identified 20% CRLF2 overexpressed cases having 8.33% CRLF2-IGH translocation with concomitant R683S mutation and 8.33% CRLF2-P2RY8 translocation. In 80% of CRLF2 downregulated cases, we identified 10% as having JAK2 rearrangement. Minimal residual disease-positivity was more common in Ph-like ALL cases (55.55% vs. 25% in Ph-negative ALL cases). Immunoglobulin J chain (Jchain), small nuclear ribonucleoprotein SmD1 (SNRPD1), immunoglobulin κ constant (IGKC), NADH dehydrogenase (ubiquinone) 1 α subcomplex subunit 2 (NDUFA2), histone H2AX (H2AFX), charged multivesicular body protein 4b (CHMP4B), and carbonyl reductase (NADPH) (CBR1) proteins were identified to be substantially expressed in Ph-like ALL patients, using LC-MS/MS. Gene enrichment analysis indicated that involvement of spliceosomal mediated messenger RNA splicing pathway and four microRNAs was statistically significant in Ph-like ALL patients. CONCLUSIONS: For the first time, we have described incidence, molecular, and proteomic characterization of Ph-like ALL, in developing nations. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: In developing countries, detecting Philadelphia (Ph)-like B-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia is complicated and challenging due to its diverse genetic landscape. There is no well-defined and cost-effective methodology for its detection. The incidence of this high-risk subtype is very high in adult cases, and there is an urgent need for its accurate detection. We have developed an online PHi-RACE classifier for its rapid detection, followed by delineating the genomic and proteomic landscape of Ph-like acute lymphoblastic leukemias for the first time in Indian patients.

Hematological, clinical, immunophenotypic characterization, and treatment outcomes of prognostically significant genetic subtypes of B-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A report of 1021 patients from India.

BACKGROUND: The published literature on hematological, clinical, flowcytometric-immunophenotyping, and minimal residual disease outcomes of the prognostically important genetic subtypes of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is scarce from low-income countries. For newer classifications such as BCR::ABL1-like ALLs, the scarcity of patient-level data is even more pronounced. METHODS: The authors performed comprehensive detection of recurrent gene fusions and BCR::ABL1-like ALL cases followed by immunophenotypic profiling and obtained clinical outcome parameters for a large cohort (n = 1021) of patients from India. This cohort included a significant number of patients with BCR::ABL1-like ALL subtype and other genetic subtypes of ALL. RESULTS: Patients with BCR::ABL1-positive and BCR::ABL1-like ALL were significantly older, had male preponderance, and expressed a higher white blood cell count than BCR::ABL1-negative cases (p < .05). Logistic regression modeling of B-lineage-ALL (B-ALL) subtypes revealed that cluster of differentiation (CD)36 is a strong statistically significant predictive marker of BCR::ABL1-like ALL (p < .05). Furthermore, patients with BCR::ABL1-like ALLs show a significantly higher frequency of CD36 expression compared to BCR::ABL1-negative ALLs (p < .05). In terms of clinical symptoms, lymphadenopathy is a strong statistically significant predictive marker in BCR::ABL1-like ALLs compared to BCR::ABL1-negative ALL cases (p < .05). In terms of treatment outcomes, minimal residual disease (MRD) positivity in BCR::ABL1-positive ALL cases were statistically significant (p < .05), and BCR::ABL1-like ALL cases had high MRD-positivity as compared to BCR::ABL1-negative ALL cases but did not show statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS: The findings evince the use of novel therapies and personalized treatment regimens to improve the overall survival of the newer incorporated entities in B-ALLs. This is the first report characterizing the hematological, clinical, flowcytometric-immunophenotyping, and minimal residual disease outcomes of the prognostically significant subtypes of ALLs in patients from India. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: Characterizing the hematological, clinical, flowcytometric-immunophenotyping, and minimal residual disease outcomes of the prognostically significant subtypes (n = 1021) of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALLs) in patients from India. We have made two independent logistic regression models of cluster of differentiation (CD) markers and clinical symptoms to differentiate prognostically significant subtypes of ALLs. Logistic regression analysis of CD markers revealed CD36 as a strong predictor in BCR::ABL1-like ALL cases compared to BCR::ABL1-negative ALL cases. Logistic regression analysis of clinical symptoms revealed lymphadenopathy significantly predicts BCR::ABL1-like ALLs (p < .05). In terms of treatment outcomes, BCR::ABL1-positive ALL had statistically significant minimal residual disease (MRD) (p < .05), and BCR::ABL1-like ALL cases had high MRD-positivity but did not show statistical significance as compared to BCR::ABL1-negative ALLs.

'Evaluation of adverse prognostic gene alterations & MRD positivity in BCR::ABL1-like B-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukaemia patients, in a resource-constrained setting.

BACKGROUND: Early detection of BCR::ABL1-like ALL could impact treatment management and improve the overall survival/outcome. BCR::ABL1-like ALL cases are characterised by diverse genetic alterations activating cytokine receptors and kinase signalling. Its detection is still an unmet need in low-middle-income countries due to the unavailability of a patented TLDA assay. METHODS: This study's rationale is to identify BCR::ABL1-like ALLs using the PHi-RACE classifier, followed by the characterisation of underlying adverse genetic alterations in recurrent gene abnormalities negative (RGAneg) B-ALLs (n = 108). RESULTS: We identified 34.25% (37/108) BCR::ABL1-like ALLs using PHi-RACE classifier, characterised by TSLPR/CRLF2 expression (11.58%), IKZF1 (Δ4-7) deletion (18.9%) and chimeric gene fusions (34.61%). In overexpressed TSLPR/CRLF2 BCR::ABL1-like ALLs, we identified 33.33% (1/3) CRLF2::IGH and 33.33% (1/3) EPOR::IGH rearrangements with concomitant JAK2 mutation R683S (50%). We identified 18.91% CD13 (P = 0.02) and 27.02% CD33 (P = 0.05) aberrant myeloid markers positivity, which was significantly higher in BCR::ABL1-like ALLs compared to non-BCR::ABL1-like ALLs. MRD positivity was considerably higher (40% in BCR::ABL1-like vs. 19.29% in non-BCR::ABL1-like ALLs). CONCLUSIONS: With this practical approach, we reported a high incidence of BCR::ABL1-like ALLs, and a lower frequency of CRLF2 alteration & associated CGFs. Recognising this entity, early at diagnosis is crucial to optimise personalised treatment strategies.

Long-term real-world outcomes of patients with acute promyelocytic leukaemia treated with arsenic trioxide and all-trans retinoic acid without chemotherapy-a retrospective, single-centre study.

Arsenic trioxide (ATO) and all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) form the backbone of the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL), with the addition of chemotherapy for high-risk patients. We describe our experience of treating patients with APL of all risk classes with ATO and ATRA without chemotherapeutic agents. Patients received induction with ATO and ATRA followed by three cycles of consolidation with ATO and ATRA (each 1 month apart) after achieving morphological remission. Patients with intermediate- and high-risk disease received a further 2 years of maintenance with ATRA, 6-mercaptopurine and methotrexate. A total of 206 patients were included in the study. The majority of the patients were intermediate risk (51.9%), followed by high risk (43.2%). Differentiation syndrome was seen in 41 patients (19.9%). Overall, 25 patients (12.1%) died within 7 days of initiating therapy. Seven patients relapsed during follow-up. The mean (SD) estimated 5-year event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) in the entire cohort was 79% [5.8%] and 80% [5.8%] respectively. After excluding patients who died within 7 days of therapy initiation, the mean (SD) estimated 5-year EFS and OS was 90% [5.8%] and 93% [3.9%] respectively. Our study shows that treatment of all risk classes of APL with ATO and ATRA without chemotherapy is associated with excellent long-term outcomes in the real-world setting.

Bleeding risk assessment in immune thrombocytopenia.

The bleeding risk in immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is related not only to low platelet count but also to the presence of platelet dysfunction. However, diagnosing a concomitant platelet dysfunction is challenging as most of the available platelet function assays (PFAs) require a platelet count of greater than 100,000/µL. Sonoclot coagulation and platelet function analyzer works on the principle of viscoelastometry, and results remain unaffected by the platelet counts. To assess the platelet function in adult acute ITP patients with the help of sonoclot coagulation and platelet function analyzer and correlate it with the risk of bleeding. Newly diagnosed acute ITP patients with a platelet count less than 20,000/µL were divided into two groups based on WHO bleeding grade: ITP non-bleeder (ITP-NB) group (WHO bleeding grade ≤1) and ITP bleeder (ITP-B) group (WHO bleeding grade ≥2). Platelet function was assessed by sonoclot in both groups. The patients without significant bleeding (ITP-NB) were followed up monthly for six months with the assessment of platelet function during each contact. Eighty patients (30 ITP-B and 50 ITP-NB) were prospectively included in this study. The median age of patients in the two groups was 37 years and 30 years, respectively. The female-to-male ratio was 4:1 and 1:1 in ITP-B and ITP-NB groups. The median platelet count in ITP-B and ITP-NB was 12000/µL (range 1000-19000/µL) and 8000/µL (range 1000-19000/µL), respectively. Mean platelet functions by sonoclot in both groups were lower than the normal cut-off (>1.6). However, the mean platelet function in the ITP-B group (0.2 + 0.17) was significantly lower than the ITP-NB group (1.2 ± 0.52) (p = 0.01). During the follow-up period of 6 months, patients in ITP-NB with a normal platelet function (>1.6) on sonoclot had lesser episodes (one episode) of clinically significant bleeding than patients with a low platelet function (4 episodes). Patients with acute severe thrombocytopenia and bleeding phenotype have a greater abnormality on platelet function by sonoclot than patients with non-bleeding phenotype. This information may help in taking therapeutic decisions in patients with acute ITP.

Hematological and genetic profiles of persons with co-inherited heterozygous ß-thalassemia and supernumerary α-globin genes.

INTRODUCTION: Thalassemias are common monogenic autosomal recessive hemoglobin disorders. The usually asymptomatic heterozygotes (ß-thalassemia traits, ßTT) may rarely develop non-transfusion-dependent-thalassemia (NTDT) due to co-inheritance of supernumerary α-globin genes. Literature on phenotypic/genotypic features of these rare combinations is limited. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We studied the demographic, clinical, and laboratory data from 47 persons with co-inherited ßTT + supernumerary α-globin genes. HBB mutations were tested for by ARMS-PCR and/or Sanger sequencing, ααα(anti3.7) /ααα(anti4.2) and deletional α-thalassemia testing by multiplex gap-PCRs, and Xmn1G γ genotyping by PCR-RFLP. RESULTS: The 47 cases comprised 0.08% of 61 010 hemoglobinopathy screenings during the study period. Mean age was 31.9 ± 14.7 years (range 5.5-83 years), with 57.4% males. Thirty (63.8%) had NTDT-phenotype, 16 (34%) were asymptomatic/minimally symptomatic, and 1 became transfusion-dependent at the age of 20 years. Anemia/pallor and jaundice were the commonest complaints (76% each); 40% had required blood transfusions. Twenty-one had splenomegaly, 14 had hepatomegaly. Mean hemoglobin was 9.0 ± 1.9 g/dl (range 4.0-13.0). HbA2 was 5.1 ± 0.7% (3.4%-6.3%) and HbF% 4.2 ± 3.2% (0.5%-18.4%). Forty-four (93.6%) had αααanti3.7 , while 3 (6.4%) had αααanti4.2 triplications. HBB:c.92+5G>C (47%), HBB:c.27_28insG (14.9%), and HBB:c.47G>A (8.5%) were the commonest ß-globin mutations. One case showed HBB:c.-138C>T (ß++ ), while the rest had ß0 or severe-ß+ mutations. Symptomatic cases had significantly lower hemoglobins and higher HbF% than asymptomatic ones. CONCLUSION: This largest Indian and globally second-largest study reports the ßTT + ααα4.2 state for the first time in such genotypically-complex Indian cases. Supernumerary α-genes should be suspected in all ßTT with disproportionate clinical symptoms, mild-to-moderately elevated HbF, and unexplained anisopoikilocytosis.

Characteristics and outcome of infectious complications after autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation in multiple myeloma patients.

BACKGROUND: Infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality after autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation (AHCT) in multiple myeloma (MM) patients. There has been a rapid advancement and evolution in MM treatment landscape in the last decade. There is limited information on post-AHCT infectious complications among MM patients with or without levofloxacin prophylaxis from developing countries. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a retrospective study to explore the incidence, pattern, and clinical outcome of infections following AHCT in MM patients from 2010 to 2019 at our center. Patient-specific, disease-specific, and transplant-specific details were retrieved from the case files. The characteristics of infectious complications (site, intensity, organism, treatment, and outcomes) were analyzed. All patients who underwent transplantation from 2010 to 2016 received levofloxacin antibiotic prophylaxis. Common terminology criteria for adverse events (CTCAE) criteria (v5.0) were used for the grading of infections and regimen-related toxicity. International Myeloma Working Group updated criteria were used for the assessment of disease response before transplant and at day +100. RESULTS: Ninety-five consecutive patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) (n = 85), RRMM (n = 7), plasma cell leukemia (n = 2), and Polyneuropathy, Orgaomegaly, Endocrinopathy, Monoclonal gammopathy, skin abnormalities (POEMS) syndrome (n = 1) underwent AHCT during the study period. Their median age was 55 years (range 33-68); 55.8% were males. Immunoglobulin IgG kappa was the most common monoclonal protein (32.6%), International Staging System stage III disease was present in 45.3%, and 84.2% of patients achieved more than very good partial response before AHCT. The median time from diagnosis to AHCT was 10 months (range 4-144). Eighty-nine patients (93.7%) developed fever after AHCT. Fever of unknown focus, microbiologically confirmed infections, and clinically suspected infections were found in 50.5%, 37.9%, and 5.3% of patients, respectively. Clostridiodes difficile-associated diarrhea was observed in eight patients (8.4%). Neutrophil and platelet engraftment occurred after a median of 11 days (range 9-14) and 12 days (range 9-23), respectively. The median duration of hospital stay was 16 days (range 9-29). Only two patients (2.1%) required readmission for infections within 100 days of AHCT. Transplant-related mortality (TRM) in the study population was 4.2% (n = 4). The levofloxacin prophylaxis group (n = 32, 33.7%) had earlier neutrophil engraftment (day +10 vs. day +11) and platelet engraftment (day +11 vs. day +12), but time to fever onset, duration of fever, hospital stay, TRM, and day +100 readmission rates were not significantly different from those of patients without levofloxacin prophylaxis. There was no significant difference in the spectrum of infections between patients with and without levofloxacin prophylaxis. The overall survival and progression-free survival of the study population at 5 years were 72.7% and 64.8%, respectively. CONCLUSION: This study shows that the incidence of infections and TRM are higher in MM patients from lower-middle income countries after AHCT than in those from developed countries. The majority of such patients lack clinical localization and microbiological proof of infection. There was no significant difference in the spectrum of infections and their outcomes in patients with and without levofloxacin prophylaxis.

Feasibility of treatment-free remission with generic imatinib: Results of generic imatinib-free trial-in-chronic myeloid leukaemia-chronic phase study.

Background & objectives: Both innovator and generic imatinib are approved for the treatment of Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia-Chronic phase (CML-CP). Currently, there are no studies on the feasibility of treatment-free remission (TFR) with generic imatinib. This study attempted to determine the feasibility and efficacy of TFR in patients on generic Imatinib. Methods: In this single-centre prospective Generic Imatinib-Free Trial-in-CML-CP study, twenty six patients on generic imatinib for ≥3 yr and in sustained deep molecular response (BCR ABLIS ≤0.01% for more than two years) were included. After treatment discontinuation, patients were monitored with complete blood count and BCR ABLIS by real-time quantitative PCR monthly for one year and three monthly thereafter. Generic imatinib was restarted at single documented loss of major molecular response (BCR ABLIS>0.1%). Results: At a median follow up of 33 months (interquartile range 18.7-35), 42.3 per cent patients (n=11) continued to be in TFR. Estimated TFR at one year was 44 per cent. All patients restarted on generic imatinib regained major molecular response. On multivariate analysis, attainment of molecularly undetectable leukaemia (>MR5) prior to TFR was predictive of TFR [P=0.022, HR 0.284 (0.096-0.837)]. Interpretation & conclusions: The study adds to the growing literature that generic imatinib is effective and can be safely discontinued in CML-CP patients who are in deep molecular remission.

Diarrheal woes in transplantation from real world settings with special focus on clostridium difficile infection.

Background: Diarrhea is the major cause of discomfort and morbidity of patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). The cause of diarrhea may be infective or non-infective. Methods: This is a prospective single center observational study from North India conducted over a period of approximately 4 years among 105 patients who underwent HSCT (autologous-72, allogeneic-33). The objective of the study was to identify the overall incidence and characteristics of diarrhea in HSCT in the real world, to evaluate any differences among allogeneic or autologous transplants, incidence of C Difficile among diarrheal patients, and antimicrobial usage among these patients. Results: Diarrhea was present in 89 of 105 patients (84.7%). The mean diarrheal duration was of 8.39±4.57 days (range: 1-24 days). There was non statistical difference between the incidence of diarrhea amongst allogeneic and autologous transplants (78.9% Vs 87.5%). Out of 89 patients with diarrhea, 13 were CDTA positive. We could isolate Clostridium difficile in culture in only 7.6% of patients with CDTA positivity. Metronidazole was the antibiotic of choice for diarrhea in our post-transplant settings. Metronidazole was prescribed for a median duration of 8 days (Range: 3-18 days). Seventeen patients received oral vancomycin with a median duration of 8 days (Range: 5-14 days). Conclusion: We conclude by saying that diarrhea was a common post-transplant morbidity. Clostridium difficile is not common in patients with the diarrhea post hematopoietic stem cell transplant. All cases of diarrhea need not be infective particularly in allogeneic settings.

Prognostic significance of extramedullary disease (EMD) detected on pre-transplant 18F-FDG PET/CT in patients with multiple myeloma: Results of PIPET-M trial.

Background: It is difficult to prognosticate the post-Autologous Stem Cell Transplant (ASCT) responses in multiple myeloma (MM) with the currently available prognostication models. 18F-FDGPET/CT has numerous advantages to prognosticate the post-transplant responses by assessing extramedullary disease (EMD) in addition to the extent of active disease. We aimed at identifying the prognostic value of EMD in predicting progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Methods: This is a single centre prospective study from western India during a study period of 2014-2022 (with a median follow-up of patients of 6 years). All ASCT patients underwent 18F-FDG-PET/CT as part of pre-transplant workup. The conditioning and treatment protocols were not modified based on PET/CT findings. EMD on PET/CT was correlated with pre-transplant biochemical markers and post-ASCT survival/ progression (as defined by revised IMWG criteria). Statistical analysis was done using SPSS ver. 20. Results: Patients with pre-ASCT EMD had a hazard-ratio for post-transplant all-cause mortality of 5.46 (p-0.045). Pre-transplant ß2M and LDH were significantly higher in patients with EMD (p-0.036). The 6-year median OS in patients with and without EMD were 57.1%, and 80.6% respectively. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed poorer OS in patients with EMD χ2 (1-0.496, p-0.481). There was no significant difference in clinical or biochemical EFS among patients with EMD. Conclusion: EMD detected on 18F-FDG-PET/CT has a higher hazard for mortality and is significantly correlated with pre-transplant higher ß2M and LDH levels. Thus, EMD by pre-transplant 18F-FDG-PET/CT has a significant prognostic role.

No role of common NOD2 gene variants in predicting sepsis related outcomes in Indian patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplant.

Background: High-risk single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-2 (NOD2) gene are associated with high susceptibility for infections and inflammation due to risk of inappropriate cytokine production and NF-κB activation. We studied the incidence of three high-risk NOD2 gene SNPs (8, 12 and 13) among BM-transplant (BMT) recipients. Methods: Sequential patients undergoing BMT over 1-year period were prospectively studied. Patients were tested with MspI/HhaI or NlaIV restriction-endonucleases (Euryx, Gdansk, Poland) for NOD2 gene SNPs 8, 12, and 13, respectively. Regimen-related organ toxicity was graded using the Seattle-Bearman criteria. Results: Forty patients were enrolled, their median age was 38 years (range 3-64), and 52.5% were males. Twenty patients each (50%) underwent autologous and allogeneic BMT. Majority of the patients (n = 38, 95%) developed febrile-neutropenia in the post-transplant period and 4 patients died due to overwhelming sepsis within day +100. Acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) [grade I-II (n = 3) and grade III-IV (n = 6)] was observed in 9/20 allogeneic HSCT recipients. None of our 40 patients showed presence of any of the three NOD2 gene SNPs. Conclusion: The 3 commonly observed high risk SNPs (8,12, and 13) of NOD2 genes were not present in study population. It is quite likely that due to geographical and racial variations these polymorphisms are completely absent in North India. NOD2 gene is highly diverse and polymorphic variants can be absolutely different in various populations. Larger studies targeting sequencing of the whole NOD2 gene can convincingly rule out or confirm the role of NOD2 gene variants in Indian population.

Aberrant expression of cytokines in polycythemia vera correlate with the risk of thrombosis.

BACKGROUND: Thrombo-hemorrhagic complications cause significant morbidity and mortality in patients with polycythemia vera (PV). OBJECTIVES: To assay and correlate inflammatory cytokines with the thrombotic risk in PV patients. METHODS: This prospective observational study was carried out at Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India over 18-months. The study enrolled 52 patients with PV (newly diagnosed = 28, follow-up = 24), and 20 age/sex-matched controls. Cytokine analysis for IL 1ß, IL2, IL4, IL6, IL8, IL10, IL11, IL12/23p40, TNFα, and IFN-γ was performed on the peripheral blood (before treatment initiation for newly diagnosed cases, and after 7 days of stopping drugs for follow-up cases) by flow cytometry-based cytokine bead analysis (CBA) using CBA kits (BD™ biosciences, USA). Results were analyzed using SPSS Statistics 22.0. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 51.9 ± 13 years. Levels of IL-6, IL-1ß, IL-8, IL-11, IL-12/23p40 were significantly raised, however, TNF-α, and IFN-γ levels were significantly lower in the PV population as compared to controls. A significant correlation between the levels of IL-6, IL-2, and IL-8 with the overall risk of thrombosis in PV patients was observed. CONCLUSIONS: PV patients display an aberrant pattern of plasma cytokine expression, the levels of which correlate with the thrombotic risk.

Evaluation of a flow cytometric test for G6PD-deficient erythrocytes.

OBJECTIVE: Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, an X-linked recessive disorder, is the commonest erythrocytic enzymopathy worldwide. Reliable diagnosis and severity prediction in G6PD-deficient/heterozygous females remain challenging. A recently developed flow cytometric test for G6PD deficiency has shown promise in precisely identifying deficient females. This paper presents our experiences with this test in a subtropical setting and presents a modification in flow cytometric data acquisition strategy. METHODS: The methaemoglobin reduction + ferryl Hb generation-based flow cytometric G6PD test was compared with the screening methaemoglobin reduction test (MRT) and confirmatory G6PD enzyme activity assay (EAA) in 20 G6PD-deficient males, 22 G6PD-heterozygous/deficient females and 20 controls. Stained cells were also assessed for bright/dim G6PD activity under a fluorescent microscope. RESULTS: Flow cytometry separated and quantified %bright cells in heterozygous/deficient females, objectively classifying them into 6 normal (>85% bright cells), 14 intermediate (10-85%) and two G6PD-deficient (<10% bright cells). Concordance with MRT was 89% (55/62 cases) and with EAA was 77% (48/62 cases). Fluorometrically predicted violet laser excitation (405-nm) with signal acquisition in the 425-475 nm region was a technical advancement noted for the first time in this paper. CONCLUSION: Flow cytometry/fluorescence microscopy represent technically straightforward methods for the detection and quantification of G6PD-deficient erythrocytes. Based on our results, we recommend their application as a first-line investigation to screen females who are prescribed an oxidant drug like primaquine or dapsone.

Hematological characteristics, cytogenetic features, and post-induction measurable residual disease in thymic stromal lymphopoietin receptor (TSLPR) overexpressed B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in an Indian cohort.

The overexpression of cytokine receptor-like factor-2 (CRLF2) identified by anti-thymic stromal lymphopoietin receptor/TSLPR flow cytometry (FCM) has been reported as a screening tool for the identification of BCR-ABL1-like B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia/B-ALL with CRLF2 re-arrangement. TSLPR expression was studied prospectively in consecutive 478 B-ALLs (≤ 12 years (n = 244); 13-25 years (n = 129); > 25 years (n = 105)) and correlated with various hematological parameters and end-of-induction measurable residual disease (day 29; MRD ≥ 0.01% by 10-color FCM). TSLPR positivity in ≥ 10% leukemic cells was detected in 14.6% (n = 70) of B-ALLs. CRLF2 re-arrangement was detected in eight cases (11.4%) including P2RY8-CRLF2 (n = 6), and IgH-CRLF2 (n = 2) with a median TSLPR positivity of 48.8% and 99% leukemic cells, respectively. Recurrent gene fusions/RGF (BCR-ABL1 (17.1%); ETV6-RUNX1 (4.2%), TCF3-PBX1 (1.4%)), other BCR-ABL1-like chimeric gene fusions/CGFs (PDGFRB-rearrangement (2.9%), IgH-EPOR (1.4%)), CRLF2 extra-copies/hyperdiploidy (17.1%), and IgH translocation without a known partner (10%) were also detected in TSLPR-positive patients. CD20 positivity (52.9% vs 38.5%; p = 0.02) as well as iAMP21 (4.3% vs 0.5%; p = 0.004) was significantly more frequent in TSLPR-positive cases. TSLPR-positive patients did not show a significantly higher MRD, compared to TSLPR-negative cases (37% vs 33%). Increasing the threshold cut-off (from ≥ 10 to > 50% or > 74%) increased the specificity to 88% and 100% respectively in identifying CRLF2 translocation. TSLPR expression is not exclusive for CRLF2 translocations and can be seen with various other RGFs, necessitating their testing before its application in diagnostic algorithms. In patients with high TSLPR positivity (> 50%), the testing may be restricted to CRLF2 aberrancies, while patients with 10-50% TSLPR positivity need to be tested for both CRLF2- and non-CRLF2 BCR-ABL1-like CGFs.

Role of pre-transplant chest high-resolution computed tomography and serum galactomannan index in predicting post-transplant invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant recipients.

INTRODUCTION: The role of pre-HCT chest high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and serum galactomannan index (GMI) in predicting the post-allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is debatable. METHODS: This was a single-center, prospective study from 2014 to 2019. The primary objective was to study if pre-HCT chest HRCT and serum GMI predicted IPA post-HCT. The secondary objective was day +100 mortality. All consecutive, consenting patients of ≥12 years of age undergoing allo-HCT were included and had pre-HCT chest HRCT and serum GMI. All patients received mold active antifungal prophylaxis. The EORTC/MSG criteria were used for the diagnosis of IPA. RESULTS: A total of 82 patients with median age 27 years (12-59 years) were included. The underlying diagnoses included hematological malignancies (79%) and aplastic anemia (21%). Fifteen percent of patients was treated for prior history of probable IPA (>6 weeks before HCT). Pre-HCT chest HRCT satisfied EORTC clinical criteria in 24% patients. Serum GMI ≥0.5 was seen in 27% of patients. Post-HCT probable IPA was seen in 24% of patients. There were more patients with pre-HCT chest HRCT findings satisfying EORTC clinical criteria (45% vs. 18%, P = .014) and GMI ≥0.5 (45% vs. 21%, P = .03) in the group with post-HCT IPA compared to those without IPA. There was higher day+100 mortality in patients with post-HCT IPA (55% vs. 18%, P = .001). CONCLUSIONS: The presence of EORTC clinical criteria on pre-HCT chest HRCT, serum GMI ≥0.5, and prior history of IPA predicted post-HCT IPA.

Impact of broad-spectrum antibiotic exposures and multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteremia on hematopoietic cell transplantation outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: There is a close association between the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, gut microbiome alteration, multidrug resistant (MDR) gram-negative bacilli (GNB) bacteremia, graft versus host disease (GVHD), and mortality post-allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT). This study reports the impact of the high use of carbapenems and colistin and MDR bacteremia pre- and post-HCT on HCT outcomes. METHODS: This was a single-center, partial retrospective, and prospective study from 2016 to 2020. Both pre- and post-HCT antibiotic exposures and blood culture/sensitivity were recorded. MDR GNB was defined as either non-susceptibility to third-generation cephalosporin or carbapenems. In the absence of positive cultures, the treating physician escalated antibiotics from third-generation cephalosporins to carbapenem and/or colistin as per clinical discretion. De-escalation policy was not strictly enforced. RESULTS: MDR GNB bacteremia was seen in 29 of 76 (38%) of patients peri-HCT. The utilization rates for carbapenems and colistin was significantly higher in the cohort with MDR GNB bacteremia pre-HCT (70% vs. 32%, p = 0.002 and 31% vs. 6.4%, p = 0.007, respectively) and post-HCT (100% vs. 74.5%, p = 0.002, and 55.2% vs. 8.5%, p < 0.0001, respectively). The cohort with MDR GNB bacteremia had significantly more severe acute GVHD at day+100 (45% vs. 17.5%, p = 0.009). The median survival was 204 days compared to not reached in the cohort without any MDR GNB bacteremia (p = 0.005). CONCLUSION: This study shows pre- and post-HCT MDR GNB bacteremia is associated with an increased risk of severe acute GVHD and mortality. Patients with MDR GNB bacteremia had higher exposure to pre- and post-HCT carbapenems and colistin.

Variables affecting the presence of mesenchymal stromal cells in peripheral blood and their relationship with apheresis products.

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) demonstrate the properties of self-renewal, multipotentiality, and immunosuppression, which are responsible for their widespread clinical applications in tissue repair and regeneration. MSCs have been isolated from bone marrow, adipose tissue, and cord blood using culture in specialised media. Their presence in peripheral blood (PB) is debatable. We studied the presence of MSCs at baseline (PB) and following mobilisation with growth factors [PB and apheresis product (AP)] in patients undergoing autologous stem cell transplantation and healthy donors using flow cytometry. We conclude that both mobilised PB and AP are potential sources of MSCs. Given their small numbers in PB/AP, clinical use is feasible following ex-vivo expansion. Variables affecting the presence of MSCs in PB and AP are also discussed.