Outcome of patients relapsing early after autologous stem cell transplantation for multiple myeloma
8022 Background: Autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) is the standard approach for eligible patients (pts) with multiple myeloma (MM). The median time to relapse after early ASCT is 2–3 yrs and overall survival (OS) is 4–5 yrs. Though various risk factors have been identified for early relapse, the outcome of this group of pts is not clearly described. With the advent of newer therapies, it is important to understand the natural history of MM in these pts to design treatment strategies. Methods: A total of 432 pts with MM, undergoing ASCT within 12 months (mos) of diagnosis, with a minimum follow up of 12 mos were studied. Clinical and laboratory data were obtained from a prospectively maintained database and clinical records. Pts were divided into 2 groups: early relapse (relapse <12 mos from ASCT) and late relapse (either relapsed >12 mos after ASCT or disease free at last follow up). Results: There were 94 pts (22%) in the early relapse group and among the late relapse group (N=338), 171 had relapsed beyond 12 mos and 167 were disease free at last follow up. The median time to ASCT was similar in all groups. The early relapse group had a significantly shorter median OS from diagnosis (23.9 vs. 82.2 months; P < 0.001) and from transplant (17.6 mos vs. not reached; P < 0.001). The median OS from relapse was 7.9 mos in this group compared to 39.6 months for the rest. In univariate analysis, elevated CRP, high BM plasma cell%, labeling index (PCLI) >1%, abnormal cytogenetics, presence of circulating PCs at harvest and lack of CR from ASCT predicted for early relapse. In multivariate analysis, an elevated PCLI (RR=2.9; P=0.002) and failure to achieve CR (RR 2.7; P=0.002) was associated with early relapse. Conclusions: Pts who relapse within 12 mos of an ASCT have a very short survival and should be offered trials evaluating novel therapies and combinations. Survival figures from this study represent the benchmark for the comparison of novel approaches in this population. Pts with poor prognostic factors have a short PFS after ASCT and should be considered for alternative approaches. Inability to achieve CR appears to predict shorter PFS and clinical trials evaluating maintenance therapy should be offered in these pts. No significant financial relationships to disclose.