Andrew A. Lane, MD, PhD

Dr. Andrew Lane discusses CD123-targeted therapies, particularly the antibody-drug conjugate pivekimab sunirine (PVEK), for treatment of blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN). He notes PVEK's promising response rates and safety profile from early trial data, including lower risk of concerning side effects like capillary leak syndrome that can occur with the currently approved CD123-targeting agent tagraxofusp. In closing, he emphasizes accurately diagnosing BPDCN via expert hematopathology review and referral to specialized centers taking a cross-disciplinary approach, as combining emerging CD123-directed therapies with stem cell transplant as appropriate gives the best chance for optimal BPDCN management.

Andrew Lane, MD, PhD, explains that blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is a rare blood cancer that usually presents with red to purple skin lesions and requires an expert hematopathologist to diagnose using specific immunohistochemistry markers. He notes that central nervous system involvement is more common than previously thought, so all BPDCN patients should get lumbar punctures and intrathecal chemotherapy. The treatment goal is remission followed by allogeneic stem cell transplant for possible long-term remission or cure, as no therapies alone have proven sufficient. The only FDA-approved drug is tagraxofusp, though intensive ALL-like chemotherapy remains standard.

Andrew A. Lane, MD, PhD, physician, assistant professor of medicine, Harvard Medical School, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, discusses the identification of a rare blood disorder called blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm.