Dr. Rogers on the Safety Profile of Ianalumab/Ibrutinib in CLL

Kerry A. Rogers, MD, a hematologist/oncologist and an assistant professor in the Department of Hematology at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center–James, discusses the safety profile of the combination of ianalumab (VAY736) plus ibrutinib (Imbruvica), in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).

Overall, antibody infusions with ianalumab were well tolerated among patients, Rogers says. Some incidence of grade 3 or higher neutropenia was reported, however, no associated infections that would otherwise limit the use of Ianalumab were observed, Rogers explains. Additionally, the incidence of neutropenia were not determined to be of clinical importance in terms of infectious complications, Rogers adds.

The tolerability of ianalumab was not surprising, as antibodies are generally tolerable, according to Rogers. Investigators did not expect any unforeseen adverse effects. However, it was surprising to see results from a phase 1 trial where patients experienced elimination of their disease and were able to stop treatment, according to Rogers. Although the study was not powered to detect these types of responses, it was still exciting to observe this kind of efficacy, Rogers concludes.