A five-year follow-up analysis of the ZUMA-5 Phase 2 study shows promising results for Yescarta (axicabtagene ciloleucel) in patients with relapsed/refractory non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL), specifically follicular lymphoma (FL) and marginal zone lymphoma (MZL). The analysis reveals durable responses and long-term survival after Yescarta treatment, with a median overall response rate of 90% and a complete response rate of 75%. Notably, over half of the patients were alive at the time of analysis, without needing further therapy, suggesting potential curative properties.
These findings are particularly encouraging as FL and MZL are typically considered incurable, with patients frequently experiencing relapse. The demonstrated long-term survival and manageable safety profile of Yescarta offer a significant advancement in treatment options, potentially shifting the paradigm from managing the disease to achieving a cure for these difficult-to-treat blood cancers. This extended follow-up provides crucial real-world data on the long-term efficacy and safety of CAR T-cell therapy, solidifying its role in the treatment landscape.
The ZUMA-5 study data showcased a median duration of response of 60.4 months and a median progression-free survival of 62.2 months. Importantly, the median time to next therapy was not reached, further emphasizing the sustained benefit of Yescarta. The 60-month overall survival estimate was 69%, reinforcing the potential for long-term remission. No new safety concerns related to Yescarta emerged during this five-year analysis. While some patients experienced events unrelated to the treatment, these were not attributed to Yescarta, and the overall safety profile remained consistent with previous analyses.
This long-term data supports the potential for Yescarta to become a cornerstone in the treatment of relapsed/refractory FL and MZL. The high rates of durable response and long-term survival observed, coupled with the manageable safety profile, suggest a paradigm shift towards curative potential for these indolent NHL subtypes. This advancement not only offers hope for patients but also paves the way for further research and development in CAR T-cell therapies, expanding their application and improving outcomes for individuals battling these challenging cancers. The data underscores the transformative impact of this innovative therapy and its potential to reshape the future of cancer care.
Jon Napitupulu is Director of Media Relations at The Clinical Trial Vanguard. Jon, a computer data scientist, focuses on the latest clinical trial industry news and trends.
