The 53rd annual meeting of the American Society of Hematology (ASH) was held in San Diego, CA from December 10-13, 2011. Highlights of the meeting included maturing data from the Pharmacyclics BTK inhibitor, PCI-32765; top-line Phase II data from the PACE study of ponatinib (ARIA) in AML/CLL; and continuing positive developments in myelofibrosis, including from Jakafi (ruxolitinib, INCY) and CYT387 (YMI). Additionally, Celgene maintained its typically large presence at the meeting with numerous Revlimid (lenalidomide) and pomalidomide presentations, while Seattle Genetics debuted its recently-approved HL/ALCL drug, Adcetris.

Highlights:

• PCI-32765 (PCYC) for CLL/NHL. Much excitement surrounded the BTK inhibitor and updated data showing strong single agent activity in CLL as well as initial efficacy data in MCL. Very early DLBCL data were also presented.

• Ponatinib (ARIA) for AML/CLL. Top-line results from the PACE study suggested efficacy in relapsed/intolerant CML and AML patients.

• Jakafi (INCY) and CYT387 (YMI) for myelofibrosis. Positive updated data were reported for both JAK inhibitors. Subgroup analyses demonstrating Jakafi efficacy across a broad patient population were shown as well as quality-of-life analyses supporting its efficacy. A single poster presentation of CYT387 caused excitement over durable spleen and transfusion responses.

• Revlimid (CELG) and pomalidomide (CELG) for multiple myeloma. New analyses continued to allay concerns over an increased risk of second primary malignancies associated with Revlimid and supported the migration of Revlimid into front-line and maintenance therapy. Final data were presented from two pomalidomide studies indicating its efficacy in Revlimid refractory patients.

• Adcetris (SGEN) for Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Efficacy data were presented suggesting Adcetris could move into front line therapy in combination with standard AVD treatment.

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