Overview
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a complex disease with varying prognoses. The MCL International Prognostic Index (MIPI) score is a commonly used tool assisting in prognosis, however, it lacks nuance—excluding high-risk biologic and genetic features like TP53 mutations and blastoid/pleomorphic morphology which are known to predict inferior outcomes.
This study analyzed real-world data from the Flatiron Health Research Database to understand the characteristics and outcomes of high-risk MCL patients, defined by the presence of TP53 mutations, high Ki67 proliferation index, or aggressive morphology. Among 1,657 patients, 28.1% were identified as high-risk. These patients had poorer outcomes, with shorter durations of treatment and survival compared to the broader MCL cohort.
Why this matters
The study underscores the importance of comprehensive biomarker testing in managing MCL. High-risk patients often face worse outcomes, yet testing for key markers like TP53 and Ki67 is not routinely performed. By highlighting the disparities in treatment and survival, this research advocates for integrating biomarker testing into standard care, allowing for more tailored and effective treatment strategies. These insights aim to enhance clinical decision-making and improve outcomes for those with high-risk MCL, paving the way for more personalized healthcare approaches.