By: Phillip McLeod

The European Commission (EC) has approved blinatumomab (Blincyto) as a consolidation therapy for adult patients newly diagnosed with Philadelphia chromosome-negative, CD19-positive B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL).

This approval follows the phase 3 E1910 study, which demonstrated that blinatumomab significantly improved overall survival when added to chemotherapy compared to chemotherapy alone.

Blinatumomab, a bispecific T-cell engager (BiTE^®) immuno-oncology therapy, is designed to target CD19 surface antigens on B cells, according to Amgen, the manufacturer of the treatment.

“While there has been some treatment progress, many patients with newly diagnosed Philadelphia chromosome-negative B-ALL remain at high risk of relapse,” said Robin Foà, MD, emeritus professor of hematology, Sapienza University of Rome. “The E1910 study results highlight that Blincyto has the potential to advance frontline consolidation treatment, including patients who are minimal residual disease (MRD)-negative, offering a crucial new option to achieve deeper remissions and improve long-term survival.”