To conduct a systematic literature review and meta-analysis to summarize the efficacy of anti-BCMA CAR T-cell therapy for RRMM.

METHODS: The PubMed and Embase databases were searched for English language papers and conference abstracts published through 31 December 2019. Studies were selected for inclusion if RRMM patients were treated with Anti-BCMA CAR T-cell therapy. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted to estimated the pooled overall response rate (ORR) and complete response rate (CR). Quality appraisal was conducted using the newcastle ottawa scale.

RESULTS:

A total of 2,061 records were identified, of which 17 references met the selection criteria for systematic review and meta-analysis. The median age of patients was 58 years. Median follow-up duration ranged from 4 to 48 weeks. All studies were conducted using a single arm trial design. The median trial size was 14 patients (Range: 6-57). The pooled overall response rate was 87% (N=17 studies, n=309, 95% CI: 80%-92%; measure of heterogeneity I² estimate was 49.8%). The pooled complete response rate was 32% (N=14 studies, n=278, 95% CI: 20%-46%; measure of heterogeneity I² estimate was 78.0%). Due to small sample sizes, open label and non-comparative design majority of the studies ranked low in quality appraisal.

CONCLUSIONS: Anti-BCMA CAR T-Cell therapy is a promising option for relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma patients, though there is a need for higher quality studies to confirm the safety and efficacy