Highlights in Myeloproliferative Neoplasms From the 2017 American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting and Exposition

February 2018 Volume 16, Issue 2, Supplement 4 A SPECIAL MEETING REVIEW EDITION Highlights in Myeloproliferative Neoplasms From the 2017 American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting and Exposition A Review of Selected Presentations From the 2017 American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting and Exposition December 9-12, 2017 Atlanta, Georgia Special Reporting on: Results From the 208-Week (4-Year) Follow-Up of the RESPONSE Trial, a Phase 3 Study Comparing Ruxolitinib With Best Available Therapy for the Treatment of Polycythemia Vera Ropeginterferon Alfa-2b Induces High Rates of Clinical, Hematological and Molecular Responses in Polycythemia Vera: Two-Year Results From the First Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial Characteristics and Survival of Patients With Chronic Phase Myelofibrosis and Elevated Blasts (5-9%), and the Effect of Therapy With the JAK2 Inhibitor Ruxolitinib Single-Arm Salvage Therapy With Pegylated Interferon Alfa-2a for Patients With High-Risk Polycythemia Vera or High-Risk Essential Thrombocythemia Who Are Either Hydroxyurea-Resistant or Intolerant: Final Results of the Myeloproliferative Disorders Research Consortium Protocol 111 Global Phase II Trial Primary Analysis of JUMP, a Phase 3b, Expanded-Access Study Evaluating the Safety and Efficacy of Ruxolitinib in Patients With Myelofibrosis (N=2233) Sotatercept (ACE-011) Alone and in Combination With Ruxolitinib in Patients With Myeloproliferative Neoplasm Associated Myelofibrosis and Anemia Promising Results of a Phase 1/2 Clinical Trial of Ruxolitinib in Patients With Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia PLUS Meeting Abstract Summaries With Expert Commentary by: Srdan Verstovsek, MD, PhD Professor, Department of Leukemia Division of Cancer Medicine The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Houston, Texas ON THE WEB: hematologyandoncology.net Indexed through the National Library of Medicine (PubMed/MEDLINE), PubMed Central (PMC), and EMBASE

In patients with polycythemia vera uncontrolled with hydroxyurea PROVIDE THE PATH THAT MAY LEAD TO MORE CONTROL INTERVENE WITH JAKAFI Indications and Usage Jakafi is indicated for treatment of patients with polycythemia vera who have had an inadequate response to or are intolerant of hydroxyurea. Important Safety Information Treatment with Jakafi can cause thrombocytopenia, anemia and neutropenia, which are each dose-related effects. Perform a pre-treatment complete blood count (CBC) and monitor CBCs every 2 to 4 weeks until doses are stabilized, and then as clinically indicated Manage thrombocytopenia by reducing the dose or temporarily interrupting Jakafi. Platelet transfusions may be necessary Patients developing anemia may require blood transfusions and/or dose modifications of Jakafi Severe neutropenia (ANC <0.5 10 9 /L) was generally reversible by withholding Jakafi until recovery Jakafi is a registered trademark of Incyte. 2017, Incyte Corporation. All rights reserved. RUX-2216 12/17 Serious bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal and viral infections have occurred. Delay starting Jakafi until active serious infections have resolved. Observe patients receiving Jakafi for signs and symptoms of infection and manage promptly Tuberculosis (TB) infection has been reported. Observe patients taking Jakafi for signs and symptoms of active TB and manage promptly. Prior to initiating Jakafi, evaluate patients for TB risk factors and test those at higher risk for latent infection. Consult a physician with expertise in the treatment of TB before starting Jakafi in patients with evidence of active or latent TB. Continuation of Jakafi during treatment of active TB should be based on the overall risk-benefit determination Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) has occurred with Jakafi treatment. If PML is suspected, stop Jakafi and evaluate Advise patients about early signs and symptoms of herpes zoster and to seek early treatment Increases in hepatitis B viral load with or without associated elevations in alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase have been reported in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections. Monitor and treat patients with chronic HBV infection according to clinical guidelines

Significantly more patients receiving Ja kafi achieved the composite primary and key secondary end points 2,3 Jakafi is indicated for treatment of patients with polycythemia vera who have had an inadequate response to or are intolerant of hydroxyurea. Jakafi offers a durable treatment alternative Components of Primary End Point at Week 32 2 Patients Patients 80 receiving Composite Jakafi saw greater Primary improvements End Point in the primary 60 end point* measures compared with best available therapy 1 P < 0.0001 40 20 0 23% a (n = 25) <1% b (n = 1) Hct Control + Spleen Volume Reduction 60% (n = 66) Hct Control Individual Components of Primary End Point 40% (n = 44) BAT, 19% best available therapy; Hct, hematocrit. (n = 21) <1% (n = 1) 35% Spleen Volume Reduction Jakafi (n = 110) BAT (n = 112) National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN ) recommends ruxolitinib as a treatment option for patients with polycythemia vera who have had an inadequate response to or are intolerant of cytoreductive therapy 1 BAT, best available therapy; CI, confidence interval; Hct, hematocrit. a 95% CI, 15%-32% b 95% CI, 0%-5% * The composite primary end point was defined as Hct control without phlebotomy eligibility and a 35% spleen volume reduction as measured by CT or MRI. To achieve the Hct control end point, patients could not become eligible for phlebotomy between weeks 8 and 32. Phlebotomy eligibility was defined as Hct >45% that is 3 percentage points higher than baseline or Hct >48% (lower value). The RESPONSE (Randomized study of Efficacy and Safety in POlycythemia vera with JAK inhibitor ruxolitinib versus best available care) trial was a randomized, open-label, active-controlled phase 3 trial comparing Jakafi with BAT in 222 patients with polycythemia vera. All patients were required to demonstrate Hct control between 40% and 45% prior to randomization. BAT included hydroxyurea (60%), interferon/pegylated interferon (12%), anagrelide (7%), pipobroman (2%), lenalidomide/thalidomide (5%), and observation (15%). Patients enrolled in the study had been diagnosed with polycythemia vera for at least 24 weeks, had an inadequate response to or were intolerant of hydroxyurea, required phlebotomy for Hct control, and exhibited splenomegaly. After week 32, patients were able to cross over to Jakafi treatment. A durability analysis was performed at week 80 in the original Jakafi arm. Patients Achieving Complete Hematologic Remission 2a Patients 80 60 40 20 0 24% b (n = 26) P = 0.0016 8% c (n = 9) Complete Hematologic Remission at Week 32 Jakafi (n = 110) BAT (n = 112) Durable response at week 80 2 19 of 25 patients (76%) who achieved a primary response at week 32 in the Jakafi arm maintained their response 51 of 66 patients (77%) who achieved Hct control at week 32 in the Jakafi arm maintained their response 43 of 44 patients (98%) who achieved a 35% spleen volume reduction at week 32 in the Jakafi arm maintained their response 15 of 26 patients (58%) who achieved complete hematologic remission at week 32 in the Jakafi arm maintained their response BAT, best available therapy; CI, confidence interval. a Complete hematologic remission was defined as achieving hematocrit control (as specified in the primary end point), platelet count 400 10 9 /L, and white blood cell count 10 10 9 /L. 2,3 b 95% CI, 16%-33% c 95% CI, 4%-15% Durable count control When discontinuing Jakafi, myeloproliferative neoplasm-related symptoms may return within one week. After discontinuation, some patients with myelofibrosis have experienced fever, respiratory distress, hypotension, DIC, or multi-organ failure. If any of these occur after discontinuation or while tapering Jakafi, evaluate and treat any intercurrent illness and consider restarting or increasing the dose of Jakafi. Instruct patients not to interrupt or discontinue Jakafi without consulting their physician. When discontinuing or interrupting Jakafi for reasons other than thrombocytopenia or neutropenia, consider gradual tapering rather than abrupt discontinuation Non-melanoma skin cancers including basal cell, squamous cell, and Merkel cell carcinoma have occurred. Perform periodic skin examinations Treatment with Jakafi has been associated with increases in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides. Assess lipid parameters 8-12 weeks after initiating Jakafi. Monitor and treat according to clinical guidelines for the management of hyperlipidemia The three most frequent non-hematologic adverse reactions (incidence >10%) were bruising, dizziness and headache A dose modification is recommended when administering Jakafi with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or fluconazole or in patients with renal or hepatic impairment. Patients should be closely monitored and the dose titrated based on safety and efficacy Use of Jakafi during pregnancy is not recommended and should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Women taking Jakafi should not breastfeed during treatment and for two weeks after the final dose Please see Brief Summary of Full Prescribing Information for Jakafi on the following pages. To learn more about intervening with Jakafi, visit Jakafi.com/HCP. References: 1. Referenced with permission from the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines ) for Myeloproliferative Neoplasms V.2.2018. National Comprehensive Cancer Network, Inc. 2017. All rights reserved. Accessed September 7, 2017. To view the most recent and complete version of the guideline, go online to NCCN.org. NCCN makes no warranties of any kind whatsoever regarding their content, use or application and disclaims any responsibility for their application or use in any way. 2. Jakafi Prescribing Information. Wilmington, DE: Incyte Corporation. 3. Vannucchi AM, Kiladjian JJ, Griesshammer M, et al. Ruxolitinib versus standard therapy for the treatment of polycythemia vera. N Engl J Med. 2015;372(5):426-435.

BRIEF SUMMARY: For Full Prescribing Information, see package insert. CONTRAINDICATIONS None. WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Thrombocytopenia, Anemia and Neutropenia Treatment with Jakafi can cause thrombocytopenia, anemia and neutropenia. [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) in Full Prescribing Information]. Manage thrombocytopenia by reducing the dose or temporarily interrupting Jakafi. Platelet transfusions may be necessary [see Dosage and Administration (2.1.1) and Adverse Reactions (6.1) in Full Prescribing Information]. Patients developing anemia may require blood transfusions and/or dose modifications of Jakafi. Severe neutropenia (ANC less than 0.5 X 10 9 /L) was generally reversible by withholding Jakafi until recovery [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) in Full Prescribing Information]. Perform a pre-treatment complete blood count (CBC) and monitor CBCs every 2 to 4 weeks until doses are stabilized, and then as clinically indicated [see Dosage and Administration (2.1.1) and Adverse Reactions (6.1) in Full Prescribing Information]. Risk of Infection Serious bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal and viral infections have occurred. Delay starting therapy with Jakafi until active serious infections have resolved. Observe patients receiving Jakafi for signs and symptoms of infection and manage promptly. Tuberculosis Tuberculosis infection has been reported in patients receiving Jakafi. Observe patients receiving Jakafi for signs and symptoms of active tuberculosis and manage promptly. Prior to initiating Jakafi, patients should be evaluated for tuberculosis risk factors, and those at higher risk should be tested for latent infection. Risk factors include, but are not limited to, prior residence in or travel to countries with a high prevalence of tuberculosis, close contact with a person with active tuberculosis, and a history of active or latent tuberculosis where an adequate course of treatment cannot be confirmed. For patients with evidence of active or latent tuberculosis, consult a physician with expertise in the treatment of tuberculosis before starting Jakafi. The decision to continue Jakafi during treatment of active tuberculosis should be based on the overall risk-benefit determination. Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) has occurred with Jakafi treatment. If PML is suspected, stop Jakafi and evaluate. Herpes Zoster Advise patients about early signs and symptoms of herpes zoster and to seek treatment as early as possible if suspected [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) in Full Prescribing Information]. Hepatitis B Hepatitis B viral load (HBV-DNA titer) increases, with or without associated elevations in alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, have been reported in patients with chronic HBV infections taking Jakafi. The effect of Jakafi on viral replication in patients with chronic HBV infection is unknown. Patients with chronic HBV infection should be treated and monitored according to clinical guidelines. Symptom Exacerbation Following Interruption or Discontinuation of Treatment with Jakafi Following discontinuation of Jakafi, symptoms from myeloproliferative neoplasms may return to pretreatment levels over a period of approximately one week. Some patients with MF have experienced one or more of the following adverse events after discontinuing Jakafi: fever, respiratory distress, hypotension, DIC, or multi-organ failure. If one or more of these occur after discontinuation of, or while tapering the dose of Jakafi, evaluate for and treat any intercurrent illness and consider restarting or increasing the dose of Jakafi. Instruct patients not to interrupt or discontinue Jakafi therapy without consulting their physician. When discontinuing or interrupting therapy with Jakafi for reasons other than thrombocytopenia or neutropenia [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) in Full Prescribing Information], consider tapering the dose of Jakafi gradually rather than discontinuing abruptly. Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer Non-melanoma skin cancers including basal cell, squamous cell, and Merkel cell carcinoma have occurred in patients treated with Jakafi. Perform periodic skin examinations. Lipid Elevations Treatment with Jakafi has been associated with increases in lipid parameters including total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides. The effect of these lipid parameter elevations on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality has not been determined in patients treated with Jakafi. Assess lipid parameters approximately 8-12 weeks following initiation of Jakafi therapy. Monitor and treat according to clinical guidelines for the management of hyperlipidemia. ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Thrombocytopenia, Anemia and Neutropenia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) in Full Prescribing Information] Risk of Infection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) in Full Prescribing Information] Symptom Exacerbation Following Interruption or Discontinuation of Treatment with Jakafi [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) in Full Prescribing Information] Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) in Full Prescribing Information]. Clinical Trials Experience in Myelofibrosis Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The safety of Jakafi was assessed in 617 patients in six clinical studies with a median duration of follow-up of 10.9 months, including 301 patients with MF in two Phase 3 studies. In these two Phase 3 studies, patients had a median duration of exposure to Jakafi of 9.5 months (range 0.5 to 17 months), with 89% of patients treated for more than 6 months and 25% treated for more than 12 months. One hundred and eleven (111) patients started treatment at 15 mg twice daily and 190 patients started at 20 mg twice daily. In patients starting treatment with 15 mg twice daily (pretreatment platelet counts of 100 to 200 X 10 9 /L) and 20 mg twice daily (pretreatment platelet counts greater than 200 X 10 9 /L), 65% and 25% of patients, respectively, required a dose reduction below the starting dose within the first 8 weeks of therapy. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study of Jakafi, among the 155 patients treated with Jakafi, the most frequent adverse drug reactions were thrombocytopenia and anemia [see Table 2 ]. Thrombocytopenia, anemia and neutropenia are dose related effects. The three most frequent non-hematologic adverse reactions were bruising, dizziness and headache [see Table 1]. Discontinuation for adverse events, regardless of causality, was observed in 11% of patients treated with Jakafi and 11% of patients treated with placebo. Table 1 presents the most common adverse reactions occurring in patients who received Jakafi in the double-blind, placebo-controlled study during randomized treatment. Table 1: Myelofibrosis: Adverse Reactions Occurring in Patients on Jakafi in the Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Study During Randomized Treatment Adverse Reactions Bruising b 23 <1 0 15 0 0 Dizziness c 18 <1 0 7 0 0 Headache 15 0 0 5 0 0 Urinary Tract Infections d 9 0 0 5 <1 <1 Weight Gain e 7 <1 0 1 <1 0 Flatulence 5 0 0 <1 0 0 Herpes Zoster f 2 0 0 <1 0 0 a National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE), version 3.0 b includes contusion, ecchymosis, hematoma, injection site hematoma, periorbital hematoma, vessel puncture site hematoma, increased tendency to bruise, petechiae, purpura c includes dizziness, postural dizziness, vertigo, balance disorder, Meniere s Disease, labyrinthitis d includes urinary tract infection, cystitis, urosepsis, urinary tract infection bacterial, kidney infection, pyuria, bacteria urine, bacteria urine identified, nitrite urine present e includes weight increased, abnormal weight gain f includes herpes zoster and post-herpetic neuralgia Description of Selected Adverse Drug Reactions: Anemia In the two Phase 3 clinical studies, median time to onset of first CTCAE Grade 2 or higher anemia was approximately 6 weeks. One patient (<1%) discontinued treatment because of anemia. In patients receiving Jakafi, mean decreases in hemoglobin reached a nadir of approximately 1.5 to 2.0 g/dl below baseline after 8 to 12 weeks of therapy and then gradually recovered to reach a new steady state that was approximately 1.0 g/dl below baseline. This pattern was observed in patients regardless of whether they had received transfusions during therapy. In the randomized, placebo-controlled study, 60% of patients treated with Jakafi and 38% of patients receiving placebo received red blood cell transfusions during randomized treatment. Among transfused patients, the median number of units transfused per month was 1.2 in patients treated with Jakafi and 1.7 in placebo treated patients. Thrombocytopenia In the two Phase 3 clinical studies, in patients who developed Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia, the median time to onset was approximately 8 weeks. Thrombocytopenia was generally reversible with dose reduction or dose interruption. The median time to recovery of platelet counts above 50 X 10 9 /L was 14 days. Platelet transfusions were administered to 5% of patients receiving Jakafi and to 4% of patients receiving control regimens. Discontinuation of treatment because of thrombocytopenia occurred in <1% of patients receiving Jakafi and <1% of patients receiving control regimens. Patients with a platelet count of 100 X 10 9 /L to 200 X 10 9 /L before starting Jakafi had a higher frequency of Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia compared to patients with a platelet count greater than 200 X 10 9 /L (17% versus 7%). Neutropenia In the two Phase 3 clinical studies, 1% of patients reduced or stopped Jakafi because of neutropenia. Table 2 provides the frequency and severity of clinical hematology abnormalities reported for patients receiving treatment with Jakafi or placebo in the placebo-controlled study. Table 2: Myelofibrosis: Worst Hematology Laboratory Abnormalities in the Placebo-Controlled Study a Laboratory Parameter All Grades a All Grades b Jakafi (N=155) Grade 3 Jakafi (N=155) Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 4 All Grades All Grades Placebo (N=151) Grade 3 Placebo (N=151) Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 4 Thrombocytopenia 70 9 4 31 1 0 Anemia 96 34 11 87 16 3 Neutropenia 19 5 2 4 <1 1 a Presented values are worst Grade values regardless of baseline b National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, version 3.0 Additional Data from the Placebo-controlled Study 25% of patients treated with Jakafi and 7% of patients treated with placebo developed newly occurring or worsening Grade 1 abnormalities in alanine transaminase (ALT). The incidence of greater than or equal to Grade 2 elevations was 2% for Jakafi with 1% Grade 3 and no Grade 4 ALT elevations. 17% of patients treated with Jakafi and 6% of patients treated with placebo developed newly occurring or worsening Grade 1 abnormalities in aspartate transaminase (AST). The incidence of Grade 2 AST elevations was <1% for Jakafi with no Grade 3 or 4 AST elevations. 17% of patients treated with Jakafi and <1% of patients treated with placebo developed newly occurring or worsening Grade 1 elevations in cholesterol. The incidence of Grade 2 cholesterol elevations was <1% for Jakafi with no Grade 3 or 4 cholesterol elevations. Clinical Trial Experience in Polycythemia Vera In a randomized, open-label, active-controlled study, 110 patients with PV resistant to or intolerant of hydroxyurea received Jakafi and 111 patients received best available therapy [see Clinical Studies (14.2) in Full Prescribing Information]. The most frequent adverse drug reaction was anemia. Table 3 presents the most frequent non-hematologic treatment emergent adverse events occurring up to Week 32. Discontinuation for adverse events, regardless of causality, was observed in 4% of patients treated with Jakafi.

Table 3: Polycythemia Vera: Treatment Emergent Adverse Events Occurring in 6% of Patients on Jakafi in the Open-Label, Active-controlled Study up to Week 32 of Randomized Treatment Adverse Events All Grades a Grade 3-4 All Grades Grade 3-4 Headache 16 <1 19 <1 Abdominal Pain b 15 <1 15 <1 Diarrhea 15 0 7 <1 Dizziness c 15 0 13 0 Fatigue 15 0 15 3 Pruritus 14 <1 23 4 Dyspnea d 13 3 4 0 Muscle Spasms 12 <1 5 0 Nasopharyngitis 9 0 8 0 Constipation 8 0 3 0 Cough 8 0 5 0 Edema e 8 0 7 0 Arthralgia 7 0 6 <1 Asthenia 7 0 11 2 Epistaxis 6 0 3 0 Herpes Zoster f 6 <1 0 0 Nausea 6 0 4 0 a National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE), version 3.0 b includes abdominal pain, abdominal pain lower, and abdominal pain upper c includes dizziness and vertigo d includes dyspnea and dyspnea exertional e includes edema and peripheral edema f includes herpes zoster and post-herpetic neuralgia Other clinically important treatment emergent adverse events observed in less than 6% of patients treated with Jakafi were: Weight gain, hypertension, and urinary tract infections. Clinically relevant laboratory abnormalities are shown in Table 4. Table 4: Polycythemia Vera: Selected Laboratory Abnormalities in the Open-Label, Active-controlled Study up to Week 32 of Randomized Treatment a Laboratory Parameter Hematology All Grades b Jakafi (N=110) Jakafi (N=110) Grade 3 Grade 4 All Grades Best Available Therapy (N=111) Grade 3 Grade 4 Anemia 72 <1 <1 58 0 0 Thrombocytopenia 27 5 <1 24 3 <1 Neutropenia 3 0 <1 10 <1 0 Chemistry Hypercholesterolemia 35 0 0 8 0 0 Elevated ALT 25 <1 0 16 0 0 Elevated AST 23 0 0 23 <1 0 Hypertriglyceridemia 15 0 0 13 0 0 a Presented values are worst Grade values regardless of baseline b National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, version 3.0 Best Available Therapy (N=111) DRUG INTERACTIONS Fluconazole Concomitant administration of Jakafi with fluconazole doses greater than 200 mg daily may increase ruxolitinib exposure due to inhibition of both the CYP3A4 and CYP2C9 metabolic pathways [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) in Full Prescribing Information]. Increased exposure may increase the risk of exposure-related adverse reactions. Avoid the concomitant use of Jakafi with fluconazole doses of greater than 200 mg daily [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) in Full Prescribing Information]. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors Concomitant administration of Jakafi with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors increases ruxolitinib exposure [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) in Full Prescribing Information]. Increased exposure may increase the risk of exposure-related adverse reactions. Consider dose reduction when administering Jakafi with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) in Full Prescribing Information]. Strong CYP3A4 inducers Concomitant administration of Jakafi with strong CYP3A4 inducers may decrease ruxolitinib exposure [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) in Full Prescribing Information]. No dose adjustment is recommended; however, monitor patients frequently and adjust the Jakafi dose based on safety and efficacy [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) in Full Prescribing Information]. USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Pregnancy: Risk Summary When pregnant rats and rabbits were administered ruxolitinib during the period of organogenesis adverse developmental outcomes occurred at doses associated with maternal toxicity (see Data). There are no studies with the use of Jakafi in pregnant women to inform drug-associated risks. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. Adverse outcomes in pregnancy occur regardless of the health of the mother or the use of medications. The background risk in the U.S. general population of major birth defects is 2% to 4% and miscarriage is 15% to 20% of clinically recognized pregnancies. Data: Animal Data Ruxolitinib was administered orally to pregnant rats or rabbits during the period of organogenesis, at doses of 15, 30 or 60 mg/kg/day in rats and 10, 30 or 60 mg/kg/day in rabbits. There were no treatment-related malformations. Adverse developmental outcomes, such as decreases of approximately 9% in fetal weights were noted in rats at the highest and maternally toxic dose of 60 mg/kg/day. This dose results in an exposure (AUC) that is approximately 2 times the clinical exposure at the maximum recommended dose of 25 mg twice daily. In rabbits, lower fetal weights of approximately 8% and increased late resorptions were noted at the highest and maternally toxic dose of 60 mg/kg/day. This dose is approximately 7% the clinical exposure at the maximum recommended dose. In a pre- and post-natal development study in rats, pregnant animals were dosed with ruxolitinib from implantation through lactation at doses up to 30 mg/kg/day. There were no drug-related adverse findings in pups for fertility indices or for maternal or embryofetal survival, growth and development parameters at the highest dose evaluated (34% the clinical exposure at the maximum recommended dose of 25 mg twice daily). Lactation: Risk Summary No data are available regarding the presence of ruxolitinib in human milk, the effects on the breast fed infant, or the effects on milk production. Ruxolitinib and/or its metabolites were present in the milk of lactating rats (see Data). Because many drugs are present in human milk and because of the potential for thrombocytopenia and anemia shown for Jakafi in human studies, discontinue breastfeeding during treatment with Jakafi and for two weeks after the final dose. Data: Animal Data Lactating rats were administered a single dose of [ 14 C]-labeled ruxolitinib (30 mg/kg) on postnatal Day 10, after which plasma and milk samples were collected for up to 24 hours. The AUC for total radioactivity in milk was approximately 13-fold the maternal plasma AUC. Additional analysis showed the presence of ruxolitinib and several of its metabolites in milk, all at levels higher than those in maternal plasma. Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness of Jakafi in pediatric patients have not been established. Jakafi was evaluated in a single-arm, dose-escalation study (NCT01164163) in 27 pediatric patients with relapsed or refractory solid tumors (Cohort A) and 20 with leukemias or myeloproliferative neoplasms (Cohort B). The patients had a median age of 14 years (range, 2 to 21 years) and included 18 children (age 2 to < 12 years), and 14 adolescents (age 12 to <17 years). The dose levels tested were 15, 21, 29, 39, or 50 mg/m 2 twice daily in 28-day cycles with up to 6 patients per dose group. Overall, 38 (81%) patients were treated with no more than a single cycle of Jakafi, while 3, 1, 2, and 3 patients received 2, 3, 4, and 5 or more cycles, respectively. A protocol-defined maximal tolerated dose was not observed, but since few patients were treated for multiple cycles, tolerability with continued use was not assessed adequately to establish a recommended Phase 2 dose. The safety profile in children was similar to that seen in adults. Geriatric Use Of the total number of patients with MF in clinical studies with Jakafi, 52% were 65 years and older, while 15% were 75 years and older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness of Jakafi were observed between these patients and younger patients. Renal Impairment Reduce the Jakafi dosage when administering Jakafi to patients with MF and moderate (CLcr 30 ml/min to 59 ml/min as estimated using Cockcroft-Gault) or severe renal impairment (CLcr 15mL/min to 29 ml/min) with a platelet count between 50 X 10 9 /L and 150 X 10 9 /L [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) in Full Prescribing Information]. Reduce the Jakafi dosage for patients with PV and moderate (CLcr 30 to 59 ml/min) or severe renal impairment (CLcr 15 to 29 ml/min) [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) in Full Prescribing Information]. Reduce the Jakafi dosage for all patients with ESRD on dialysis [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) in Full Prescribing Information]. Hepatic Impairment Reduce the Jakafi dosage when administering Jakafi to patients with MF and any degree of hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A, B and C) and with a platelet count between 50 X 10 9 /L and 150 X 10 9 /L [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) in Full Prescribing Information]. Reduce the Jakafi dosage for patients with PV and hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A, B and C) [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) in Full Prescribing Information]. OVERDOSAGE There is no known antidote for overdoses with Jakafi. Single doses up to 200 mg have been given with acceptable acute tolerability. Higher than recommended repeat doses are associated with increased myelosuppression including leukopenia, anemia and thrombocytopenia. Appropriate supportive treatment should be given. Hemodialysis is not expected to enhance the elimination of Jakafi. Jakafi is a registered trademark of Incyte. All rights reserved. U.S. Patent Nos. 7598257; 8415362; 8722693; 8822481; 8829013; 9079912 2011-2018 Incyte Corporation. All rights reserved. Revised: December 2017 RUX-2429

SPECIAL MEETING REVIEW EDITION Results From the 208-Week (4-Year) Follow-Up of the RESPONSE Trial, a Phase 3 Study Comparing Ruxolitinib With Best Available Therapy for the Treatment of Polycythemia Vera The global, multicenter, openlabel, phase 3 RESPONSE trial (Randomized Study of Efficacy and Safety in Polycythemia Vera With JAK Inhibitor INCB018424 Versus Best Supportive Care) established the efficacy and safety of the Janus kinase (JAK) 1/2 inhibitor ruxolitinib in patients with polycythemia vera who are resistant or intolerant to hydroxyurea. 1 At the 2017 American Society of Hematology (ASH) meeting, investigators presented updated findings that confirmed the long-term safety and efficacy of ruxolitinib in this population. 2 The definition of resistance or intolerance to hydroxyurea was based on the European LeukemiaNet criteria. Other enrollment requirements included a need for phlebotomy for hematocrit control, a spleen volume of 450 cm 3 or more as assessed by magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography, and no prior JAK inhibitor treatment. 1 Patients who had a hematocrit below 40% or above 45% underwent a 28-day prerandomization hematocrit control period. A total of 222 patients were randomly assigned 1:1 to ruxolitinib starting at 10 mg twice daily (n=110) or to a standard therapy (n=112), which consisted of any single agent considered by the treating physician to be the best available therapy. In the ruxolitinib arm, patients could receive dose increases in order to achieve and maintain a hematocrit above 45% without phlebotomy, to reduce spleen size, and to normalize counts of white blood cells and platelets. 1 Patients in the standard-therapy arm could cross over to the ruxolitinib arm at week 32 if they had not met the primary endpoint, or at a later time if they became eligible for phlebotomy and/or developed splenomegaly progression. 1,2 By week 80 (1.5 years), no patients remained in the control arm. Patients ABSTRACT SUMMARY Hydroxycarbamide Plus Aspirin Vs Aspirin Alone in Intermediate Risk Essential Thrombocythemia: Results of the PT-1 International, Prospective, Randomized Clinical Trial The open-label, randomized PT-1 trial (Primary Thrombocythaemia 1) compared the efficacy and safety of hydroxyurea plus aspirin vs aspirin alone in patients with intermediate-risk essential thrombocythemia (Abstract 319). The study randomly assigned patients to hydroxyurea plus aspirin (n=182), with a target platelet count of 200 10 9 /L to 400 10 9 /L, or to aspirin alone (n=176). The primary composite endpoint was the proportion of patients with arterial or venous thrombosis, serious hemorrhage, or death from vascular causes. In each arm, 11 events occurred, for an incidence of 0.9 vascular events per 100 patient-years. Platelet counts, hemoglobin levels, and white blood cell counts were significantly higher in the control arm than the hydroxyurea arm for the first 5 to 6 years of the study, after which the confidence intervals began to overlap in line with treatment changes. There were no significant differences in any AEs between study arms or any differences in patient-reported quality-of-life. The investigators concluded that aspirin alone is appropriate for these patients, until they develop another indication that requires cytoreduction. receiving ruxolitinib continued in an extended treatment phase. At the time of the analysis, all patients had at least 4 years of follow-up. The study is ongoing, with 37% of patients in the ruxolitinib arm and 38% of crossover patients receiving ruxolitinib at the time of the analysis. The treatment was completed as per protocol in approximately 30% of patients. 2 The most common reasons for treat ment discontinuation in the ruxolitinib arm were adverse events (AEs; 14%) and disease progression (11%). In the standard-therapy arm, 89% of discontinuations were attributed to lack of efficacy. The median treatment exposure was 225 weeks in the ruxolitinib arm, 189 weeks in the ruxolitinib crossover group, and 34 weeks in the standard-therapy arm. 1 In the initial report from the RESPONSE trial, ruxolitinib demonstrated a significant improvement in the primary endpoint a composite of hematocrit control through week 32 and at least a 35% reduction in spleen volume at week 32 over best available therapy. This endpoint was attained by 21% vs 1% of patients, respectively (P<.001). 1 At the 2017 ASH meeting, Dr Jean Jacques Kiladjian presented results of a preplanned analysis from the RESPONSE trial assessing the long-term safety and efficacy of ruxolitinib after a follow-up period of 4 years. 2 Among the 25 patients in the ruxolitinib arm with a primary response to treatment, 6 had developed disease progression. A Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a 73% probability that patients would maintain their primary response for 4 years (Figure 1), including a 73% probability of maintaining hematocrit control and an 86% probability of maintaining spleen response. The median duration of the primary response was not reached. 6 Clinical Advances in Hematology & Oncology Volume 16, Issue 2, Supplement 4 February 2018

HIGHLIGHTS IN MYELOPROLIFERATIVE NEOPLASMS FROM THE 2017 ASH MEETING 100 Probability 80 60 40 20 Responders, n=25; events, n=6; censored, n=19 Kaplan-Meier median: Not reached + Censoring times Ruxolitinib 0 * * * * 0 12 24 36 48 60 72 84 96 108 120 132 144 156 168 180 192 204 216 228 6 18 30 42 54 66 78 90 102 114 126 138 150 162 174 186 198 210 222 Duration of Response (weeks) At Risk 25 25 25 25 25 25 24 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 21 21 21 20 20 20 20 19 19 19 18 18 18 17 17 17 14 14 13 12 12 8 8 7 0 Events 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 Figure 1. The durability of primary response among patients treated with ruxolitinib in the RESPONSE trial. Adapted from Kiladjian JJ et al. ASH abstract 322. Blood. 2017;130(suppl 1). 2 100 Probability 80 60 40 20 0 Responders, n=26; n=events, 10; n=censored, 16 Kaplan-Meier median: N/A week * * * * Duration of Response (weeks) + Censoring times Ruxolitinib 0 12 24 36 48 60 72 84 96 108 120 132 144 156 168 180 192 204 216 228 240 6 18 30 42 54 66 78 90 102 114 126 138 150 162 174 186 198 210 222 234 246 At Risk 26 24 24 24 24 24 24 21 21 18 18 17 17 16 16 16 16 16 1515 15 15 14 13 13 13 13 1313 12 10 10 9 9 9 7 7 6 5 3 0 Events 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 6 6 6 6 7 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 9 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 Figure 2. The durability of complete hematologic remission among patients treated with ruxolitinib in the RESPONSE trial. Adapted from Kiladjian JJ et al. ASH abstract 322. Blood. 2017;130(suppl 1). 2 The median duration of complete hematologic remission (defined as hematocrit control, platelet count 400 10 9 /L, and white blood cell count 10 10 9 /L) also was not reached after 4 years, with 54% of patients remaining in a complete hematologic response (Figure 2). Among these patients, 48% had a leukocyte response and 48% maintained their platelet count. Responses were also durable when assessed by clinicohematologic parameters. Among the 70 patients (63.6%) with an overall clinicohematologic response at week 32, 49 remained without progression after 4 years. An estimated 67% of patients maintained a clinicohematologic response at 4 years. The median response duration was not reached. In an intent-to-treat analysis of overall survival (OS) not accounting for crossover, the estimated 5-year OS rate was 90.6% with ruxolitinib vs 87.7% with standard therapy. Dr Kiladjian noted that these outcomes were more favorable than would be expected based on prior data for patients with resistance or intolerance to hydroxyurea. A safety analysis showed similar toxicity rates in the ruxolitinib arm vs the crossover population. Hematologic Clinical Advances in Hematology & Oncology Volume 16, Issue 2, Supplement 4 February 2018 7

SPECIAL MEETING REVIEW EDITION AEs did not appear to worsen with continued ruxolitinib, and there was a suggestion of some improvement in hematologic parameters with extended ruxolitinib exposure. Anemia of any grade was reported in 9% per 100 patient-years in each group at 4 years, with a reduction from 13% per 100 patient-years in the ruxolitinib arm and 14.9% per 100 patient-years in the crossover group at 1.5 years. At 4 years, thrombocytopenia was reported at a rate of 4.6% per 100 patient-years in the ruxolitinib arm and 1.3% per 100 patient-years in the crossover arm, down from 6.1% and 2.7% per 100 patient-years, respectively, at 1.5 years. Rates of nonhematologic AEs also appeared to decline somewhat during the study. The most common nonhematologic AE was infection, reported in approximately 20% per 100 patientyears among the ruxolitinib cohort at 4 years. At 1.5 years, this rate was 28% to 29% per 100 patient-years. Rates of herpes zoster infection were approximately 5% per 100 patient-years at 4 years. Rates of thromboembolic AEs were low in both arms at 4 years, at 1.2% per 100 patient-years in the ruxolitinib arm and 2.9% per 100 patient-years in the crossover arm, compared with 1.8% and 4.1% per 100 patient-years, respectively, at 1.5 years. Dr Kiladjian noted that few thromboembolic events occurred between 1.5 years and 4 years. ABSTRACT SUMMARY A Two-Part Study of Givinostat in Patients With Polycythemia Vera: The Maximum Tolerated Dose Selection and the Proof of Concept Final Results A phase 1b/2 study evaluated givinostat, an investigational oral histone deacetylase inhibitor, in patients with uncontrolled polycythemia vera (Abstract 253). The phase 1 portion of the study, conducted in 12 patients with JAK2 V617F positive polycythemia vera, established 100 mg twice daily as the maximum tolerated dose. The phase 2 study enrolled 35 patients (mean age, 58 years; range, 39-80 years). Previous treatments included aspirin in 74% and hydroxyurea in 46%. Nearly half of patients (45%) had high-risk polycythemia vera (meaning they were 60 years and/or had previous thrombosis). Hypertension (controlled by treatment) was reported in 40%. Among 31 evaluable patients, givinostat was associated with an ORR of 81% after 3 months and 83% at 6 months (as assessed by European LeukemiaNet response criteria). Grade 3 diarrhea occurred in 11% of patients, and 9% developed grade 3 hematologic AEs. No grade 4 or 5 AEs occurred. A pivotal trial is planned to further evaluate the efficacy and safety of givinostat for this indication. Rates of progression were low among ruxolitinib-treated patients, with less than 1% of patients diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and 2% diagnosed with myelofibrosis by 4 years. Rates of other secondary malignancies were less than 1%, with the exception of nonmelanoma skin cancer, which occurred at a rate of 3.6% per 100 patient-years among patients in the ruxolitinib arm without a history of nonmelanoma skin cancer and a rate of 18.6% per 100 patientyears among those with a history of this disease. Since the analysis performed at week 80, an additional death occurred that was considered to be treatmentrelated: a patient in the ruxolitinib arm died from adenocarcinoma. References 1. Vannucchi AM, Kiladjian JJ, Griesshammer M, et al. Ruxolitinib versus standard therapy for the treatment of polycythemia vera. N Engl J Med. 2015;372(5): 426-435. 2. Kiladjian JJ, Verstovsek S, Griesshammer M, et al. Results from the 208-week (4-year) follow-up of RESPONSE trial, a phase 3 study comparing ruxolitinib (rux) with best available therapy (BAT) for the treatment of polycythemia vera (PV) [ASH abstract 322]. Blood. 2017;130(suppl 1). Ropeginterferon Alfa-2b Induces High Rates of Clinical, Hematological and Molecular Responses in Polycythemia Vera: Two- Year Results From the First Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial Interferon is known to consistently induce high rates of hematologic response, phlebotomy independence, and improvement of symptoms in patients with polycythemia vera. 1 Moreover, interferons appear to induce sustained reduction of mutant JAK2 alleles, suggesting the possibility that the disease can be modified by targeting specific malignant clones. 2 Newer formulations of interferon have improved the convenience of administration. Ropeginterferon alfa- 2b is a novel mono-pegylated interferon that is administered once every 2 weeks (once monthly in the long-term maintenance setting) using a prefilled, dose-adjustable pen that allows for self-administration. Several clinical trials have recently been conducted evaluating the efficacy and safety of 8 Clinical Advances in Hematology & Oncology Volume 16, Issue 2, Supplement 4 February 2018

HIGHLIGHTS IN MYELOPROLIFERATIVE NEOPLASMS FROM THE 2017 ASH MEETING ropeginterferon in patients with polycythemia vera. The open-label, multicenter, phase 2 PEGINVERA study (Safety Study of Pegylated Interferon Alpha 2b to Treat Polycythemia Vera) demonstrated the long-term efficacy and safety of ropeg interferon alfa-2b administered once monthly as maintenance treatment in patients with polycythemia vera. 3 The randomized, phase 3 PROUD-PV study (Pegylated Interferon Alpha-2b Versus Hydroxyurea in Polycythemia Vera) was the first to compare interferon against hydroxyurea and demonstrated the noninferiority of ropeginterferon alfa- 2b vs hydroxyurea at 12 months (as assessed by the complete hematologic response rate). 4 At the 2017 ASH meeting, Dr Heinz Gisslinger presented results from a continuation of the PROUD- PV trial, called CONTINUATION- PV, which evaluated the efficacy and safety of ropeginterferon after a median treatment duration of 2.7 years, allowing for 2-year efficacy analyses and safety data for up to 3.6 years of treatment. 5 The PROUD-PV/ CONTINUATION-PV trial enrolled 254 patients with polycythemia vera in need of cytoreduction. Patients could be treatment-naive or pretreated with hydroxyurea. (Those who had received hydroxyurea were not resistant to it.) Patients were stratified based on age, use of previous hydroxyurea, and prior thrombotic events. They were randomly assigned to 12 months of ropeginterferon or hydroxyurea. After 12 months, patients could roll over to the CONTINUATION-PV study. Patients in the control arm could switch to their physician s choice of best available therapy, but crossover to ropeginterferon was not allowed. The CONTINUATION-PV study enrolled 171 patients, with 95 in the ropeginterferon arm and 76 in the control arm. 5 In both arms, the median duration of disease was 1.2 months. Splenomegaly was reported in 7.4% of Responders 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 21 18 70 39 69 45 3 6 9 12 15 18 21 24 75 62 66 Duration of Treatment (months) 72 69 71 61 62 52 49 AOP2014 Control AOP2014 (statistically significant RR) Control (statistically significant RR) RR, 0.84 RR, 0.56 RR, 0.65 RR, 0.85 RR, 0.93 RR, 0.89 RR, 1.37 RR, 1.42 Figure 3. Complete hematologic response at 24 months among patients treated with ropeginterferon alfa-2b (AOP2014) or hydroxyurea (control) in the CONTINUATION- PV trial. RR, relative risk. Adapted from Gisslinger H et al. ASH abstract 320. Blood. 2017;130(suppl 1). 5 patients in the ropeginterferon arm and 10.5% of patients in the control arm. Disease-related symptoms were present in 15.8% vs 22.4%, respectively. Investigators reported no selection bias based on baseline parameters between the PROUD-PV cohort and the subset of patients enrolled in CONTINUATION-PV. Outcomes at 24 months supported the efficacy of ropeginterferon alfa-2b in this population. 5 The proportion of patients attaining a complete hematologic response defined as a hematocrit less than 45% without phlebotomy, a platelet count less than 400 10 9 /L, and a white blood cell count less than 10 10 9 /L was significantly higher in the ropeginterferon arm vs the control arm (70.5% vs 49.3%; P=.0101; Figure 3). There was no significant difference between ropeg interferon and the control treatment in the proportion of patients attaining a complete hematologic response and improvement in disease burden at 24 months (49.5% vs 36.6%; P=.1183). Among patients treated with ropeginterferon, the partial molecular response rate at 24 months was significantly higher, at 68.1% vs 34.7% (P=.0002). Hematologic, clinical, and molecular response rates increased between months 12 and 24 in the ropeginterferon arm, but decreased over the same period in the control arm. After a median treatment duration of 2.7 years, the safety analysis showed similar outcomes to those previously reported. Approximately 90% of patients in each arm developed an AE. The rate of treatment-related AEs was 70.1% in the ropeginterferon arm and 77.2% in the control arm. Grade 3 or higher AEs occurred in 27.6% vs 26.0%. The most common treatmentrelated AEs were thrombocytopenia, reported in 19.7% of patients in the ropeginterferon arm vs 26.8% of patients in the control arm, leukopenia (18.9% vs 22.0%), anemia (9.4% vs 22.0%; P=.0091), and increased gamma-glutamyltransferase (11.0% vs 0%; P<.0001). Endocrine disorders occurred in 3.9% of patients in the ropeginterferon arm and 0.8% of those in the control arm. Psychiatric disorders occurred in 2.4% and 0.8% of patients, respectively. Cardiac/vascular disorders developed in 10.2% vs 5.5% of patients. Tissue disorders (rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren s syndrome) occurred Clinical Advances in Hematology & Oncology Volume 16, Issue 2, Supplement 4 February 2018 9

SPECIAL MEETING REVIEW EDITION ABSTRACT SUMMARY Open Label, Phase I Study of Single Agent Oral RG7388 (Idasanutlin) in Patients With Polycythemia Vera and Essential Thrombocythemia Idasanutlin is a novel antagonist of MDM2, a negative regulator of p53. At the 2017 ASH meeting, Dr John Mascarenhas presented results of a phase 1 study evaluating idasanutlin in patients with JAK2 V617F positive polycythemia vera or essential thrombocythemia resistant or intolerant to hydroxyurea and/or interferon (Abstract 254). Patients without a partial response or better after cycle 6 were eligible to receive peginterferon in addition to idasanutlin. Among the 12 patients enrolled, 11 had polycythemia vera and 1 had essential thrombocythemia. The median age was 63.5 years (range, 32-83 years), the median duration of disease was 43.9 months, and 10 patients had received prior hydroxyurea. Idasanutlin was well-tolerated, with no dose-limiting toxicities. No hematologic AEs were reported. Three patients developed grade 3 nonhematologic AEs. Gastrointestinal toxicity occurred and was generally manageable. Idasanutlin was associated with an ORR of 58% (7 of 12) as monotherapy and 50% (2 of 4) in combination with peginterferon. Improvements in symptoms and bone marrow responses were also noted. Idasanutlin is being evaluated in a global, single-arm, phase 2 trial in patients with polycythemia vera with hydroxyurea resistance or intolerance. in 1.6% of patients in the ropeginterferon arm and no patients in the control arm. Secondary malignancies in the ropeginterferon arm included 1 case each of spermatocytic seminoma, adrenal neoplasm, and glioblastoma, which were not considered related to treatment. Secondary malignancies in the control arm included 2 cases of acute leukemia, 2 cases of basal cell carcinoma, and 1 case of malignant melanoma. In vitro analyses of the JAK2 allelic burden over time suggested that interferon provided a sustained targeting of JAK2 that was observable 2 years of treatment. Non-JAK2 mutations also appeared to be affected by interferon, with the allelic burden decreasing substantially throughout 24 months in the ropeginterferon arm, but increasing over time in the control arm. References 1. Hasselbalch H. Interferon in myelofibrosis. Lancet. 1988;1(8581):355. 2. Kiladjian JJ, Mesa RA, Hoffman R. The renaissance of interferon therapy for the treatment of myeloid malignancies. Blood. 2011;117(18):4706-4715. 3. Buxhofer-Ausch V, Grohmann-Izay B, Thaler J, et al. Successful long-term maintenance of PV patients with a monthly schedule of ropeginterferon alfa-2b an update from the PEGINVERA study [EHA abstract P707]. Haematologica. 2017;102(suppl 2). 4. Gisslinger H, Klade C, Georgiev P, et al. Final results from PROUD-PV a randomized controlled phase 3 trial comparing ropeginterferon alfa-2b to hydroxyurea in polycythemia vera patients. Blood. 2016;128 (suppl 22). 5. Gisslinger H, Kalde C, Georgiev P, et al. Ropeginterferon alfa-2b induces high rates of clinical, hematological and molecular responses in polycythemia vera: two-year results from the first prospective randomized controlled trial [ASH abstract 320]. Blood. 2017;130(suppl 1). Characteristics and Survival of Patients With Chronic Phase Myelofibrosis and Elevated Blasts (5-9%), and the Effect of Therapy With the JAK2 Inhibitor Ruxolitinib The JAK2 inhibitor ruxolitinib has improved survival in patients with chronic-phase myelofibrosis who have less than 10% blasts in the bone marrow. Characteristics and outcomes for chronic-phase patients with a blast count from 5% to 9% have not been defined. To assess disease characteristics, survival, and the efficacy of ruxolitinib in this subgroup, Dr Lucia Masarova and colleagues conducted a retrospective review of patients treated for myelofibrosis at the MD Anderson Cancer Center between 1984 and 2015. 1 The cohort included 832 patients with primary myelofibrosis (69%), 169 patients with post essential thrombocythemia myelofibrosis (14%), and 198 patients with post polycythemia vera myelofibrosis (17%). Sixty-three percent of patients were newly diagnosed. Most patients (85%) had less than 5% blasts in the peripheral blood or bone marrow. A range of 5% to 9% blasts was reported in 10% of patients, and 5% of patients had a range of 10% to 19% (indicating acceleratedphase myelofibrosis). Patients with chronic-phase myelofibrosis and 5% to 9% blasts shared more clinical characteristics with patients who had accelerated-phase myelofibrosis than with those who had chronic-phase myelofibrosis and less than 5% blasts. For example, median hemoglobin levels were 11.5 g/dl in patients with chronic-phase myelofibrosis with less than 5% blasts, 10 g/dl in patients 10 Clinical Advances in Hematology & Oncology Volume 16, Issue 2, Supplement 4 February 2018