Venetoclax Combined with Azacytidine Can Be a First-line Treatment Option for Elderly Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm

An 84-year-old Japanese man was diagnosed with blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN). We administered combination therapy using venetoclax and azacytidine. We observed neutropenia (Grade 4), thrombocytopenia (Grade 2), and stomatitis (Grade 3). After six cycles of treatment, the BPDCN abnormal cells in the bone marrow specimen almost disappeared, and atypical cells were not detected in a skin biopsy. We propose venetoclax combined with azacytidine as a useful treatment approach in elderly patients, al-though clinicians should be mindful that therapeutic modifications may be essential to minimize and/or avoid adverse events.

Automated summary

An 84-year-old Japanese man with BPDCN was treated with a combination of venetoclax and azacytidine. Despite experiencing adverse events like neutropenia (Grade 4), thrombocytopenia (Grade 2), and stomatitis (Grade 3), significant improvements were observed after six cycles of treatment. Venetoclax combined with azacytidine is suggested as a useful treatment approach in elderly patients, with careful monitoring and potential modifications to minimize adverse events.