Jerina Hoxha
12.6.25
Registry study confirms cilta-cel’s superior outcomes in real-world multiple myeloma treatment
New results from a nationwide German registry study provide valuable real-world evidence comparing two approved CAR T cell therapies, cilta-cel and ide-cel, in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). Supported by the CERTAINTY consortium, the analysis highlights remission conversion as a key factor driving outcomes.
Background
CAR T cell therapies targeting BCMA, such as ide-cel and cilta-cel, have shown promising results in clinical trials. However, their performance in routine clinical settings had not yet been compared in large-scale, real-world analyses. This registry study, covering 343 patients treated across Germany, aimed to fill that gap.
Key findings
Patients treated with cilta-cel had higher response rates (94% vs. 82%), complete response rates (61% vs. 39%), and progression-free survival (PFS) at 10 months (76% vs. 47%) than those treated with ide-cel.
Cilta-cel was more likely to convert suboptimal pre-treatment responses into complete remissions.
Adverse events such as cytokine release syndrome and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity were more frequent and severe with cilta-cel, though non-relapse mortality was comparable between the two therapies.
Conclusion
Cilta-cel offers deeper and more durable responses in real-world settings, but with increased toxicity and longer manufacturing times. These findings underscore the importance of individualised CAR T cell selection and bridging strategies to optimise both safety and effectiveness.
Access the Publication
Read the full publication in Blood: https://doi.org/10.1182/blood.2025028330