Frequency-adjusted daratumumab-based regimen versus bortezomib/dexamethasone in newly diagnosed AL amyloidosis: a matched-cohort study.

BACKGROUND

The optimal dosing schedule for daratumumab (Dara) in newly diagnosed systemic light-chain (AL) amyloidosis requires refinement. This real-world study compared the efficacy and safety of a frequency-adjusted, cyclophosphamide-free Dara-based regimen with bortezomib/dexamethasone (BD).

METHODS

We included newly diagnosed AL amyloidosis patients treated between January 2018 and December 2024, with follow-up data censored in August 2025. Using 1:1 propensity score matching based on age, cardiac stage, dFLC, and organ function, we compared hematologic/organ responses and survival. Survival was analyzed with Kaplan-Meier and log-rank tests. The Dara-based group received a cyclophosphamide-free regimen with an adjusted schedule (biweekly in cycle 1, then monthly) and a response-guided treatment duration.

RESULTS

A total of 105 patients were included. After propensity score matching, 60 patients (30 per group) were selected for comparative analysis. The Dara-based group achieved significantly higher hematologic complete response (CR) rates at 6 months (57% vs. 27%, p = 0.018) and 12 months (63% vs. 27%, p = 0.002), with a markedly shorter median time to CR (61 vs. 120 days, p = 0.010). Organ responses were also superior: cardiac response 52% vs. 24% (p = 0.037) and renal response 56% vs. 27% (p = 0.037). No significant survival difference was observed during follow-up, and the safety profile was comparable between groups.

CONCLUSION

A frequency-adjusted Dara-based regimen induces significantly faster and deeper hematologic and organ responses compared to BD in newly diagnosed AL amyloidosis which offers a promising personalized approach to reduce treatment burden and adverse events while maintaining high efficacy, supporting its integration into clinical practice for a broader patient population.