Ibrutinib

First-generation BTK inhibitor

Response rate
90% ORR; 73% MRR (previously treated)
Onset
Weeks (median 4 weeks to minor response)
Route
Oral 420mg daily
Line
1st
IgM effect
Significant reduction

Evidence summary

First BTK inhibitor approved for WM. Directly targets MYD88-BTK-NF-kB axis. Response depends on genotype: MYD88mut/CXCR4wt patients achieve 100% ORR, while CXCR4-mutated and MYD88-WT patients have lower responses. Notable side effects include atrial fibrillation, hypertension, and bleeding. Also uniquely relevant in Schnitzler syndrome where it targets both inflammation and IgM.

Molecular targets (2)

MoleculeRoleExpressionEvidence
MYD88Central oncogenic driver (TLR/IL-1R adaptor)L265P gain-of-function in >90%established
BTK (Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase)Key signaling kinase downstream of MYD88Constitutively activatedestablished