Although the study clearly showed statistically significant differences, discussant Charles E. Geyer, Jr, MD, FACP, Associate Director of Clinical Research at the Massey Cancer Center in Richmond, Virginia, indicated that it’s unclear whether these are “clinically relevant differences,” adding that, overall, there were more similarities than differences between the geriatric and younger populations.

“The most interesting data for me were the high percentage of PD-1 and PD-L1 markers in staining,” said Dr. Geyer. “I think these are much higher numbers than what we’ve seen reported, particularly in the hormone receptor–positive/HER2-negative patients.”

“I would differ with Dr. Pohlmann’s conclusions that the study provides relevant information for the design of clinical trials focusing on geriatric patient population,” Dr. Geyer remarked. “Rather, the data suggest the focus needs to be on inclusion of geriatric patients in our targeted therapy trials. I think it would be a mistake to peel these patients off and attempt to evaluate them in separate studies.” ■

Disclosure: Dr. Geyer reported no potential conflicts of interest.