Francisco-Javier Peñalver

Dr. Francisco-Javier Peñalver


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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14 October 2025 in Blood Advances
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
AGAntonio Gutierrez
Antonio Gutierrez
IZIzaskun Zeberio
Izaskun Zeberio
FPFrancisco-Javier Peñalver
Francisco-Javier Peñalver
PMPilar Martinez-Barranco
Pilar Martinez-Barranco
SPSandra Perez
Sandra Perez
EBEVA MARIA GONZALEZ BARCA
EVA MARIA GONZALEZ BARCA
Relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (R/R DLBCL) remains challenging to treat, especially in patients ineligible for intensive therapy or chimeric antigen receptor T cells. Tafasitamab plus lenalidomide (T/L) is an effective option based on the phase 2 L-MIND trial findings, although real-world evidence studies have not consistently confirmed these results. We aimed to describe real-world outcomes of R/R DLBCL treated with T/L in Spain. A total of 99 patients received at least 1 dose of tafasitamab (intent-to-treat [ITT] cohort), with 83 completing at least 1 full cycle of T/L (efficacy cohort). Respectively for ITT and efficacy cohorts, at a median follow-up of 19.2 and 21.6 months, the overall response rate was 51% and 61% (complete response [CR], 35% and 42%). Median duration of response was not reached, and patients achieving a CR had excellent outcomes. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 4.9 and 10.9 months, and overall survival (OS) was 12.2 and 21.8 months, respectively for both ITT and efficacy cohorts. Neither age nor cumulative illness rating score influenced survival. Better PFS was obtained in first/second relapse but only poor Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 2 to 4, double-hit lymphoma, and those with refractory/progressing disease after the previous therapy, were independently associated with worse PFS. Treatment was generally well tolerated, with manageable toxicity. Relative dose intensity of lenalidomide significantly affected response, PFS, and OS. In summary, T/L is both well tolerated and effective, irrespective of age or comorbidities. Our findings provide valuable insights into the real-world application of T/L and reinforce its role as a key treatment option for patients with R/R DLBCL.

27 January 2026 in Cancers
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
FPFrancisco-Javier Peñalver
Francisco-Javier Peñalver
LMLaura Magnano
Laura Magnano
SASara Alonso-Álvarez
Sara Alonso-Álvarez
AUAna Jiménez Ubieto
Ana Jiménez Ubieto
ALArmando López-Guillermo
Armando López-Guillermo
JSJuan-Manuel Sancho
Juan-Manuel Sancho
Background: Follicular lymphoma (FL) is the second most common B-cell lymphoma in Western countries, typically presenting as an indolent disease with prolonged overall survival. Despite favorable initial responses to therapy, most patients experience relapse, and early progression is associated with poor outcomes. Methods: This guideline provides evidence-based recommendations from the Spanish GELTAMO group on the diagnosis, staging, treatment, and follow-up of FL. A systematic literature review was conducted, and recommendations were graded according to the GRADE system. Results: Histopathological diagnosis should be based on excisional biopsy. PET-CT is recommended for staging and response evaluation. For localized disease, involved-site radiotherapy (ISRT) remains the treatment of choice. In asymptomatic patients with advanced-stage disease and low tumor burden, a watch-and-wait approach is appropriate, although rituximab monotherapy is also acceptable. For advanced-stage disease with high tumor burden, immunochemotherapy with anti-CD20 antibodies (rituximab or obinutuzumab) combined with CHOP, CVP, or bendamustine is recommended, followed by maintenance therapy. Management of relapsed disease is tailored based on tumor burden, treatment history, and timing of relapse. Although novel immunotherapies (CAR-T therapy and bispecific antibodies) are emerging as promising options, autologous stem cell therapies may still be a valid option in young patients with early relapse who are sensitive to immunochemotherapy. Conclusions: FL is a heterogeneous disease requiring individualized management strategies. Recent advances in immunotherapy and molecular diagnostics are reshaping the therapeutic landscape. These updated GELTAMO recommendations aim to provide practical guidance for optimal FL management in clinical practice.

16 June 2026 in Cancers
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
FPFrancisco-Javier Peñalver
Francisco-Javier Peñalver
LMLaura Magnano
Laura Magnano
SASara Alonso-Álvarez
Sara Alonso-Álvarez
AUAna Jiménez Ubieto
Ana Jiménez Ubieto
ALArmando López-Guillermo
Armando López-Guillermo
JSJuan-Manuel Sancho
Juan-Manuel Sancho
The authors would like to make the following corrections to this published paper