Brentuximab vedotin in the treatment of children and adolescents with refractory and relapsed Hodgkin's lymphoma

Abstract

Children and adolescents with refractory or relapsed Hodgkin's lymphoma (R-R HL) have unfavorable prognosis if ≥ 3 lines of therapies have to be used. New strategies based on innovative approaches are crucial for this group of patients. Nowadays immunotherapy for oncological diseases is the most promising and actively developing area. Brentuximab vedotin (BV) is efficient in adults with HL. Data in children are limited to pilot studies that are focused on response to treatment without analysis of survival. The present study demonstrates experience of Raisa Gorbacheva Memorial Institute of Children Oncology, Hematology and Transplantation (First Pavlov State Medical University of Saint-Petersburg) in the management of heavily pretreated (median number of prior lines – 4) children and adolescents with R-R HL. The study was approved by the Independent Ethics Committee of the Raisa Gorbacheva Memorial Research Institute of Children's Oncology, Hematology and Transplantation. Brentuximab vedotin was administered to 34 patients. Overall response was achieved in 71% (complete response – 29%, partial response – 42%). Long-term progression free and overall survival were 24 and 54%, respectively.