A review of the side-effects of Nivolumab (Opdivo) treatment for Hodgkin Lymphoma.

This paper summarised the side effects associated with the use of nivolumab (Opdivo) for the treatment of Hodgkin Lymphoma. The main finding was that patients treated with nivolumab may experience immune-related side effects.

Brentuximab vedotin (Adcetris) and stem cell transplant are often used to treat classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL).Brentuximab vedotin is an anti-cancer drug. Stem cell transplant involves the transfer of stem cells. Many patients with cHL respond well to treatment. However, some lose response over time (refractory). Others do not respond to treatment at all (relapsed). Nivolumab is a targeted anti-cancer drug. This means that it specifically kills tumour cells. Nivolumab is becoming commonly used for the treatment of relapsed/refractory (R/R) cHL. While nivolumab is effective, it important to monitor the side effects of treatment with this drug. 

This study summarised the side-effects associated with the treatment of nivolumab for R/R cHL. Side effects associated with nivolumab therapy in patients who previously received at least 3 different treatments were monitored. Some patients had received treatment with brentuximab vedotin. Others had received stem cell transplant.

As nivolumab acts by causing the body to attack tumour cells, many patients experience side effects related to the body’s response. It has been found that a number of the body’s systems can be affected by nivolumab treatment. These may include the skin, the digestive system, the liver and the hormone system. Lung problems are a major cause of nivolumab-associated death. It was found that early diagnosis and treatment of nivolumab-associated side-effects results in better management.

The main finding was that it is important to monitor the side-effects associated with nivolumab treatment in order to diagnose and treat these side-effects effectively.  

As nivolumab was only marketed in 2016, the long-term effects associated with its use are not yet fully known.

If you have questions about the management of Hodgkin Lymphoma, please consult a doctor.