In a nutshell
This study looked at the safety and effectiveness of pembrolizumab (Keytruda) in the treatment of patients with relapsed or unresponsive Hodgkin lymphoma after stem cell transplant. Researchers found that pembrolizumab was a safe and effective treatment when used in this way.
Some background
Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer of the immune system. Some patients do not respond to standard treatments or relapse. These patients are often treated with a stem cell transplant (SCT). However, there are still some patients who do not respond well to this treatment. Pembrolizumab is a drug which targets certain proteins on cancer cells to kill them. This may work in these patients after a SCT. It is important to research the safety and effectiveness of this treatment.
Methods & findings
30 patients with relapsed or unresponsive HL were included in this study. Pembrolizumab was given every 3 weeks for 8 cycles after SCT.
Overall survival after 18 months was seen in 100% of patients. Survival without signs of disease after 18 months was seen in 82% of patients. 24 (80%) patients experienced a side effect. These included lung infection, cough or shortness of breath.
The bottom line
The study concluded that pembrolizumab is a safe and effective treatment in patients with relapsed or unresponsive Hodgkin lymphoma after stem cell transplant.
The fine print
This study had a small sample size. Larger studies are needed to confirm these results.
What’s next?
Talk to your doctor about using pembrolizumab as part of your treatment.
Published By :
Blood
Date :
Apr 05, 2019
