Use of targeted therapy for refractory ALK-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma as a bridging strategy prior to allogeneic transplantation

摘要

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) that is refractory following salvage therapy has a poor prognosis. Crizotinib is an ALK-specific tyrosine kinase inhibitor that was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of lung cancer associated with ALK gene rearrangements. Impressive response rates were reported using Crizotinib in lung cancer patients with ALK gene rearrangements as well as patients with ALK-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma [1-3]. Brentuximab Vedotin (SGN-35) is a CD-30 specific monoclonal antibody attached to the antitubulin agent monomethyl auristatin E. Brentuximab is FDA approved for the treatment of relapsed or refractory Hodgkin's lymphoma and systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma, inducing tumor regression in a considerable proportion of patients [4]. Immunotherapy using allogeneic stem cell transplantation is also a promising treatment option for patients with lymphoma that has failed first-line therapy [5].