Authors' objectives: To assess the available evidence on the efficacy, safety and coverage policy related aspects on the use of brentuximab vedotin for classical Hodgkin's lymphoma in different settings, refractory or relapsed anaplastic large-cell lymphoma, refractory or relapsed diffuse large-B-cell lymphoma and refractory or relapsed mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome. Lymphomas comprise a heterogeneous group of malignant lymphoproliferative diseases. They divide into Hodgkin's lymphoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Most lymphomas have good response to first-line therapies, which generally include chemotherapy and, occasionally, stem cell transplantation. However, patients who are refractory or who relapse after first or second-line therapy have poor prognosis and few therapeutic options. The use of brentuximab vedotin (BV) is proposed for the treatment of lymphomas expressing CD30 membrane protein, such as classical Hodgkin's lymphoma (CHL), anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ALCL), diffuse large-B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome (MF/SS).

Authors' recommendations: The evidence found is of poor quality. The use of brentuximab vedotin for refractory or relapsed classical Hodgkin´s lymphoma and refractory or relapsed systemic anaplastic large-cell lymphoma has demonstrated a high response rate, although comparative studies are missing and its impact on long-term survival is uncertain. In view of the limited therapeutic options and the poor prognosis these patient have most international societies and health sponsors consider it a valid option. The evidence on the use of brentuximab vedotin is of low quality for classical Hodgkin´s lymphoma as consolidation therapy after autologous stem cell transplant, as bridge to allogenic stem cell transplant or as first-line therapy, as well as for refractory or relapsed diffuse large B cell lymphoma and in mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome. The lack of improved survival and the availability of other therapeutic alternatives are the reason not to consider it as a standard treatment and it is therefore not covered for this indications.

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2016

URL for published report: www.iecs.org.ar/home-ets/

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Argentina

Organisation Name: Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy

Contact Address: Dr. Emilio Ravignani 2024, Buenos Aires - Argentina, C1414 CABA

Contact Name: info@iecs.org.ar

Contact Email: info@iecs.org.ar

Copyright: <p>Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (IECS)</p>