Introduction of novel agents in the treatment of primary CNS lymphoma

Christian Grommes1, Lakshmi Nayak2, Han W Tun3

  • 1Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.

Neuro-Oncology
|November 14, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Novel treatments for primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) target key pathways. Clinical trials show promising response rates for recurrent or refractory PCNSL using novel agents like BTK inhibitors and IMiDs.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Immunology
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) pathogenesis involves B-cell receptor and Toll-like receptor pathways.
  • Immune evasion and a suppressed tumor immune microenvironment are critical in PCNSL development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an overview of recent advancements in PCNSL treatment.
  • To summarize clinical trial results for novel agents in recurrent or refractory PCNSL.

Main Methods:

  • Review of recent clinical trials and literature on PCNSL.
  • Focus on novel agents targeting aberrant pathways in PCNSL.

Main Results:

  • Agents like Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors (e.g., ibrutinib) and immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) show high response rates in salvage settings.
  • Clinical trials are evaluating immune checkpoint inhibitors, IMiDs, BTK, phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase, and mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors.

Conclusions:

  • Novel agents targeting specific molecular pathways offer promising therapeutic strategies for PCNSL.
  • Further research and clinical trials are essential for optimizing treatment for recurrent or refractory PCNSL.

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