Risk of infection associated with new therapies for lymphoproliferative syndromes

Over the last decade, there have been important developments in the treatment of lymphoproliferative disorders. Apart from conventional chemotherapy, a wide array of therapies has been developed, with different indications. The aim of this review is to evaluate the risk of infection associated with these therapies, as well as establishing prevention recommendations. In all cases, the patient's underlying disease as well as concomitant or previous therapies have an impact on the risk of infection. Anti-CD20 antibodies (rituximab, ofatumumab and obinutuzumab) have been associated with a higher risk of bacterial and viral infection, as well as reactivation of latent infections and opportunistic infections. Alemtuzumab is associated with severe, protracted immunosuppression. Ibrutinib and acalabrutinib have been linked to bacterial infections (especially respiratory infections), invasive fungal infections and opportunistic infections. Idelalisib carries a higher risk of Pneumocystis jirovecii and infection and cytomegalovirus reactivation. Venetoclax is associated with respiratory infections and neutropenia. Immune checkpoint inhibitors are not directly associated with a higher risk of infection; nevertheless, the use of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants to control immune-related adverse events results in an increase of the risk of infection. Brentuximab, lenalidomide and histone deacetylase inhibitors do not seem to be associated with a higher risk of infections. Although data are scarce, a higher number of infections have been observed with cellular therapies, mostly in patients with more than 3 previous antineoplastic treatments or those receiving tocilizumab or corticosteroids for managing the cytokine release syndrome. In all patients, we recommend appropriate vaccination, screening for latent infections, and individualized prophylaxis recommendations.