Dr Deng on the Evolution of the Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment Paradigm

Changchun Deng, MD, PhD, associate professor, hematology/oncology, University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center; member, Immune Oncology Program, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, discusses the evolution of Hodgkin lymphoma management following data readouts at the 2023 ASH Annual Meeting.

Developments are underway in the field of Hodgkin lymphoma, particularly with advancements in upfront treatment strategies, Deng begins, saying that one of the latest approaches involves incorporating a PD-1–directed antibody into initial therapies. This innovation aims to maximize the efficacy of first-line treatments for patients, Deng says. Notably, one of the leading PD-1–directed antibodies being used in this context is nivolumab (Opdivo), he explains. Nivolumab was being combined with the standard AVD (Adriamycin, vinblastine, dacarbazine) chemotherapy regimen in the phase 3 SWOG S1826 trial (NCT03907488). The data on this combination were presented at the 2023 ASH Annual Meeting and the trial has yielded notable results, Deng reports. This treatment approach represents a step forward in the management of Hodgkin lymphoma, demonstrating enhanced therapeutic outcomes, he adds.

In addition to the nivolumab/AVD combination, there is also emerging research on the efficacy of combining nivolumab with brentuximab vedotin (Adcetris), an anti-CD30 antibody-drug conjugate, Deng continues. This regimen is particularly notable for its chemotherapy-free nature and its high response rates in patients with Hodgkin lymphoma, he explains. Studies have shown that administering these 2 agents together can achieve a near-100% response rate, underscoring the potential for substantial progress in treating patients with this disease, Deng elucidates. For patients with early-stage Hodgkin lymphoma, the prospect of receiving 2 drugs with a potential for nearly 100% cure rates is vital, he notes.

The integration of PD-1–directed antibodies, such as nivolumab, into first-line treatment regimens for Hodgkin lymphoma signifies a shift in therapeutic strategies, Deng continues. The combination of nivolumab with established chemotherapy or with other targeted agents, such as brentuximab vedotin,holds promise for improving treatment outcomes and ultimately curing more patients, especially those diagnosed at earlier stages of Hodgkin lymphoma, emphasizing the potential to impact the standards of care, he concludes.