Brentuximab Vedotin (Adcetris®) for the Treatment of CD30-Positive Hematologic Malignancies

Brentuximab vedotin (SGN-35; Adcetris®) is an anti-CD30 antibody conjugated via a protease-cleavable linker to the potent anti-microtubule agent monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE). Following binding to CD30, brentuximab vedotin is rapidly internalized and transported to lysosomes where MMAE is released and binds to tubulin, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Several trials have shown durable antitumor activity with a manageable safety profile in patients with relapsed/refractory systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, or primary cutaneous CD30-positive lymphoproliferative disorders. Peripheral sensory neuropathy is a significant adverse event associated with brentuximab vedotin administration. Neuropathy symptoms are cumulative and dose-related. Multiple ongoing trials are currently evaluating brentuximab vedotin alone or in combination with other agents in relapsed/refractory patients, as well as in patients with newly diagnosed disease.