Immune checkpoint inhibitors therapy as the game-changing approach for pediatric lymphoma: A brief landscape

Abstract

Lymphoma is known as the third most common malignancy in children, and its prevalence and mortality are increasing. Common treatments, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and also surgery, despite their efficacy, have many side effects and, have a high chance of disease relapse. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (ICIs) offer a promising alternative with potentially fewer risks of relapse and toxicity. This review article aims to investigate the efficacy and safety of ICIs, either as monotherapy or in combination, for pediatric lymphoma patients. ICIs have revolutionized cancer treatment in recent years and have shown remarkable results in several adult cancers. However, their efficacy in treating pediatrics requires further investigation. Nevertheless, some ICIs, including nivolumab, pembrolizumab, and ipilimumab, have demonstrated encouraging outcomes. ICIs therapy is not without risks and can cause side effects, including rash, itching, vitiligo, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dysphagia, epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, thyroid, and pituitary dysfunction. Overall, this review article highlights the potential benefits and risks of ICIs in treating pediatric lymphoma.

Keywords: Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors; Lymphoma; Neoplasms.