Initial experience with bendamustine in patients with recurrent primary central nervous system lymphoma: a case report

J Neurooncol. 2012 May;107(3):659-63. doi: 10.1007/s11060-011-0788-x. Epub 2012 Jan 17.

Abstract

Novel therapeutic options for patients with recurrent primary central nervous system lymphoma (RPCNSL) are needed. Bendamustine, a bifunctional purine analog/alkylating agent, is approved for use in patients with progressive systemic indolent non-Hodgkin's B-cell lymphomas. Limited data suggests that bendamustine may partition into the brain in the setting of a disrupted blood-brain barrier. This report describes the first known experience of patients with RPCNSL treated with bendamustine. Therapy was well-tolerated and best response was noted as stable disease after eight cycles of bendamustine followed by a subsequent local systemic recurrence found at five months follow-up. CNS involvement in this patient remained stable 20 + months post-bendamustine treatment. Based on our observations, further neuropharmacokinetic and efficacy studies with bendamustine may be warranted in this patient population.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating / therapeutic use*
  • Bendamustine Hydrochloride
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms / physiopathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin / drug therapy*
  • Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin / physiopathology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / drug therapy*
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / physiopathology
  • Nitrogen Mustard Compounds / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating
  • Nitrogen Mustard Compounds
  • Bendamustine Hydrochloride