Who Can Get Immunotherapy for Leukemia?
Immunotherapy is often used in people with leukemia when other treatment options, such as chemotherapy, do not work as expected. It can also be suggested in case of leukemia relapse, meaning the return of cancer cells after successful treatments. For several forms of leukemia, immunotherapy may be a part of initial treatment. For instance, an immunotherapy drug called monoclonal antibody rituximab can be taken when treating chronic lymphocytic leukemia. In this case, the procedure should be combined with targeted therapy or chemotherapy. [3]
Immunotherapy for Children with Leukemia
Leukemia may occur in children. The most common form of leukema in this age group is acute lymphocytic leukemia, while chronic types are relatively rare. Several immunotherapy medications can be taken to treat leukemia in children. Some approved drugs include:
– Tisagenlecleucel: a CAR T-cell therapy for treating acute lymphocytic leukemia.
– Blinatumomab: a monoclonal antibody for treating acute lymphocytic leukemia.
– Gemtuzumab ozogamicin: a conjugated monoclonal antibody for treating acute myeloid leukemia. [4]
