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MEDTECH 
This study compares nivolumab plus AVD (N+AVD) to brentuximab vedotin plus AVD (BV+AVD) in the treatment of advanced-stage classic Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The research focuses on progression-free survival and side effect profiles in adolescents and adults with stage III or IV disease. The findings suggest that N+AVD may offer improved outcomes and tolerability compared to the current standard of care.
Study Design:
- Phase 3, multicenter, open-label, randomized trial
- 994 patients randomized; 970 included in intention-to-treat analysis
- Participants: ≥12 years old with newly diagnosed stage III or IV Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Treatment arms: N+AVD vs. BV+AVD
- Primary endpoint: Progression-free survival
- Median follow-up: Initially 12.1 months, extended to 2.1 years
Key Findings:
- 2-year progression-free survival: 92% for N+AVD vs. 83% for BV+AVD
- Hazard ratio for disease progression or death: 0.45 (95% CI, 0.30 to 0.65)
- Only 7 patients received radiation therapy
- Immune-related adverse events were infrequent with nivolumab
- Brentuximab vedotin associated with more treatment discontinuations
- N+AVD demonstrated better side-effect profile overall
HCN Medical Memo
Although these results are promising, longer-term follow-up is needed to assess the durability of response and potential late effects of N+AVD. When the time is right, physicians should consider discussing this treatment option with eligible patients, weighing the potential benefits against the established track record of BV+AVD. The reduced need for radiation therapy in this study may be particularly relevant for younger patients concerned about long-term effects.
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