Treating Cutaneous Lymphoma
43
medications to protect the immune system while on therapy and for up to
6 months afterwards.
Liposomal Doxorubicin (Doxil®)
is a special formulation of doxorubicin,
a drug that interferes with DNA activity in cancer cells. The liposome,
or microscopic sphere of fat surrounding the doxorubicin, minimizes side
effects and improves activity. Doxorubicin is delivered by intravenous
infusion every 2-4 weeks. Certain patients will have an evaluation of heart
function performed prior to starting therapy.
Gemcitabine (Gemzar®)
is a chemotherapy drug that works by
interfering with DNA production in cancer cells. It is delivered by
intravenous administration usually weekly for 2-3 weeks, with a week of
rest before the cycle is repeated.
Multi-Agent Combination Chemotherapy
The use of chemotherapy drug combinations in cutaneous lymphoma
should be discouraged because they have never been proven to be more
effective than sequential single agents, and they are always much more
toxic. Combinations such as CHOP (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin,
vincristine, and prednisone), ESAHP (etoposide, solumedrol, high-dose
ara-C, and cisplatin), and GND (gemcitabine, navelbine, and doxil) may be
used when no other therapy is available, or in rare circumstances as a way
to produce brief responses in preparation for a bone marrow transplant.
Clinical Trials
The best way to identify effective drugs and find new ways to treat
cutaneous lymphoma is through ongoing research and testing including
clinical trials. Because this disease is less common than other forms of
cancer, scientists depend upon willing participants. Clinical trials are
crucial in identifying prognostic strategies and determining optimal doses
for patients.
If you are interested in participating in a clinical trial, talk to your doctor
about which ones may be appropriate and available for you. You can also
find information about current and ongoing clinical trials on the Cutaneous
Lymphoma Foundation’s website (
). You can learn
more about clinical trials in Chapter 17 of this guide.
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