T-DM1 extravasation: first description

Extravasation of monoclonal antibodies commonly used in oncology: Classification, management and the role of the pharmacist

INTRODUCTION

Extravasation by conventional cytotoxics has been well documented. While monoclonal antibodies are not considered to have the necrotic potential of some cytotoxic medicines, they require appropriate management in case of extravasation. However, fewer data are available on their classification and appropriate management when extravasation occurs. As monoclonal antibodies are being more commonly used in current daily oncology practice, this is an issue that cannot be ignored.

METHODS

A scientific literature review on PubMed was conducted. All findings were critically appraised independently by 6 clinical pharmacists in order to provide a classification according to the extravasation hazard.

RESULTS

A classification of non-conjugated and conjugated monoclonal antibodies according to extravasation hazard has been elaborated for different molecules frequently used in oncology. In addition, general management, in case extravasation of monoclonal antibodies occurs, has been proposed and the role of the pharmacist in the extravasation process has been described.

CONCLUSION

A classification of hazard extent of extravasation of monoclonal antibodies with concurrent management based on literature data and expert consensus has been elaborated. In addition, the role of the oncology pharmacist is crucial in terms of follow-up and documentation of the extravasated monoclonal antibody and management is described.

Extravasation of brentuximab vedotin, an antibody-drug conjugate, in a patient with anaplastic large cell lymphoma

Brentuximab vedotin (BV) is an antibody-drug conjugate, consisting of a CD30-directed antibody, conjugated by a protease-cleavable linker to a microtubule disrupting agent auristatin E (MMAE). Although the safety datasheet of BV does not warn of severe toxic effects of extravasation, we report a third case of a patient with anaplastic large cell lymphoma who developed severe epidermal necrosis after extravasation. The reason for what happened could be attributed to the fact that MMAE belongs to the group of vinca alkaloids so it should be handled like other tissue-necrotising chemotherapeutics. Reporting of all cases of extravasation involving new conjugated chemotherapeutic drugs is of the utmost importance to be able to develop updated guidelines. Hospital pharmacists can provide information on how to manage extravasation, assess the potential risk, and have a crucial role in drafting hospital protocols.

Antibody-drug conjugates: the clinical development in gastric cancer

Gastric cancer (GC) is a prevalent malignant tumor of the digestive system worldwide, ranking among the top five in terms of incidence and mortality. However, the clinical efficacy of conventional treatments for gastric cancer remains limited, with a median overall survival of approximately eight months for advanced cases. In recent years, researchers have increasingly focused on antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) as a promising approach. ADCs are potent chemical drugs that selectively target cancer cells by binding to specific cell surface receptors with antibodies. Notably, ADCs have demonstrated promising results in clinical studies and have made significant strides in the treatment of gastric cancer. Currently, several ADCs are under investigation in clinical trials for gastric cancer patients, targeting various receptors such as EGFR, HER-2, HER-3, CLDN18.2, Mucin 1, among others. This review offers a comprehensive exploration of ADC drug characteristics and provides an overview of the research progress in ADC-based therapies for gastric cancer.

Monoclonal antibody extravasations: Two case reports and literature review

INTRODUCTION

Extravasation is a rare complication from intravenous chemotherapy administration. Literature about monoclonal antibody (MoAb) extravasations is scarce and also conflicting in how they are classified.

CASE REPORT

We reported two different cases of MoAb extravasations with cetuximab and nivolumab outcome respectively. The administration site appeared inflamed and patients did not report disturbances.Management and outcome: Both extravasations did not require specific treatment. General unspecific measures suffice to properly manage these extravasations and no sequels were observed after long follow-up. Both patients received all further courses of MoAb without any adverse events.

DISCUSSION

To our knowledge, we reported the first case-report of nivolumab extravasation in the literature. In addition, the cetuximab extravasation management and outcome was in accordance with previously published reports. Both MoAb may be considered as non-aggressive or neutral. We reviewed published information about MoAb extravasations. In conclusion, not all MoAb should be classified in the same category when extravasated and special precautions are warranted with conjugated MoAb and bevacizumab.