Loncastuximab tesirine with rituximab for treating relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

Loncastuximab tesirine with rituximab is currently being developed for the treatment of relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). DLBCL is a cancer of the immune system’s B cells (a type of white blood cell). DLBCL develops when the body makes abnormal B cells which are larger than healthy B cells. The large B cells build up causing blockages in parts of the immune system known as lymph nodes (glands). Relapsed lymphoma means that the disease has returned after responding to treatment. Refractory lymphoma means that the disease no longer responds to a specific treatment. The exact cause is not known, but the risk is higher in people with a weak immune system, those taking medicines that suppress immunity, or those who have had been exposed to the Epstein-Barr virus. Outcomes for patients with disease progression are poor, therefore there is a need to develop new treatment options for DLBCL.