The role of monoclonal antibodies in the treatment of lymphomas

Introduction: Monoclonal antibodies are a relatively new class of agents for the treatment of lymphoma. Areas covered: Review of the published literature focusing on therapeutic trials of monoclonal antibodies in lymphoma. Because of the extensive number of antibodies under development, this review will focus on either commercially available antibodies or those under development with published advanced clinical data. Expert opinion: The monoclonal antibodies are a unique class of drugs, which induce tumor lysis by immunologic mechanisms rather than DNA damage by more traditional chemotherapy or radiotherapy. These agents have a relatively benign side effect profile and have significant activity in chemoresistant lymphoma. Because this is a relatively new class of therapeutic agents, their role in the treatment of lymphoma is still being ascertained. These drugs appear to be synergistic with traditional chemotherapeutic agents and may play a significant role in maintenance therapy of the lymphomas.