Immunomodulators in the treatment of cutaneous lymphoma.

BACKGROUND

Cutaneous lymphoma involves clonal proliferation of immunocompetent cells. Immunointerventional strategies are a rational approach to the treatment of cutaneous lymphoma given the pathophysiological aspects of the disease.

OBJECTIVE

Immunomodulatory therapies in cutaneous lymphoma are reviewed, including interferons, interleukin-2, cyclosporin A, monoclonal antibodies, autologous bone marrow transplantation, fusion toxins, thymopentin and extracorporeal photopheresis as well as recently reported methods such as vaccination therapy, mycophenolate, and new retinoids.

RESULTS/CONCLUSION: Cutaneous lymphoma is sensitive to immunointerventions. This approach should be used in early stages of the disease when it is more susceptible and benefits better from immunomodulatory treatment modalities.