Romidepsin: evidence for its potential use to manage previously treated cutaneous T cell lymphoma

INTRODUCTION: Cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL) encompasses a heterogeneous group of neoplasms of skin-homing T cells, which includes mycosis fungoides, the most common form, and Sézary syndrome, the leukemia equivalent of mycosis fungoides. Histone deacetylase inhibitors are currently under investigation for their therapeutic value in a variety of conditions. Through multiple mechanisms, they induce apoptosis or inhibition of tumor cell growth. Some studies have also shown histone deacetylase inhibitors to have synergistic activity with existing therapeutic agents in selected conditions. Romidepsin is a histone deacetylase inhibitor with a promising efficacy and safety profile that may represent a valuable treatment alternative for patients with treatment-resistant mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome. AIMS: To review emerging evidence regarding the use of romidepsin in the management of treatment-resistant CTCL. EVIDENCE REVIEW: There is evidence that romidepsin can induce significant and durable responses in patients with refractory CTCL. In two independent Phase II trials including a total of 167 patients with CTCL, there was an overall response rate of 34% with a partial response of 28% and complete response rate of 6%. The most frequent toxicities reported from the Phase II trials were nausea, vomiting, fatigue, anorexia, and dysgeusia. CLINICAL POTENTIAL: Romidepsin may be an effective therapeutic option for patients with CTCL who have had treatment failure with multiple standard treatment modalities.