Desensitization of Brentuximab Vedotin in a Patient with Hodgkin Lymphoma

Brentuximab vedotin is a monoclonal antibody that targets the CD30 antigen. It is indicated for the treatment of Hodgkin lymphoma. Hypersensitivity reactions have occurred during infusions of brentuximab vedotin, ranging from mild to severe. We report a case of a 46-year-old male with stage IV nodular sclerosis Hodgkin lymphoma who developed a hypersensitivity reaction to brentuximab vedotin. He experienced a generalized rash, facial swelling, and mild airway obstruction. In order to continue treatment with brentuximab vedotin, we implemented a desensitization protocol. He was premedicated and a 12-step process was performed in which brentuximab vedotin was titrated over three hours. The protocol was successful, allowing the patient to receive subsequent infusions without hypersensitivity reactions.