Network meta-analysis of targeted therapies for diffuse large B cell lymphoma

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was to compare rank targeted therapies for patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). METHODS: The PubMed, EmBase, and Cochrane library electronic databases were systematically searched throughout December 2019. Direct and indirect evidence from relevant RCTs was identified for network meta-analysis. The pooled results for grade 3 or greater adverse events between targeted therapies and chemotherapy were calculated using a random-effects model. RESULTS: A total of 18 RCTs enrolling 8207 DLBCL patients were selected for the final meta-analysis. The results of the network analysis indicated that the addition of dacetuzumab (74.8%) to rituximab-based regimens or lenalidomide (77.1%) was associated with better therapeutic effects on overall survival, whereas dacetuzumab (80.4%) or bortezomib (70.8%) added to rituximab was most likely to improve events-free survival. Moreover, lenalidomide (93.8%) and I-tositumomab (77.2%) were associated with higher overall response rates. Finally, patients receiving targeted therapies were associated with an increased risk of diarrhea (RR: 2.63; 95%CI: 1.18–5.86; P = 0.019), and thrombocytopenia (RR: 1.41; 95%CI: 1.05–1.90; P = 0.023). CONCLUSIONS: This study provides the best treatment strategy for DLBCL patients in terms of overall survival, events-free survival, and overall response rate. The findings of this study require validation with further large-scale RCTs. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-020-07715-2.