Alemtuzumab (Campath-1H) in chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Abstract

CAMPATH 1H is a chimeric monoclonal antibody directed against CD 52, an antigen present on the surface of malingnant or normal lymphoid cells, macrophages, monocytes, eosinophiles and some epitelial cells. This monoclonal antibody has been used in the treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphomas, autoimmune disease, conditioning schemes for bone marrow transplantation and, particularly, chronic lymphoid leukemia (CLL). Phase II studies in CLL evidenced a global response rate of about 33%, with 4% to 31% of complete responses, in cases of refractory or recurrent disease. The main complications observed were related to venous infusion of the drug (fever, chills, nausea, and hypotension), and opportunistic infections. It is currently ongoing a phase III study to compare the effectivess of CAMPATH 1H and chlorambucil for CLL patients.