LAUSR

ABSTRACT Introduction: Dinutuximab, an anti-GD2 antibody, specifically targets the high-expression of GD2 on neuroblastoma cells, and its incorporation into maintenance high-risk neuroblastoma therapy has increased event-free survival for this devastating disease. Efficacy of dinutuximab during other phases of therapy or in relapsed and refractory patients remains under investigation. Areas covered: This review looked at available publications (via PubMed search and online abstract catalogs of recent scientific meetings) on pre-clinical safety studies of dinutuximab as well as results and current impressions of pending trials including dinutuximab and other anti-GD2 antibodies. While dinutuximab has become the standard of care for maintenance therapy in many cooperative trials, long-term follow-ups as well as ongoing assessment about timing of antibody use and co-administration of other pharmacologic or immune-modulatory agents remains under study. Expert opinion: Results of these and ongoing trials demonstrate prolonged time to first relapse and potentially overall survival benefit when dinutuximab is used during maintenance therapy. The role cytokines administered in conjunction with dinutuximab remains unclear and may increase toxicity without additional benefit. Current also investigations demonstrate promising efficacy in relapsed and refractory neuroblastoma. Further study is warranted in order to appropriately incorporate dinutuximab into current treatment strategies.