Rapid infusion rituximab is well tolerated in patients with primary CNS lymphoma

Abstract

Aim: To establish the safety and feasibility of rapidly infusing rituximab over 90 min in patients with primary CNS lymphoma (PCNSL). Patients & methods: We retrospectively reviewed all patients with PCNSL who received rapid rituximab infusions (RRI) from January 2016 to January 2017. Primary end point was incidence of infusion reactions. Results & conclusion: 11 patients received a total of 44 RRIs. Rituximab was dosed at 500 or 750 mg/m2. Premedication included acetaminophen and diphenhydramine. No infusion reactions occurred during any RRI. Two infusions were administered with steroids for neurologic symptoms at baseline (4.5%). Rapid administration of rituximab was safe and feasible for patients with PCNSL and at the higher doses received.

Keywords

• neuro-oncology
• primary CNS lymphoma
• rapid infusion
• rituximab