Extranodal NK/T cell Lymphoma: Evidence based review of safety and toxicity of the available regimens

Abstract Extranodal NK/T cell lymphoma (ENKTL) is a rare type of mature T and NK neoplasm. It is more prevalent in Asia and Latin America where Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) is endemic and have been linked to the disease. Most studies have emerged from those two regions to evaluate best management options. There are no standards of care in the management due to lack of unified approach depending on the treatment region and availability of different therapy options. Several reviews have focused on the outcome of the different chemotherapy combinations. There are no systematic reviews of the toxicity of those regimens despite that many of them incorporate the use of asparaginase and/or radiation in combination with chemotherapy. We have found that while integration of asparaginase and/or radiation have led to improved outcome, it was done on the expense of increased toxicity. Most recent studies are showing promising outcome while decreasing toxicity.