Cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCLs) comprise of a group of rare and heterogeneous skin
lymphoproliferative disorders derived from skin resident T cells. Treatment of CTCLs is based on skin-directed approaches and/or systemic
therapies. Advanced CTCLs are difficult to treat with the currently available treatments as they generally fail to obtain prolonged clinical remission. Recent studies concerning the pathogenetic mechanisms that are operative in CTCL have provided additional potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of these disorders. In particular, development of novel
monoclonal antibodies against presumptive pathogenic molecules has resulted in targeted approaches to the clinical management of this group of
lymphoproliferative disorders. Areas covered: The following article examines the current and emerging
monoclonal antibody-based
therapies for CTCL, with a particular focus on
mycosis fungoides, primary cutaneous anaplastic large cell CD30+
lymphoma and
Sezary syndrome. Expert opinion: These novel
monoclonal antibodies may represent an innovative approach for targeted treatment of CTCL given their increased clinical efficacy and the acceptable toxicity profiles of most
antibodies. In particular, anti-CD52, anti-CD30 and anti-CCR4
monoclonal antibodies represent the most promising agents with single agent activity, although the combination of these targeted
monoclonal antibodies with other active agents deserves attention.