Early association of Vemurafenib to standard chemotherapy in multisystemic Langerhans cell histiocytosis in a newborn: take the chance for a better outcome?

Abstract

LCH is an aberrant monoclonal proliferation of dendritic cells, ranging from a self-limiting local condition to a rapidly progressive multisystemic disease. Pathogenic cells expressed, in almost 70% of cases, an activation of the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway, in particular BRAF V600E mutation. We report on a newborn with multisystemic disease diagnosed in life-threatening medical conditions, who was successfully treated with the early association of BRAF inhibitor Vemurafenib to chemotherapy. After 12 months, Vemurafenib was discontinued, without any signs of relapse. This case indicates that early combination of target therapy with standard treatment may induce rapid response and prolonged disease remission.