Ruxolitinib for the treatment of lymphoma-associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis: A cautionary tale

While treating the underlying lymphoma is a clear priority, the cytopenias and other symptoms of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis complicate the delivery of this therapy. Hence, the use of ruxolitinib as a bridge to definitive therapy was appealing. However, we are concerned about the progression of lymphoma while these patients were taking ruxolitinib. Ruxolitinib may be controlling cytokine storm associated with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, while other aspects of the condition are progressing. Therefore, we would advise caution in its use in lymphoma-associated-hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis until more data are available.