Enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma: A population-based cohort study on incidence, treatment, and outcome in the Netherlands

Introduction: Enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma (EATL) is a peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) with a poor prognosis. Cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (CHOP) with or without etoposide consolidated by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) are recommended for fit PTCL patients. The role of etoposide and ASCT in EATL is unclear.

Methods: This study reports the incidence, treatment, and outcome of EATL patients using the Netherlands Cancer Registry, with nationwide coverage of >95%.

Results: All patients diagnosed in 1989-2021 (n = 351, 77% treated) were identified (median age 67 years, 56% male, 50% limited stage). Time period analysis assessed trends in primary therapy and overall survival (OS). Treatment included chemotherapy (CT) (34%), surgery (18%), surgery and CT (19%) or CT followed by ASCT (7%). The 5-year OS for treated patients with limited versus advanced stage was 19% and 9% respectively. The 2-year OS improved over time (21%-33%, p = 0.06). Surgery only (hazard ratio [HR] 2.16; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.55-3.01, p < 0.01) and advanced-stage disease (HR 1.67; 95% CI 1.25-2.23, p = 0.01) were predictors of poor prognosis. ASCT (HR 0.31; 95% CI 0.18-0.56) was associated with improved OS.

Conclusion: There was no statistical difference in OS between patients treated with or without etoposide. Current first-line treatment is ineffective.