Combining pembrolizumab with chemotherapy for relapsed Hodgkin lymphoma

Phase II Trial of Pembrolizumab in Combination With Salvage Chemotherapy for First-relapsed or Refractory Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma

PHASE2 · University of Cologne · NCT04838652

This study is testing if adding pembrolizumab to standard chemotherapy can help people with relapsed Hodgkin lymphoma feel better and have fewer side effects.

Quick facts

PhasePHASE2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment29 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Cologne (other)
Drugs / interventionspembrolizumab, chemotherapy
Locations1 site (Cologne)
Trial IDNCT04838652 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of pembrolizumab, an anti-PD-1 antibody, in combination with established chemotherapy regimens (ICE or DHAP) for patients with first-relapsed or refractory classical Hodgkin lymphoma. The study seeks to leverage the synergistic effects of checkpoint inhibition alongside conventional chemotherapy to create a more effective treatment option with reduced toxicity. By potentially replacing high-dose chemotherapy, this approach could improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals with histologically confirmed first relapse or primary refractory classical Hodgkin lymphoma.

Not a fit: Patients with nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma or composite lymphoma will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could provide a more effective and less toxic option for patients with relapsed or refractory classical Hodgkin lymphoma.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with similar combinations of checkpoint inhibitors and chemotherapy, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Histologically confirmed first relapse of cHL or primary refractory cHL

Exclusion Criteria:

* Nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma or composite lymphoma

Where this trial is running

Cologne

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.