Epcoritamab (CD3×CD20 bispecific) + BR delivers 96% CR and 83% 3-year PFS in 1L follicular lymphoma

Epcoritamab is a subcutaneous CD3×CD20 T-cell–engaging bispecific antibody; in EPCORE NHL-2 arm 3 (Phase 1b/2; NCT04663347), it was combined with first-line bendamustine+rituximab (BR) followed by epcoritamab monotherapy (up to 2 years) in newly diagnosed FL (n=25). At median follow-up 41.3 months, best ORR and CR were both 96%, median time to CR was 1.5 months, and 3-year PFS/OS were 83%/96%; 87% of responders remained in CR at 3 years, including high-risk subgroups (bulky ≥7cm 100% CR; FLIPI ≥3 93% CR; bone marrow involvement 100% CR). Safety was consistent with component agents with no grade ≥3 CRS or ICANS reported, but infections were common (92%), with COVID-19 the most frequent (84%); efficacy looks directionally favorable versus historical BR-only first-line outcomes where long-term PFS is generally strong but varies by population/maintenance strategy, and confirmation in larger comparative studies is still needed.