NHS England approves dabrafenib and a second drug for rare blood cancers in children and adults
Around 200 patients a year, including infants, will gain access to two newly approved treatments for histiocytic neoplasms after NHS England commissioning decisions.
NHS England has approved two treatments for rare blood cancers classed as histiocytic neoplasms, with around 200 patients a year expected to benefit. One of the newly commissioned medicines is dabrafenib, a tablet that targets tumours driven by BRAF mutations — a genetic alteration found in a subset of histiocytic neoplasms. The announcement, published on 17 July 2026, specifies that infants and young children are among those who will be eligible, making this commissioning decision notable for paediatric oncology.
Histiocytic neoplasms are a heterogeneous group of rare cancers arising from cells of the mononuclear phagocyte system. BRAF inhibitors such as dabrafenib have an established evidence base in BRAF V600E-driven cancers including melanoma and certain thyroid cancers; the NHS commissioning here extends access to a rarer indication where treatment options have historically been limited.
NHS England describes the approvals as relevant when other therapies have failed, positioning them within the landscape of later-line options. Full prescribing details, including eligibility criteria and the identity of the second approved drug, are set out in the NHS England commissioning policy documentation linked from the announcement. Oncologists and haematologists treating patients with histiocytic neoplasms should consult the relevant NHS England specialised commissioning guidance for eligibility and referral pathways.
Plain-language version
For patients, families, and general readers. Educational only — not medical advice.
NHS England has decided to fund two new medicines for a group of rare blood cancers called histiocytic neoplasms. About 200 people a year — including babies and young children — are expected to be eligible. One of the drugs is called dabrafenib, which works by targeting a specific change (called a BRAF mutation) sometimes found in these cancers. These medicines are intended for people whose cancer has not responded to other treatments.
Histiocytic neoplasms are uncommon cancers that affect certain immune cells in the body. Until now, treatment choices for people with these cancers have been limited.
This is an educational summary, not medical advice. If anything here raises questions for you, please speak with your GP or a clinical professional.
Sources
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Primary source NHS England · 2026-07-17Landmark NHS approval of cancer drugs offers new hope for children and adults with rare blood cancers