Article Details - Overview
Case Studies in Oncology Vol. 9, No. 3
Release Date: October 31, 2008
Expiration Date: October 31, 2009
Publication Overview
Authors
Lauren E. Abrey, MD; Thomas J. Kaley, MD
Overview and Purpose
Gliomas comprise approximately 2% of all cancers but have been increasing in incidence over the past 50 years. They result in considerable patient morbidity, and until recently, median overall survival (OS) for patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most aggressive form of glioma, was generally < 1 year, with almost all patients succumbing to their disease within 2 years of diagnosis. The combination of an orally available alkylating agent and radiation therapy in a phase III trial yielded a median OS exceeding 14 months in patients with newly diagnosed GBM. Management of recurrent GBM is an unmet medical need, with no standard treatment options and a 6-month progression-free survival (PFS) rate of only 15%. Because GBM is a highly vascularized tumor, antiangiogenic approaches have been explored. Recent trials of antibodies to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) alone or in combination with chemotherapy have demonstrated 6-month PFS rates of 25%-50%. Other antiangiogenic approaches, such as decoy receptors of VEGF, VEGF receptor (VEGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and VEGFR-binding agents, have also been investigated. Several ongoing clinical trials are further investigating the use of angiogenesis inhibitors in the treatment of GBM.
The purpose of this activity is to update physicians on new developments with chemotherapy and targeted agents in the treatment of GBM.
Target Audience
This activity is intended for medical oncologists involved in the care of patients with gliomas. No specific skills or knowledge other than a basic training in oncology is required for successful participation in this activity.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this educational activity, you should be able to:
- Discuss treatment approaches for patients with newly diagnosed GBM
- Describe the tumor biology of gliomas with respect to the use of antiangiogenic agents
- Assess the clinical activity of treatment regimens with antiangiogenic agents in patients with recurrent gliomas
Instructions for Participation
- Read the following information before entering the educational activity.
- Complete the Pretest
- Study the educational activity.
- Complete the CME test.
- Answer the evaluation questions.
- After successful completion of the CME test and evaluation, you will receive your certificate of credit online.
CME credit will be granted for only 1 form of participation, either online or via the printed publication.
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