Article Details - Overview
This activity is part of PER's Integrated Oncology Learning Series:
A Focus on Thoracic Malignancies
The Role of Maintenance Therapy and Biomarkers in Frontline Therapy for Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Oncology Briefings
Release Date: July 30, 2009
Expiration Date: July 30, 2010
Publication Overview
Authors
Medical writer: Bing-e Xu, PhD; Reviewed by: H. Jack West, MD
Overview and Purpose
Several new approaches to improve the outcomes of frontline therapy for advanced non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have recently been undertaken, including the administration of maintenance therapy immediately following first-line treatment in patients with nonprogressive disease. Several recent phase III trials demonstrated that maintenance therapy using second-line agents such as taxanes, antifolates, or tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) significantly prolonged progression-free survival in patients with advanced NSCLC. Another approach is the investigation of biomarkers to select patients who are most likely to benefit from targeted therapy. For example, activating EGFR mutations have been demonstrated to be predictive of deriving clinical benefit from first-line therapy with EGFR TKIs. Considerable effort is also being invested to identify biomarkers for anti-EGFR antibodies. These new strategies will likely aid the optimization of first-line therapy and the development of personalized treatment for patients with advanced NSCLC.
The purpose of this activity is to update physicians on maintenance therapy and personalizing targeted therapy based on biomarkers in first-line treatment of patients with advanced NSCLC.
Target Audience
This educational activity is intended for medical oncologists involved in the care of patients with NSCLC. 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:
- Assess the efficacy and safety of an antifolate as maintenance therapy following first-line treatment of advanced NSCLC
- Describe the clinical data on maintenance therapy using an EGFR TKI in advanced NSCLC
- Discuss the value of biomarkers in predicting clinical benefits from EGFR inhibitors
Instructions for Participation
- Read the following information before entering the educational activity.
- Complete the Pretest.
- Study the educational activity.
- Complete the Posttest.
- Answer the evaluation questions.
- After completion of the Pretest and successful completion of the Posttest and evaluation, you will receive your certificate online.
You will be permitted 2 attempts to successfully complete the Posttest.
The tests and evaluation must be completed by July 30, 2010, in order for you to receive your certificate.
You will be asked to login
or create an account.