135 research outputs found

    Fosbretabulin for the treatment of anaplastic thyroid cancer

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    Fosbretabulin tromethamine is a vascular disrupting agent, which is a type of drug that is designed to damage the vasculature (blood vessels) of cancer tumors, causing central necrosis. This drug showed activity against anaplastic thyroid cancer that was demonstrated in orthotopic xenograft models as well as in Phase I/II trials with or without carboplatin and paclitaxel combination therapy. In all of these studies, fosbretabulin was well tolerated

    Biological agents in head and neck cancer

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    Survival of head and neck cancer (HNC) patients has not dramatically improved over the last 30 years, despite the advances in surgical techniques, chemotherapeutic agents and radiotherapy treatment planning and definition. Different studies in molecular biology of HNC have been carried out, providing useful results for clinical application. HNC usually includes malignant tumors arising from mucosa of the upper aerodigestive tract, from nasopharynx to larynx/trachea, while salivary gland and thyroid cancers are less frequently listed in this classification. In this review, we chose to provide a comprehensive review of the role of biological agents in head and neck subsites. Molecular characteristics and treatment-relevant signaling pathways will be briefly discussed along with the results of the more recent clinical studies that include biological agents

    A multidisciplinary approach to squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck : what is new?

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    Purpose of review: The aim of this article is to review progress in the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (in the light of the most recent literature). Due to the complexity of the disease the multidisciplinary approach needs also a multidisciplinary knowledge which this review tries to summarize. Recent findings: The multidisciplinary treatment approach to the disease includes predictive and prognostic value of biomolecular and clinical factors, the role of induction chemotherapy and concurrent chemo-radiotherapy, new advances in postoperative treatment, treatment-related side-effects and their impact on patients' quality of life, new targeted therapies and treatment choice for incurable patients. Advances in other disciplines, such as radiation therapy and new imaging techniques, will be considered elsewhere in this journal. Summary: Major advances derived from the strategic use of different treatment and diagnostic modalities. The importance of a multidisciplinary team and knowledge in the approach of this disease should be stressed. Today, a multidisciplinary diagnostic and treatment philosophy is the tool to guarantee the best treatment plan definition, to prevent and relieve treatment adverse effects with the ultimate goal to improve survival
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