Bladder cancer, particularly muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC), poses significant treatment challenges due to its high recurrence rate and aggressive nature. Traditionally, neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgery (radical cystectomy) has been the standard of care for cisplatin-eligible patients. However, researchers have been exploring ways to improve outcomes by incorporating immunotherapy into treatment. A recent phase 3 …
New Treatments and Therapies
Here, we delve into the dynamic world of cutting-edge cancer treatments and therapies. Stay informed about groundbreaking advancements in cancer care, from emerging therapies to novel treatment modalities. Discover how science and technology are shaping the future of oncology, offering new hope and possibilities to those affected by cancer. Join us as we explore innovative approaches that hold the promise of brighter tomorrows for patients and their families.
On October 18, 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved zolbetuximab-clzb (Vyloy, Astellas Pharma), a novel treatment for adults with locally advanced unresectable or metastatic human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative gastric or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma. This approval brings a much-needed new option for patients whose tumors express the CLDN18.2 protein, as identified through an FDA-approved test. …
Hope for Advanced Bladder Cancer Bladder cancer is often like an unwelcome party crasher, popping up when least expected and causing considerable distress. Yet, in the realm of oncology, we are constantly seeking new ways to send such unwelcome guests packing. Today, I am thrilled to share some exciting news about a promising new approach …
Immunotherapy has made significant strides in cancer treatment, but microsatellite stable (MSS) metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) has long posed a challenge due to its resistance to immune-based therapies. However, promising results from a recent phase 2/3 trial have shown that the individualized neoantigen-directed immunotherapy, GRANITE, may change the outlook for patients with MSS mCRC. This innovative therapy, combined …
On October 10, 2024, the FDA approved a new and promising treatment for patients with advanced breast cancer: inavolisib (Itovebi), in combination with palbociclib and fulvestrant. This new approval offers fresh hope for patients with endocrine-resistant, PIK3CA-mutated, hormone receptor (HR)-positive, and HER2-negative breast cancer, especially those whose disease has progressed after endocrine therapy. The approval also includes the FoundationOne Liquid CDx assay, a diagnostic test used to …
A recent New England Journal of Medicine study introduces asciminib, a new treatment for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) that shows improved effectiveness and fewer side effects compared to current therapies. This post will explain the study’s findings and what they mean for patients and caregivers, highlighting how asciminib could offer a better option for those newly diagnosed with …
Sophia’s Story I’ll never forget the day I met Sophia. She sat in my clinic, a mother of two and a dedicated teacher, but her eyes were clouded with fear. When she first received the news that she had high-risk bladder cancer, she told me she felt like the ground had shifted beneath her feet. …
Gene Therapy: A Promising Future As I continue to highlight key aspects of SCD this September, I will shift the focus to the exciting advancements in research and treatment. Recent breakthroughs offer new hope and possibilities for individuals living with this condition. In this installment, we’ll explore the latest research developments, including innovative therapies and …
A recent article published in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) demonstrated higher response, longer progression free survival and overall survival in patients with unresectable or metastatic leiomyosarcoma. A treatment protocol that we’ve been doing for at least 1-2 years prior given the known higher response rate reported at conferences. This is a new …
EGFR-Mutated Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) is a protein located on the surface of cells that regulates their growth and division. Mutations in the EGFR gene can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and are commonly found in various cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In patients with unresectable stage …