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Imatinib mesylate in thymic epithelial malignancies.
Giovannella Palmieri1, Mirella Marino, Carlo Buonerba
1Molecular and Clinical Endocrinology and Oncology Department, University Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80128 Naples, Italy. giovpalm@unina.it
Cancer Chemotherapy and Pharmacology
|June 29, 2011
Summary
Imatinib did not show effectiveness in unselected thymic epithelial tumors (TETs). However, it may benefit selected TET patients, particularly those with the V560del c-KIT mutation.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medical research
Background:
- Thymic epithelial tumors (TETs) are rare mediastinal neoplasms.
- Current chemotherapy for TETs has limitations, especially for metastatic disease.
- Novel systemic therapies are needed for advanced TETs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of imatinib in patients with advanced thymic epithelial tumors (TETs).
- To assess imatinib's safety and tolerability in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- A phase II trial administered 400 mg of imatinib daily to patients with advanced TETs who progressed after chemotherapy.
- Radiographic responses were assessed using CT scans and RECIST criteria.
- Toxicity was graded using National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria v3.0.
Main Results:
- Fifteen patients with advanced TETs were enrolled; three had thymic carcinoma.
- No radiographic responses were observed.
- Imatinib was well-tolerated, with mild and manageable side effects like diarrhea and migraine. Median progression-free survival was 3 months.
Conclusions:
- Imatinib is not effective in unselected patients with thymic epithelial tumors.
- Imatinib may be a viable treatment option for specific TET patients, such as those with the V560del c-KIT mutation.
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