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Updated: May 28, 2026

Pre-clinical Evaluation of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors for Treatment of Acute Leukemia
Published on: September 18, 2013
Challenges associated with tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy for metastatic thyroid cancer
Maria E Cabanillas1, Mimi I Hu, Jean-Bernard Durand
1Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Abstract:
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) which target angiogenesis are promising treatments for patients with metastatic medullary and differentiated thyroid cancers. Sorafenib, sunitinib, and pazopanib are commercially available drugs which have been studied in these diseases. Vandetanib is the first drug approved in the United States for treatment of medullary thyroid cancer. These TKIs are used as chronic therapies, and therefore it is imperative to understand the adverse event profile in order to avoid excessive toxicity and maintain patients on therapy as long as it proves beneficial. Here we review common toxicities, management of these, and other challenging situations that arise when using TKIs in patients with thyroid cancer.
Insights
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) offer promising treatments for advanced thyroid cancers by targeting angiogenesis. Understanding and managing their adverse events is crucial for effective long-term therapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Metastatic medullary and differentiated thyroid cancers are treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) targeting angiogenesis.
- Commercially available TKIs include sorafenib, sunitinib, and pazopanib.
- Vandetanib is US-approved for medullary thyroid cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the adverse event profiles of TKIs used in thyroid cancer.
- To discuss the management of common toxicities associated with these therapies.
- To address challenging situations encountered during chronic TKI treatment for thyroid cancer.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of clinical studies and drug approvals.
- Analysis of adverse event data from published trials.
- Clinical experience in managing TKI-related toxicities.
Main Results:
- TKIs targeting angiogenesis are effective for metastatic thyroid cancers.
- Common toxicities require careful monitoring and management.
- Adherence to therapy depends on managing adverse events.
Conclusions:
- TKIs represent a significant therapeutic advance for advanced thyroid cancers.
- Proactive management of TKI-induced toxicities is essential for patient benefit.
- Understanding and mitigating adverse events optimizes chronic TKI therapy in thyroid cancer.
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