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Updated: Apr 23, 2026
Tumor Treating Field Therapy in Combination with Bevacizumab for the Treatment of Recurrent Glioblastoma
Published on: October 27, 2014
Bevacizumab and glioblastoma: scientific review, newly reported updates, and ongoing controversies
Kathryn M Field1, Justin T Jordan, Patrick Y Wen
1Department of Medical Oncology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Abstract:
Anti-angiogenic therapy for glioblastoma has been in the spotlight for several years, as researchers and clinicians strive to find agents with meaningful efficacy against glioblastoma. Bevacizumab in particular, in the second half of the last decade, became the most significant breakthrough in anti-glioblastoma therapy since temozolomide. Optimism for bevacizumab has been somewhat challenged given recent clinical trials that have raised questions regarding its clinical effectiveness, the optimal timing of its use and the validity of endpoints, among other issues. In addition, uncertainty has recently arisen regarding the effects of bevacizumab on quality of life and neurocognitive function, two key clinical endpoints of unquestionable significance among glioblastoma patients. In this review, we highlight these controversies and other recent work related to bevacizumab for glioblastoma.
Insights
Bevacizumab offers a significant advancement in glioblastoma treatment but recent trials question its effectiveness and impact on quality of life. Further research is needed to clarify its role in glioblastoma therapy.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Cancer therapy
- Clinical trials
Background:
- Anti-angiogenic therapy is a key focus for glioblastoma treatment.
- Bevacizumab emerged as a significant advancement, offering new hope for patients.
- Recent clinical trials have introduced questions about its overall effectiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the controversies surrounding bevacizumab in glioblastoma treatment.
- To highlight recent research on bevacizumab's efficacy and impact.
- To discuss its effects on quality of life and neurocognitive function.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent clinical trials and studies.
- Analysis of data regarding bevacizumab's effectiveness.
- Examination of evidence on quality of life and neurocognitive outcomes.
Main Results:
- Bevacizumab's efficacy and optimal usage timing are debated.
- Questions exist regarding the validity of clinical endpoints used in trials.
- Uncertainty surrounds bevacizumab's effects on patient quality of life and neurocognition.
Conclusions:
- Bevacizumab's role in glioblastoma therapy requires further clarification.
- Ongoing research is essential to address current controversies.
- Understanding its impact on patient-reported outcomes is crucial.
