BRAF inhibitors: experience in thyroid cancer and general review of toxicity

M E Cabanillas1, A Patel, B P Danysh

  • 1Department of Endocrine Neoplasia & Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd. Unit 1461, Houston, TX, 77030, USA, mcabani@mdanderson.org.

Hormones & Cancer
|December 4, 2014
PubMed

Insights

BRAF inhibitors show promise for BRAF-mutant thyroid cancer, with response rates around 30-40%. This review details their use and toxicity management in thyroid cancer patients.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • BRAF inhibitors (vemurafenib, dabrafenib) are effective for BRAF-mutant melanomas but not colorectal cancer.
  • Limited data exists on BRAF inhibitor efficacy in thyroid cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review BRAF inhibitors in thyroid cancer.
  • To discuss associated toxicities and their management.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of BRAF inhibitors in thyroid cancer.
  • Analysis of reported toxicities and management strategies.

Main Results:

  • Initial reports show 30-40% response rates in progressive, radioactive iodine-refractory BRAF-mutant papillary thyroid cancer.
  • BRAF inhibitors have manageable toxicities.

Conclusions:

  • BRAF inhibitors represent a potential treatment for BRAF-mutant thyroid cancer.
  • Understanding and managing toxicities is crucial for effective use.

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