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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.
Abstract:
The US Food and Drug Administration-approved BRAF inhibitors, vemurafenib and dabrafenib, have demonstrated superior efficacy in patients with BRAF-mutant melanomas but have limited efficacy in BRAF-mutant colorectal cancer. Little is known at this time regarding BRAF inhibitors in thyroid cancer. Initial reports in patients with progressive, radioactive iodine-refractory BRAF-mutant papillary thyroid cancer suggest response rates of approximately 30-40%. In this review, we discuss BRAF inhibitors in the context of thyroid cancer, the toxicities associated with BRAF inhibitors, and the suggested management of those toxicities. The management of vemurafenib and dabrafenib toxicities is applicable across all tumor types and may serve as a practical guide to their use.
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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