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Targeted Treatment of Esophagogastric Cancer

Hans-Georg Kopp1, Ralf-Dieter Hofheinz

  • 1Department of Oncology and Hematology, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany.

Oncology Research and Treatment
|November 28, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Targeted therapies for esophagogastric junction (EGJ) and stomach cancer are limited, though HER2-positive patients can receive trastuzumab and ramucirumab shows efficacy. This review covers approved treatments and emerging targets for EGJ/gastric adenocarcinoma.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • Esophagogastric junction (EGJ) and gastric adenocarcinoma represent significant global cancer burdens.
  • Despite advances in understanding the mutational landscape, targeted treatment options remain limited, with many phase III trials yielding negative outcomes.
  • Current approved targeted therapy is restricted to HER2-positive metastatic disease.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of currently approved targeted treatments for locally advanced/resectable and unresectable/metastatic EGJ/gastric adenocarcinoma.
  • To summarize the key clinical studies supporting these approved therapies.
  • To highlight potential future therapeutic targets currently under investigation.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of clinical trial data for approved targeted agents in EGJ/gastric adenocarcinoma.
  • Analysis of efficacy and safety data for therapies such as trastuzumab and ramucirumab.
  • Exploration of emerging research on novel therapeutic targets.

Main Results:

  • Trastuzumab is approved for HER2-positive metastatic EGJ/gastric adenocarcinoma in combination with chemotherapy.
  • Ramucirumab demonstrates activity as a monotherapy and in combination with paclitaxel.
  • Several other potential targets are under active investigation for future therapeutic development.

Conclusions:

  • The therapeutic landscape for EGJ/gastric adenocarcinoma is evolving, with a focus on targeted therapies.
  • Approved agents like trastuzumab and ramucirumab offer treatment options for specific patient subsets.
  • Ongoing research into novel targets holds promise for improving outcomes in this challenging cancer.

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