[Inhaled chemotherapy - Part 2: Clinical practice and potential applications]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pharmacology
• Respiratory Medicine

Background:

• Lung tumors are a leading cause of cancer deaths globally, with survival rates remaining low despite advances in targeted therapies and immunotherapies.
• Current treatment modalities for lung cancer have limitations, necessitating exploration of novel therapeutic approaches to improve patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review clinical studies on inhaled chemotherapy for lung tumors.
• To present the advantages, limitations, and technical challenges associated with inhaled chemotherapy for lung cancer.
• To discuss potential applications and indications for this therapeutic strategy.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of clinical studies investigating inhaled chemotherapy in lung tumor treatment.
• Analysis of pharmacokinetic data, therapeutic index, and clinical outcomes.
• Identification and evaluation of technical aspects related to drug administration and aerosol propagation.

Main Results:

• Inhaled chemotherapy demonstrates potential for improved pharmacokinetic ratios and therapeutic indices in lung cancer treatment.
• Key limitations include contraindications and potential pulmonary side effects.
• Technical challenges in administration, such as device efficacy and healthcare professional exposure, are significant.

Conclusions:

• Inhaled chemotherapy presents a viable strategy to intensify current lung cancer therapeutic regimens.
• Overcoming administration challenges and managing side effects are crucial for successful clinical implementation.
• Further research and development are needed to optimize inhaled chemotherapy delivery and expand its indications for lung tumors.