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Updated: Jun 29, 2025
The Clinical Application of Tumor Treating Fields Therapy in Glioblastoma
Published on: April 16, 2019
State of the neoadjuvant therapy for glioblastoma multiforme-Where do we stand?
Naeim Nabian1,2, Reza Ghalehtaki1,2, Mehdi Zeinalizadeh3
1Radiation Oncology Research Center, Cancer Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract:
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common malignant primary brain tumor in adults. Despite several investigations in this field, maximal safe resection followed by chemoradiotherapy and adjuvant temozolomide with or without tumor-treating fields remains the standard of care with poor survival outcomes. Many endeavors have failed to make a dramatic change in the outcomes of GBM patients. This study aimed to review the available strategies for newly diagnosed GBM in the neoadjuvant setting, which have been mainly neglected in contrast to other solid tumors.
Insights
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a common brain cancer with poor survival. This review examines neoadjuvant (pre-surgery) treatment strategies for newly diagnosed GBM, an area often overlooked in cancer research.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Brain Tumor Research
- Malignant Glioma Studies
Background:
- Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most prevalent adult primary malignant brain tumor.
- Current standard care (surgery, chemoradiotherapy, temozolomide) offers limited survival benefits for GBM patients.
- Despite extensive research, significant improvements in GBM patient outcomes remain elusive.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing neoadjuvant treatment strategies for newly diagnosed Glioblastoma multiforme.
- To highlight the under-investigated potential of neoadjuvant approaches in GBM management.
- To provide insights into alternative therapeutic settings for GBM, contrasting with other solid tumors.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of studies on neoadjuvant therapies for newly diagnosed GBM.
- Analysis of treatment protocols and outcomes reported in relevant clinical trials and research papers.
- Comparative assessment of neoadjuvant strategies versus standard-of-care in GBM.
Main Results:
- The neoadjuvant setting for GBM is significantly less explored compared to adjuvant or primary treatment protocols.
- Limited data exists on the efficacy and safety of pre-operative therapies specifically designed for newly diagnosed GBM.
- Existing research suggests potential benefits of neoadjuvant approaches in other solid tumors, warranting investigation in GBM.
Conclusions:
- Neoadjuvant therapy represents an under-explored but potentially promising avenue for improving Glioblastoma multiforme treatment.
- Further research and clinical trials are crucial to establish effective neoadjuvant strategies for newly diagnosed GBM.
- Investigating neoadjuvant approaches could offer new hope and improve outcomes for patients with this aggressive brain tumor.
