[Angiogenesis-inhibiting drugs--a future therapeutic option]

In order to grow beyond 2-3 mm in size, a primary tumour or metastasis must induce angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels. Tumour capillary content is an independent prognostic factor, usually measured as the mean of three counts in capillary-rich areas of the histological section. Either as single drugs or in combination with other treatment, angiostatic agents probably represent the future of cancer treatment.