CECOG experts' recommendations on the use of denosumab in the prevention of skeletal-related events in bone metastases of lung cancer

Purpose Skeletal-related events represent a substantial burden for patients with advanced cancer. Randomized, controlled studies suggested superiority of denosumab over zoledronic acid in the prevention of skeletal-related events in metastatic cancer patients, with a favorable safety profile. Experts gathered at the 2012 Skeletal Care Academy in Istanbul to bring forward practical recommendations, based on current evidence, for the use of denosumab in patients with bone metastases of lung cancer. Recommendations Based on current evidence, use of denosumab in lung cancer patients with confirmed bone metastases is recommended. It is important to note that clinical judgment should take into consideration the patient’s general performance status, overall prognosis, and live expectancy. Currently, the adverse event profile reported for denosumab includes hypocalcemia and infrequent occurrence of osteonecrosis of the jaw. Therefore, routine calcium and vitamin D supplementation, along with dental examination prior to denosumab initiation are recommended. There is no evidence for renal function impairment due to denosumab administration. At present, there is no rationale to discourage concomitant use of denosumab and surgery or radiotherapy

Preliminary results of a randomized trial comparing neoadjuvant chemotherapy (cisplatin, epirubicin, bleomycin) plus radiotherapy vs radiotherapy alone in stage IV (>=N2, M0) undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma: A positive effect on progression-free survival

Purpose: Our Phase II trial using bleomycin, epirubicin, and cisplatin (BEG) protocol in the treatment of locoregionally advanced undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma (UCNT) patients has shown encouraging results with high objective response, disease-free survival, and overall survival rates. To establish the value of this BEC regimen as neoadjuvant chemotherapy, we initiated in 1989 a large international Phase III trial. It compares three cycles of EEC followed by radiotherapy to radiotherapy alone