Bisphosphonates as anticancer drugs

Article Abstract:

Drugs called bisphosphonates appear to have an anti-tumor effect although the exact mechanism is not clear. These drugs are commonly used to prevent osteoporosis, but in 1996 the FDA approved the use of these drugs in patients with breast cancer that metastasizes to bone. Two 1998 studies found that the bisphosphonate drug clodronate reduces the tumor burden in soft tissue as well as bone. Bisphosphonates are know to cause a form of cell death called apoptosis. If the cells that die are cells that break down bone, this could explain their anti-metastatic effect. They may also affect tumor cells in other ways.

Physiological aspects, Antineoplastic agents, Diphosphonates

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Prophylactic cranial irradiation and small-cell lung cancer

Article Abstract:

Patients with small-cell lung cancer who go into remission after chemotherapy and radiation treatment may benefit from radiation treatment to the head. Small-cell lung cancer often spreads, or metastasizes, to the brain. As patients live longer due to better treatments, the risk for brain metastasis increases. A 1999 study showed that radiation therapy to the head reduced the rate of brain metastasis by 25% and increased the survival rate at three years by 5%. However, doctors need to determine the best dose, the area to be irradiated and the timing of the treatment.

Development and progression, Brain cancer, Lung cancer, Small cell, Small cell lung cancer

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Non-small-cell lung cancer -- stalemate or progress?

Article Abstract:

Chemotherapy may not benefit all patients with non-small-cell lung cancer. This type of lung cancer has a poor prognosis, so the best option is to prevent it in the first place. Smokers should consider quitting, and innovative tests could detect tumors in the early stages when they are most curable.

Chemotherapy, Lung cancer, Non-small cell, Non-small cell lung cancer

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