[Efficacy and tolerance of bevacizumab in non-small cell lung cancer: preliminary report].
BACKGROUND
Bevacizumab is an antiangiogenic drug targeting VEGF. Its interest, in combination with chemotherapy, has been demonstrated in two recent trials in metastatic non-small cell lung cancer and its approval is awaited within few weeks. Due its original mechanism of action, bevacizumab has a very specific safety profile and radiological response patterns.


METHODS
Based upon selected observations reported from patients included in clinical trials and on recent literature, we bring some clue for a better and safer use of bevacizumab.


RESULTS
We report toxicity associated with bevacizumab, especially vascular side-effects and unusual radiological responses.


CONCLUSIONS
Bevacizumab use in NSCLC is associated with some unexpected side effects and responses that worth to be known by pulmonologists. Selections criteria should be rigorously followed.
Mazières
J
J
Service de pneumologie, hôpital Larrey, CHU de Toulouse, chemin de Pouvourville, 31059 Toulouse, France. mazieres.j@chu-toulouse.fr
Dansin
E
E
D000328:Adult; D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D000068258:Bevacizumab; D002289:Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged
D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D000068258:Bevacizumab