Ramucirumab plus FOLFIRI or irinotecan as second-line treatment for patients with gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma: a review and meta-analysis of an emerging option.

Introduction: The aim of this study was to provide a review of the clinical evidence for use of ramucirumab (RAM) plus folinic acid (leucovorin), fluorouracil (5-FU), and irinotecan (FOLFIRI) or irinotecan as second-line treatment in gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma (GEA).

Methods: A systematic and comprehensive search of PubMed was performed to identify phase 2 clinical trials or retrospective studies using RAM plus FOLFIRI or irinotecan in GEA, including abstracts from major congresses, in addition to published manuscripts. An aggregated review and meta-analysis was performed to assess the effectiveness (overall response rate [ORR] as primary outcome) and safety data of RAM plus FOLFIRI or irinotecan.

Anti-EGFR Antibodies in the Management of Advanced Colorectal Cancer.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide, and incidence is rising in younger individuals. Anti-EGFR antibodies, including cetuximab and panitumumab, have been incorporated into standard-of-care practice for patients with advanced disease. Herein, we review the molecular characteristics of these agents and the trials that lead to their approvals.

Second-line treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: Time for more individualized treatment options?

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most frequently diagnosed primary tumor of the liver and is usually detected as advanced disease. It is an aggressive disease that often progresses rapidly when it fails to respond to treatment. As such, patients have limited opportunities to try different subsequent-line treatment regimens.

How May Ramucirumab Help Improve Treatment Outcome for Patients with Gastrointestinal Cancers?

GI cancers are characterized by high recurrence rates and a dismal prognosis and there is an urgent need for new therapeutic approaches. This is a narrative review designed to provide a summary of the efficacy as measured by overall survival, progression free survival, and safety data from phase 3 randomized controlled GI clinical trials of ramucirumab including those from important pre-specified patient subgroups and evidence from real clinical practice worldwide. Quality of life (QOL) is discussed where data are available.