Neoadjuvant Bevacizumab and Chemoradiotherapy for Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer: Long-Term Outcomes of a Multicentre Study.
Ilaria Prata, Iris D Nagtegaal, Geke Hospers et al.
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In 30 seconds
This phase II multicenter study evaluated the safety and efficacy of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy combined with bevacizumab in 35 patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. The study found a pathological complete response in 15% of patients, with 10-year disease-free and overall survival rates both at 60%. However, the study was terminated due to high toxicity failures.
Key findings
- Pathological complete response was observed in 4 patients, totaling 15%.
- Ten-year incidence of locoregional recurrences was 6% (95% CI, 0%-13%).
- Ten-year incidence of distant metastases was 31% (95% CI, 16%-47%).
- Both disease-free survival and overall survival rates were 60% (95% CI, 44%-76%).
Why it matters
The study highlights the potential of combining targeted therapies like bevacizumab with standard neoadjuvant treatments for locally advanced rectal cancer, showing promising long-term survival outcomes despite significant toxicity concerns.
What to keep in mind
The study was terminated early due to high toxicity failures, limiting the robustness of the findings.