Efficacy and tolerance of bevacizumab in non-small cell lung cancer: Preliminary report

Introduction. - 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. Method. - 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. Conclusion. - 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. (C) 2008 Elsevier Masson SAS. Tous droits reserves.