New findings reveal that the oral drug Axitinib may effectively reduce tumor size and improve hearing in patients suffering from NF2-related vestibular schwannoma, offering a potential alternative to existing treatments.
Effective Tumor Reduction Observed
In a recent study, twelve patients with NF2-related schwannomatosis underwent Axitinib treatment. Conducted over 12 cycles, the therapy targeted key receptors involved in tumor growth. Notably, two patients experienced a significant decrease in tumor volume exceeding the 20% threshold, with the most substantial reduction reaching nearly 54% after nine cycles. These results suggest that Axitinib can effectively reduce tumor size in a subset of patients.
Hearing Improvement and Quality of Life Enhancements
Beyond tumor reduction, the study reported three instances of hearing improvement, one of which was maintained throughout the treatment period. Quality of life assessments indicated that patients either maintained or experienced improvements in their daily living standards during Axitinib therapy.
- Axitinib demonstrated significant tumor shrinkage in approximately 20% of patients.
- Hearing improvements, though limited, were sustainably achieved in select cases.
- All participants reported manageable side effects, with hypertension being the most severe.
- Oral administration of Axitinib offers a convenient treatment option compared to intravenous therapies.
The study underscores Axitinib’s potential as a viable treatment for NF2-related vestibular schwannoma, particularly due to its ability to target multiple receptors involved in tumor progression. While the sample size was small, the positive responses in tumor size and hearing function highlight the drug’s therapeutic promise.
Given the manageable side effect profile, Axitinib presents an attractive option for patients seeking oral medication over traditional intravenous therapies like bevacizumab. However, the balance between efficacy and safety must be carefully considered, especially when comparing long-term outcomes and quality of life enhancements.
Extensive research and larger clinical trials are essential to fully establish Axitinib’s role in treating vestibular schwannomas associated with NF2. Future studies should focus on long-term efficacy, optimal dosing strategies, and comparative effectiveness against existing treatments to determine the best therapeutic approach for patients.
Axitinib offers a promising addition to the therapeutic arsenal against NF2-related vestibular schwannoma, potentially enhancing patient outcomes through effective tumor reduction and improved hearing. Its oral administration could improve patient compliance and quality of life, making it a noteworthy option for further exploration in clinical settings.
This article has been prepared with the assistance of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more details, please refer to our Terms and Conditions. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author.
