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Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors for the Elderly.

TitleTyrosine Kinase Inhibitors for the Elderly.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2016
AuthorsHohenforst-Schmidt, W., Zarogoulidis P., Steinheimer M., Benhassen N., Tsiouda T., Baka S., Yarmus L., Stratakos G., Organtzis J., Pataka A., Tsakiridis K., Karapantzos I., Karapantzou C., Darwiche K., Zissimopoulos A., Pitsiou G., Zarogoulidis K., Man Y-G., & Rittger H.
JournalJ Cancer
Volume7
Issue6
Pagination687-93
Date Published2016
ISSN1837-9664
Abstract

Until few years ago non-specific cytotoxic agents were considered the tip of the arrow as first line treatment for lung cancer. However; age > 75 was considered a major drawback for this kind of therapy. Few exceptions were made by doctors based on the performance status of the patient. The side effects of these agents are still severe for several patients. In the recent years further investigation of the cancer genome has led to targeted therapies. There have been numerous publications regarding novel agents such as; erlotinib, gefitinib and afatinib. In specific populations these agents have demonstrated higher efficiency and this observation is explained by the overexpression of the EGFR pathway in these populations. We suggest that TKIs should administered in the elderly, and with the word elderly we propose the age of 75. The treating medical doctor has to evaluate the performance status of a patient and decide the best treatment in several cases indifferent of the age. TKIs in most studies presented safety and efficiency and of course dose modification should be made when necessary. Comorbidities should be considered in any case especially in this group of patients and the treating physician should act accordingly.

DOI10.7150/jca.14819
Alternate JournalJ Cancer
PubMed ID27076850
PubMed Central IDPMC4829555

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