A new approach of anti-PD1 immunotherapy (atezolizumab) combined with bevacizumab (an agent that blocks the growth of new blood vessels therefore limiting the supply of oxygen to the tumor), was tested in a phase 2 clinical trial for patients with malignant peritoneal mesothelioma and data from the study were reported at this year’s ASCO’s virtual meeting.
“This data represents an important step forward in the investigation of potential treatment strategies for patients with peritoneal mesothelioma after progressing on initial treatments. While this trial is admittedly small in absolute numbers, thus limiting our ability to make a definitive assertion, it is comparatively large for this rare disease.”
Dr. Michael Offin, a medical oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and a discussant on this paper
The study — A phase II trial of atezolizumab and bevacizumab in patients with relapsed/refractory and unresectable malignant peritoneal mesothelioma — enrolled 20 patients who previously received treatment of a platinum-based chemotherapy such as cisplatin and pemetrexed (Alimta). The 1-year overall survival was 79% with a 54% progression-free survival at the same 1-year interval. Hypertension and anemia were two most common adverse events.
“The initial efficacy signals showed promise and the safety of the combination was similar to that one would expect with these types of medications. Future study of the role of immunotherapy with or without VEGF inhibitors is warranted in patients with peritoneal mesothelioma.”
Dr. Michael Offin, a medical oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and a discussant on this paper
Unlike pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lung, peritoneal mesothelioma affects the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum). There are approximately 250 cases of peritoneal mesothelioma annually in the United States, and they make up approximately 10-15% of all mesothelioma cases. For this reason, research into peritoneal mesothelioma is just as rare as the disease itself.
The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation is the only 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization working to eradicate mesothelioma and end this national tragedy. Its programs include the funding of promising and peer-reviewed research, education, support and advocacy. The organization strives to bring together thought-leaders in the field to identify the most direct path to a cure.
