Abstract
BACKGROUND
Combination metronomic anti-angiogenic and intraventricular therapy incorporates a customized administration of a five-drug oral antiangiogenic regimen with intravenous bevacizumab and intraventricular chemotherapy and is an effective treatment regimen for children with recurrent central nervous system embryonal tumors. This treatment can be administered while maintaining quality of life and avoiding severe side effects through personalized therapy schedules; however, dosing modifications, available dosage formulations, and complexity of medication administration creates challenges for families and clinical staff.
METHODS
A retrospective chart review was completed on 11 patients who received this treatment with various combinations of oral medications (thalidomide, etoposide, cyclophosphamide, celecoxib, and fenofibrate), intravenous (IV) medication (bevacizumab), and intraventricular chemotherapy (cytarabine, etoposide, and topotecan). We implemented successful nursing interventions, family education, variable scheduling options, dosage formulation selections, and innovative oral and intraventricular administration techniques.
RESULTS
Patients were able to successfully receive therapy for an average of 14 months and no patient came off for toxicity. Treatment was generally well-tolerated, with most toxicities being hematologic or gastrointestinal in nature.
CONCLUSION
Education, innovative dosing schedules, recognition of potential side effects, and medication administration allow for successful administration of this complex therapy.