Avastin in Meningioma and in Neurofibromatosis
Meningiomas are technically not brain cancers but rather arise from the lining of the brain, the meninges. Coming form this very vascular areas, they are often highly vascularized tumors and it is reasonable to consider antiangiogenic(Anti-blood vessel) therapy for meningioma in an attempt to cut off their blood supply. In particular, malignant meningiomas produce high levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and Avastin blocks this growth factor. Meningiomas in neurofibromatosis often occur together which schwanomas and other similar tumors. Unfortunately, the literature evidence currently consists only of case report supporting this approach. There are ongoing Phase II trial that include meningiomas as well as schwannomas and other neurofibromatosis related tumors. Avastin treatment is therefore investigational at this time.
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