In
the comprehensive treatment of lung cancer, anti-angiogenic therapy is an
indispensable and important approach that has helped many patients improve
their conditions. However, the mechanism of action of this therapy, potential
adverse reactions, and its suitability for patients with special conditions
such as bleeding have always been the focus of attention when formulating
clinical treatment plans. Clarifying these key issues can help both doctors and
patients use this therapeutic "weapon" more safely and precisely.
We
have specially invited Professor Yang Nong, a distinguished expert from Hainan
Cancer Hospital, to analyze the core points of anti-angiogenic therapy for us
in a simple and profound way, leveraging his rich clinical experience.
Qustions & Answers
Q: What is anti-angiogenic therapy? How does it combat cancer cells?
Professor Yang Nong: Anti-angiogenic therapy is one of the important means for the treatment of malignant tumors.
It is often said, "Before soldiers and horses move, provisions must go ahead." Similarly, the growth and proliferation of cancer cells cannot be separated from adequate nutritional supply. In order to obtain nutrients, a large number of new blood vessels will proliferate frantically around the tumor - but these vessels are chaotic and structurally abnormal, with significant differences from normal blood vessels. Anti-angiogenic therapy is like a "road demolition crew," precisely targeting the key factor VEGF for vascular growth, and by blocking the formation of these abnormal new blood vessels, it cuts off the "provisions" supply of cancer cells from the root.
Qustions & Answer
Q: What are the common adverse reactions of anti-angiogenic targeted drugs?
Professor Yang Nong: The most common adverse reactions to anti-angiogenic drugs are bleeding-related symptoms, such as gingival bleeding, epistaxis, and subcutaneous hemorrhage. If these bleeding conditions occur frequently or the amount of bleeding is significant, it is necessary to consider reducing the dosage or even discontinuing the medication.
In addition, there are some relatively severe adverse reactions, such as proteinuria, congestive heart failure, as well as intestinal obstruction and perforation. The risk of such severe adverse reactions needs to be prevented and controlled in advance to avoid exacerbation of the condition.
Qustions & Answer
Q: Can patients with lung cancer who have bleeding symptoms still undergo anti-angiogenic therapy?
Bleeding is the most common adverse reaction of this type of medication, with nosebleeds and gum bleeding being relatively frequent. If such bleeding is infrequent and the amount of blood is not large, there is usually no need for excessive concern.
However, if hemoptysis occurs, especially in patients with tumor lesions close to major blood vessels, extra vigilance is required. Any new onset of blood in sputum, or a significant increase in the amount of blood in already bloody sputum, must be taken seriously.
Generally speaking, if the amount of blood in the daily sputum does not exceed half a tablespoon, anti-angiogenic drugs can be continued to be used under strict monitoring.
Expert Introduction
Yang Nong, Chief Physician, Doctoral Supervisor
Long-term employed experts of Hainan Cancer Hospital and Hainan Chengmei Hospital
He currently serves as Vice President of the Second People's Hospital of Hunan Province, leader of the oncology department, and head of the "Yang Nong Famous Doctor Clinic" / "Yang Nong Famous Doctor Expert Team Clinic". He is also a chief expert of the National Major Scientific and Technological Special Project, a member of the Lung Cancer Special Committee of the National Tumor Quality Control Center, the director of the Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Lung Cancer, and the director of the Hunan Provincial Respiratory Tumor Clinical Medical Research Center. He has been dedicated to precision targeted therapy for lung cancer and gastrointestinal tumors, as well as clinical, scientific research, and teaching work related to difficult, recurrent, and drug-resistant cases for nearly 30 years.
He has been honored with the title of "Outstanding Exemplar of National Famous Doctors" at the 6th session, and has been recommended as "Annual Excellent Doctor" by patients across the country for eight consecutive years, as well as being awarded the title of "First Brain Doctor, Famous Doctor". He has authored national guidelines, boasts over 500,000 followers across the internet, and has achieved over 120 million views in cancer prevention and treatment science popularization.
[Medical expertise]
Specialties: Precision treatment of lung cancer, breakthroughs in difficult-to-treat, recurrent, drug-resistant, and brain-metastatic cases; individualized and precise treatment of brain metastases from lung cancer; early diagnosis of lung nodules and lung cancer; personalized and comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of pan-solid tumors; clinical trials of the latest immunotherapy/targeted therapy drugs.
With nearly 30 years of experience in precision immunotherapy for lung cancer, he has led nearly 400 phase I-III clinical trials of new anticancer drugs (including national Class 1 new drugs), and is particularly skilled in treating complex cases such as refractory, recurrent, and drug-resistant conditions, as well as brain metastases.
At the same time, he is proficient in the comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of multiple cancer types, individualized treatment, and interdisciplinary collaboration across various solid tumors (such as stomach, intestine, brain, etc.).
[Visit information]
1. Clinic Hours and Location
January 10th, 8:00-12:00
The sixth consultation area of Hainan Cancer Hospital
2. [Appointment registration]
Follow the official account of Hainan Cancer Hospital for "appointment registration"
3. Health consultation
13876807106
[Friendly Reminder]
To facilitate the expert in understanding your condition as soon as possible, please bring along:
1. ID card, medical insurance card, mobile phone
2. Accompany immediate family members (with decision-making authority)
3. Arrange the relevant examinations you have undergone in chronological order
4. Paper medical records of previous visits
5. Surgical case biopsy: wax block or 20-30 white slides
6. Pathological diagnosis report
7. Inpatient medical records and notes
8. Recent relevant examinations
9. The patient's current treatment plan
10. The most pressing questions I want to inquire about