Executive Summary:
Several clinical trials have helped in evaluating and treating Adenoid Cystic carcinoma. Patients are encouraged to talk with their doctor regarding the latest research or finding related to Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma. Therefore, several studies have made advancements in determining this. A better understanding of the malignant form of adenocarcinoma has helped develop new, effective treatment strategies.
The latest advances in ACC helps in improving targeted therapy and understanding the molecular mechanism that regulates ACC spread along the nerves by explicitly watching for the NOTCH1 gene mutations. Chemotherapy advances include the combination of new chemo drugs with other medications. The efficacy of the medicines like axitinib (Inlyta) and lenvatinib (Lenvima) is studied and evaluated as anti-angiogenesis therapy.
Latest Research on Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma
Many studies and research are going on to learn about Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma. Doctors are working to devise techniques to prevent ACC and develop new treatment methods to cure the condition, providing a comfortable, quality life. Patients are encouraged to discuss the latest research or finding concerning their Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma Cancer condition with their doctor. Open talks will help patients get more information about effective treatment options.
Several studies have made advances in analyzing the molecular phenotype and pathogenesis of Adenoid cystic carcinoma 1. At its basic level, a better understanding of this rare malignant form of adenocarcinoma will help form new, effective treatment strategies.
Advances in disease diagnosis of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma
Specialists and doctors are developing new strategies and techniques to diagnose ACC better. Improved diagnostic tools and methods will increase the ease of treatment and cure. An accurate diagnosis helps doctors to decide on the best suitable treatment plan. Hence, scientists are attempting to rearrange the MYP gene and the immunophenotyping testing for p40 and p63 2. This rearrangement will help detect whether a tumor growth is adenoid cystic carcinoma or other basal cell carcinomas.
Latest advancements in cancer therapy includes:
Targeted therapy:
Targeted therapy is being extensively studied and tested in several clinical trials to devise a practical treatment approach to deal with ACC. Research are studying the efficiency and usefulness of anti-angiogenesis therapy. Studies also focus on understanding the molecular mechanism that regulates ACC spread along the nerves by explicitly watching for the NOTCH1 gene mutations. Understanding these gene mutations will guide doctors on how the tumour responds to targeted therapy.
Chemotherapy:
Many studies evaluate the efficiency of new chemo drugs or their combination with other medications to treat Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma, especially in controlling the aggressive, recurrent, metastatic ACC.
Anti-angiogenesis/TKIs:
Anti-angiogenesis therapy is a specific type of targeted therapy. Today it is an active area of research and study for treating ACC. The therapy focuses on stopping the generation of new blood vessels or angiogenesis. The goal of anti-angiogenesis is to deprive the tumor of any nutrients. The tumor feeds, grows and spreads by taking the nutrients delivered by the blood vessels. Hence, stopping the blood vessels will starve the tumour. Studies are analyzing how this therapy can help treat people with ACC. Drugs like axitinib (Inlyta) and lenvatinib (Lenvima) are the tyrosine kinase inhibitors studied and evaluated 2.
Supportive/Palliative care:
Palliative or supportive care is essential for cancer treatment and cure. Many types of research and clinical trials are underway to find better methods to help, manage and relieve symptoms and side effects of ACC treatments. Palliative care focuses on giving patients services to improve the quality and comfort of their life.
References
- 1.Dillon PM, Chakraborty S, Moskaluk CA, Joshi PJ, Thomas CY. Adenoid cystic carcinoma: A review of recent advances, molecular targets, and clinical trials. Head Neck. Published online June 16, 2015:620-627. doi:10.1002/hed.23925
- 2.Di Villeneuve L, Souza IL, Tolentino FDS, Ferrarotto R, Schvartsman G. Salivary Gland Carcinoma: Novel Targets to Overcome Treatment Resistance in Advanced Disease. Front Oncol. Published online October 22, 2020. doi:10.3389/fonc.2020.580141