ID #315 The Impact of Bevacizumab on Quality of Life in Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) Patients: A Systematic Review

Background

Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) is a highly aggressive pediatric brain tumor, typically resistant to treatment. Despite advancements in therapeutic approaches like radiation, prognosis remains poor. Bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), has shown potential in alleviating tumor-related symptoms but its effect on the quality of life (QoL) of DIPG patients is still uncertain.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and EBSCOhost, examining studies published in the last ten years. The inclusion criteria focused on studies assessing the impact of Bevacizumab on QoL for children with DIPG. Studies using quality of life assessment tools such as the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) were included.

Results

Five studies were included in the review, and the findings suggested temporary improvements in cognitive and physical functioning during treatment with Bevacizumab. Common side effects included lymphopenia and thrombocytopenia. However, long-term survival outcomes remained limited, with median survival ranging from 13.8 to 14 months.

Conclusion

Bevacizumab may provide short-term symptomatic relief in DIPG patients, particularly in cognitive and physical domains, but its limited impact on long-term survival and overall QoL highlights the need for further research into targeted therapies and personalized treatments. Future studies should focus on improving survival outcomes and refining combination therapies to enhance patient well-being.

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