Expert: Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D. - 11/12/2008

Question
Hello Dr. Nordquist~
You have helped me in the past, so I am coming back for more help. My father who has a grade 3 astrocytoma, has had chemo, radiation, the cyberknife radiation, more chemo via iv and pill is still not showing improvement. He went to see the chemo doctor today, and they wanted to start another round of chemo again, after he just got out of the hospital for having a blood infection and cellulitis. My mother asked the chemo doctor if he thought this chemo would really work or not, as nothing has worked yet. He said "probably not". He did mention trying a new drug called Aviston. I have been reading that this drug is treated for patients with colon/rectal cancer. How would this drug help my father who has brain cancer? My mother asked if it would work or not, and the doctor said he didn't know. Everyone is different. It could give him some more time and it could do nothing. However, in order for my father to start taking Aviston, they said they would need to perform surgery to insert a port in his chest, so they could just give it to him this way instead of going through his veins. My mother could not decide, so he wants my parents to come back in 2 weeks with their decision. It's either chemo, Aviston, or hospice. My father is in no condition to make a decision. He is not all there anymore. My mother is at a loss, and doesn't know what to do. I think Aviston sounds pretty hopeful to give more time... I read that Aviston increased overall survival by nearly 5 months and has a 26% reduction in the risk of death. This was for colorectal cancer though, so I was just wondering if this would work for my father. Right now they are predicting my father has til about spring time next year to live. We already have to have palative care come to the house to help out with everday duties, bathing, toileting, etc. Is there any hope? God Bless and thank you for taking the time to read this very long email. I appreciate any advice you can offer.

Answer
All these brain tumors are eventually fatal regardless of therapy. I too do not know if this will work. You have to consider it an experimental treatment. At best it probably can only prolong his survival somewhat. Or there may be no effect at all. No cure is at present possible unfortunately.