Bevacizumab in the treatment of high-grade gliomas: an overview

Angiogenesis is a process that is integral to the pathogenesis of high-grade gliomas. Bevacizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody against vascular endothelial growth factor has emerged as an important therapeutic agent. Data from clinical trials in both recurrent and newly-diagnosed gliomas have shown improved radiological responses and quality of life with acceptable morbidity. However, an improvement in overall survival has not yet been seen and there are concerns on possible change in the pattern of relapse following therapy. Several unanswered questions remain including the dose, timing and sequencing that warrant further research.