Approved Treatments for Patients with Recurrent High-grade Gliomas

Abstract

Objectives: To review the existing glioma literature and National Comprehensive Cancer Network current standard-of care guidelines for recurrent high-grade glioma, which includes surgery, radiation, and systemic therapies.

Data sources: PubMed, MedlinePlus, Science Direct, National Comprehensive Cancer Network, and Google Scholar were searched. Key words for databases were high-grade glioma, glioblastoma, recurrent, surgery, radiation, and systemic therapy.

Conclusion: Approved treatments for patients with recurrent high-grade glioma are limited and do not significantly impact progression-free survival rates, nor do they offer long-term benefit in symptom improvement or quality of life. Particular consideration for progression versus pseudoprogression should be evaluated before pursuing recurrent therapies.

Implications for nursing practice: Given the limited availability of standard-of-care treatments, clinical trials should be prioritized to maximize future treatment options. Individual performance status, genetic and molecular profiles, as well as goals of care and quality of life are important considerations in the context of treatment plans.

Keywords: high-grade glioma; radiation; recurrent therapy; surgery; systemic therapy.