Onkologie. 2009:3(5):308-310

Bisphosphonates in the lung cancer patients with bone metastases

MUDr. Gabriela Krákorová Ph.D

Klinika nemocí plicních a tuberkulózy, FN Plzeň

Bone metastases in lung cancer are present in 30–60 % cases. Bone metastases are accompanied with the risk of skeletal related events

(SRE), significantly decreasing survival and quality of life (mobility, pain, social independence). Zolendronic acid is the only one biphosphonate

recommended for lung cancer patients with bone metastases. The panel of European experts 2009 suggests early screening of

the bone metastases at the time of diagnosis to assess the symptomatic and reveal asymptomatic bone metastases (using PET or bone

scan). Biphosphonate is recommended in the therapy of metastases to prevent the development of other metastases to prevent and

delay the SRE and to reduce bone pain. Prior to initiation of the therapy, a stomathological examination should be done. The length of

the therapy should be as long as possible considering the adverse events. Combination of bisphosphonates and chemotherapy is well

tolerated; it is necessary to adhere to the safety profile of the drugs.

Keywords: lung cancer, skeletal event, bisphosphonate.

Published: December 1, 2009  Show citation