[Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy: a new cause of secondary hypertension]

Rev Prat. 2010 May 20;60(5):644-5, 647-8.
[Article in French]

Abstract

The formation of new vessels (aka neo-angiogenesis) is critical for tumoral progression. Although anti-angiogenic therapies targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway are employed since less than ten years in human patients, they are now a key player in the treatment of advanced stage malignant tumors. An endothelial syndrome, characterized by hypertension and glomerular proteinuria, complicates this treatment in roughly 25% of patients. From a pathophysiological perspective, this may be considered as a preeclampsia-like syndrome. While the most severe forms require the interruption of the regimen, this syndrome is usually mild or moderate, and should be treated by the addition of an anti-hypertensive drug.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / administration & dosage
  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / adverse effects*
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / administration & dosage
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Hypertension / etiology*
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors / antagonists & inhibitors*

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors