Chapter 34 - Case Study of Combined Gene and Radiation Therapy as an Approach in the Treatment of Cancer

Abstract

This chapter discusses the case study of combined gene and radiation therapy as an approach in the treatment of cancer. Combined gene therapy and radiation therapy is a novel approach in the armament against cancer. This radio/gene therapy combination may create a new spatial cooperation whereby two local treatment modalities, radiotherapy and in situ gene therapy, can lead to improved local and systemic control. Preclinical data have demonstrated the enhanced antitumor effects of this combined approach in local tumor control, prolongation of survival, and systemic control. This combined radio/gene therapy has now entered clinical phase in prostate cancer. The current approach adds a novel therapy to the standard-of-care therapy. These treatment modalities have very distinct spectra of toxicity profiles. This combined approach enhances the cancer cure without an increase in treatment-related toxicity. Early clinical results have shown the safety of this approach.