Oral VEGFR-TKIs use in patients with cancer linked to aneurysm and artery dissection

Further analysis using Cox regression modeling indicated a significantly higher risk of artery dissection associated with VEGFR-TKI use compared to the comparator group receiving capecitabine. The hazard ratio (HR) for artery dissection occurrence was reported as 1.48 (95% CI, 1.08-2.02) for the VEGFR-TKI group compared to the capecitabine group.

Interestingly, subgroup analyses revealed even higher HRs among specific demographics and comorbidities. Females exhibited an HR of 2.08 (95% CI, 1.26-3.42), older adults (aged ≥65 years) had an HR of 1.42 (95% CI, 1.01-1.99), and patients with dyslipidemia showed an HR of 1.58 (95% CI, 1.11-2.24).

The lead author of the study, emphasized the importance of these findings in understanding the vascular toxicity linked to VEGFR-TKI treatments. He stressed that these results could contribute significantly to mitigating the socioeconomic burden of adverse events associated with this class of medications.

While these findings are crucial for the medical community, further investigations and cautious monitoring of patients undergoing VEGFR-TKI treatments are warranted to better comprehend and manage these potential risks.

Reference:

Kang, S., Yeon, B., Kim, M.-S., Yoo, M., Kim, B., & Yu, Y. M. Aneurysm and artery dissection after oral VEGFR-TKI use in adults with cancer. JAMA Network Open,2023;6(11):e2345977. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.45977