Current oncology reports
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Statistical developments over the past several years are described in this review. Efforts in phase I studies have focused on efficient estimation of maximum tolerated dose. ⋯ However, design innovations come with costs, including possible increased risk of incorrect conclusions. Other recent challenging statistical developments in clinical trials relate to use of complementary outcomes such as quality of life and to associated biologic questions, including the emergence of the field of genomics.
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Neurologic complications of cancer therapy are an increasingly important concern in patient management. Improvements in systemic therapies and increasing use of local treatments to target such specific tumor sites as brain or leptomeningeal metastases have resulted in increased incidence of treatment toxicity in the central nervous system (CNS). ⋯ The three most common of these, alterations in cognition and consciousness, seizures, and cerebellar dysfunction, are discussed. Prompt recognition of these problems and their causes will have an impact on patient care in all areas of oncology.