Profile of bevacizumab and its potential in the treatment of cervical cancer

Blocking angiogenesis is an effective antitumor strategy proven in many disease sites. Anti-angiogenic therapies are fulfilling the promise of improved outcomes in cervical cancer as demonstrated in several recent trials. With its overall survival improvement in metastatic or recurrent cervical cancer, a frame shift in the management of these patients has occurred. The US Food and Drug Administration approval of bevacizumab in advanced cervical cancer has led to national guidelines, including the US National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines for cervical cancer, including systemic regimens containing bevacizumab as first line combination therapy. Future trials will build on this anti-angiogenesis backbone via targeting additional novel pathways and potentially leading to further improved outcomes in cervical cancer.