Promising early results for people with DNA mismatch repair deficient rectal cancer
https://www.facingourrisk.org/XRAY/dostarlimab-for-rectal-cancer
Full article: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2201445
A small research study tested the usefulness of the immunotherapy drug dostarlimab for treating locally advanced rectal cancer with a biomarker known as “dMMR” (DNA mismatch repair deficient). None of the participants had evidence of cancer six months later; some remained cancer free for up to 25 months). Many participants had Lynch syndrome. The remarkable response to this treatment may allow people with this particular subtype of rectal cancer to avoid potentially life-changing rectal surgery. (Posted 11/14/22) Este artículo está disponible en español.
Questions To Ask Your Health Care Provider
- I have rectal cancer; what are the risks and benefits of different treatment options?
- Do I have a mismatch repair-deficient cancer?
- What treatments, if any, would target my type of cancer?
- Would a checkpoint inhibitor be helpful for my treatment?
- I have been newly diagnosed with rectal cancer; am I be eligible for the dostarlimab trial?
- What clinical trials, if any, are appropriate for me to consider?
- I have a mismatch repair-deficient cancer; should I consider genetic testing for Lynch syndrome or other inherited mutations?
- I have Lynch syndrome; how do I contact a genetic counselor to learn about my risk of other cancers?
- I have Lynch syndrome but do not have cancer; what risk-reducing or surveillance approaches for colorectal cancer should I consider?
About FORCE
FORCE is a national nonprofit organization, established in 1999. Our mission is to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by adult hereditary cancers.