Smoothened Receptor Inhibitor Vismodegib for the Treatment of Basal Cell Carcinoma: A Retrospective Analysis of Efficacy and Side Effects

May 2019 in “ Journal of dermatological treatment ”

András Bánvölgyi, Pálma Anker, Kende Lőrincz, Norbert Kiss, Dalma Márton, Luca Fésűs, Nóra Gyöngyösi, Norbert Wikonkál

vismodegib basal cell carcinoma BCC alopecia therapy resistance muscle cramps dysgeusia nausea hair loss

Studysummary This study found that vismodegib was effective in treating basal cell carcinoma, achieving complete remission in some patients; however, significant side effects often required careful management to prevent therapy suspension, which can lead to resistance.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

This retrospective analysis of 11 patients treated with vismodegib for basal cell carcinoma (BCC) found that the drug was effective, with complete remission in three cases and good responses in others. However, side effects such as muscle cramps, dysgeusia, nausea, and alopecia were common and severe, leading to treatment suspension in some cases. Notably, therapy resistance was observed upon re-administration after suspension in laBCC patients, but not in NBCCS patients. The study highlighted the importance of managing side effects to prevent therapy resistance.

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Research cited in this study

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research Managing Adverse Events Associated with Vismodegib in the Treatment of Basal Cell Carcinoma

28 citations , September 2016 in “Future oncology”

In this study, a UK expert panel discussed strategies for managing common side effects of vismodegib, a hedgehog pathway inhibitor used for advanced basal cell carcinoma, concluding that adverse events like taste disturbances and muscle cramps can be effectively managed to optimize treatment duration.

research Characterization and Management of Hedgehog Pathway Inhibitor-Related Adverse Events in Patients With Advanced Basal Cell Carcinoma

127 citations , August 2016 in “The oncologist”

This paper reviews adverse events related to hedgehog pathway inhibitors in advanced basal cell carcinoma patients, reporting no new clinical results but aiming to inform healthcare professionals for improved patient care.

research Modulation of Hair Growth with Small Molecule Agonists of the Hedgehog Signaling Pathway

113 citations , September 2005 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology”

This study found that a topical hedgehog agonist can stimulate hair growth by promoting the transition from the resting to growth phase of the hair cycle in adult mouse skin.