Neoadjuvant dabrafenib and trametinib for functional organ preservation in recurrent BRAF V600E-mutated papillary thyroid cancer

Oral Oncol. 2023 Dec:147:106625. doi: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2023.106625. Epub 2023 Nov 8.

Abstract

Objectives: To describe the first reported use of neoadjuvant dabrafenib and trametinib specifically to permit organ conservation surgery in locally advanced recurrent differentiated thyroid carcinoma.

Patients and methods: A patient presented with locally recurrent, radioiodide-resistant DTC with a BRAF V600E mutation invading the laryngotrachea. Definitive treatment would require a total laryngectomy. She was offered neoadjuvant dabrafenib and trametinib prior to surgery.

Results: A significant radiographic response permitted partial laryngectomy, enabling preservation of voice, early resumption of oral feeding, and avoidance of permanent tracheostomy. At 9 months, she remained free of disease.

Conclusion: Neoadjuvant tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment prior to definitive surgery for locally-invasive recurrent DTC is a potential approach that may limit the degree of surgery and associated morbidity.

Keywords: Advanced thyroid cancer; BRAF; Dabrafenib; Differentiated thyroid carcinoma; Neoadjuvant kinase inhibitor; Organ conservation; Papillary thyroid carcinoma; Partial laryngectomy; Trametinib.

Publication types

  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mutation
  • Neoadjuvant Therapy
  • Organ Preservation
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins B-raf* / genetics
  • Pyridones / pharmacology
  • Pyridones / therapeutic use
  • Thyroid Cancer, Papillary / drug therapy
  • Thyroid Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Thyroid Neoplasms* / genetics

Substances

  • dabrafenib
  • trametinib
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins B-raf
  • Pyridones
  • BRAF protein, human