Recombined humanized endostatin (Endostar) intravenous infusion in the treatment of refractory nasopharyngeal carcinoma: Three case reports

Abstract

Rationale:Refractory nasopharyngeal carcinoma is challenging to treat and at present there is no standard treatment or any good choice.Patient concerns:Although the three patients in our case reports had already underwent multiple treatments before, they still suffered from disease recurrence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma.Diagnosis:They were diagnosed as refractory nasopharyngeal carcinoma.Interventions:A continuous infusion of Endostar, an antiangiogenic agent, combined with chemotherapy and radiation therapy was given to treat the patients.Outcomes:Patients showed complete or partial response to the combined therapy as evidenced by regression of tumors and decrease in plasma Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA load.Lessons:Continuous infusions of Endostar in combination with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy showed promising efficacy and safety. The combination therapy indicates a new approach to treat refractory nasopharyngeal carcinoma.