Nimotuzumab in Management of Brain Stem Glioma: A Case Report

Abstract

Brainstem glioma is rare tumour in adults accounting for 1% - 2% of intracranial gliomas. In this case study, a 28-year-old female diagnosed with BG, and lesions were observed in the pons and medulla region of the brain stem. She was initially treated with radiotherapy (54 Gy in 30 fractions for 6 weeks) but no change in her clinical condition and size of tumor was observed. Temozolomide (250 mg/daily for 5 days) was prescribed as first line chemotherapy. After completion of three cycles of Temozolomide, patient presented with diplopia and MRI showed increase in the size of lesions. After unsatisfactory response to radiation and chemotherapy, the patient was treated with Nimotuzumab therapy. MRI scan demonstrated the reduction of lesion size after 8 cycles of Nimotuzumab (200 mg/week). This treatment continued for another 8 cycles and the MRI scan of patients showed a significant reduction in lesion size. Nimotuzumab was found to be an effective and safe treatment option for brainstem glioma patient who was resistant to radiotherapy and chemotherapy.