Top stories in hematology/oncology: FDA approves Opdivo for metastatic small cell lung cancer, MD Anderson retains top cancer hospital ranking

Among the top stories in hematology/oncology this week are FDA approvals of treatments for metastatic small cell lung cancer and unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma, and how a modified chemotherapy regimen displayed potential for patients with advanced anal squamous cell carcinoma.

Other top stories include The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center staying atop U.S. News & World Report’s cancer hospital rankings and details regarding a PD-1 blockade allowing significant advances in treating advanced melanoma. – by Janel Miller

FDA approves Opdivo for metastatic small cell lung cancer

The FDA approved nivolumab for the treatment of patients with metastatic small cell lung cancer who progressed after platinum-based chemotherapy and at least one other line of therapy. Read more.

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center ranked best cancer hospital in country

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center has retained its distinction as the No. 1 cancer hospital in the country. MD Anderson tops U.S. News & World Report’s 2018-2019 Best Hospitals rankings for cancer care for the fourth straight year. Read more.

PD-1 blockade provides ‘dramatic advance’ for the treatment of advanced melanoma

Immunotherapy agents — including ipilimumab, nivolumab and pembrolizumab — have changed the landscape of the treatment of advanced melanoma, resulting in 3-year survival rates of up to 58%. Read more.

Modified chemotherapy regimen shows promise for advanced squamous cell carcinoma

A modified combination of docetaxel, cisplatin and fluorouracil conferred a long-lasting response and appeared well tolerated among patients with advanced anal squamous cell carcinoma, according to findings from a single-arm, multicenter, phase 2 study. Read more.

FDA approves Lenvima for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma

The FDA approved lenvatinib capsules for the first-line treatment of patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. Read more.