April 12, 2012— Oncologists Dr. Cheryl Jones, Dr. Mansoor Saleh, and James Gilmore, PharmD, of Georgia Cancer Specialists (GCS)—a Top 10 private cancer practice in the U.S.— published a research article in the current issue of the journal Community Oncology.
Addressing the subject of the therapeutic optimization of aromatase inhibitor–associated arthralgia, the authors said that third-generation aromatase inhibitors(AIs) used in the treatment of hormone-responsive breast cancer are associated with arthralgia, which is the most common reason for treatment discontinuation.
The review characterizes the observed arthralgia and describes its variable definitions in key clinical trials; its typical onset and duration; symptom management strategies; and symptom resolution. The symptomatic manifestations of AI-associated arthralgia are highly variable, with typical onset occurring two to six months after treatment initiation.
To improve standardization of care as well as patient quality of life, the authors propose a diagnostic algorithm for the management of patients who receive AIs and who develop arthralgia or worsening symptoms from preexisting joint pain.
The authors conclude that although arthralgia is often associated with AI therapy, prompt diagnosis and management of musculoskeletal symptoms may ensure continued AI treatment and improve quality of life.
The journal Community Oncology concentrates particularly on original research, rare cancers in the community setting, quality of care in community oncology, end-of-life care, community practice guidelines, practice management and reimbursement issues, and news from Washington and the US Food and Drug Administration.
Georgia Cancer Specialists is a Top 10 private cancer practice in the U.S. and a leader in advanced cancer treatment and research. The practice supports more than 200,000 patient visits each year. GCS offers community-based medical oncology and hematology services and is the first private oncology practice to also provide a full range of support services for patients in Georgia, including wellness counseling and home health coordination. The GCS research department, whose focus is bringing targeted cancer therapy to communities, is the first in Georgia to offer Phase I clinical trials, the most novel cancer therapies available. GCS has 27 offices, 44 physicians, and more than 500 support staff members located in Metro Atlanta, and North and Central Georgia. Georgia Cancer Specialists can be found on the web at www.gacancer.com GCS is The Cancer Answer®.
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