Emesis Control in Hematological-Oncology

Abstract

In supportive cancer therapy, major advances have been achieved recently in the management of emesis control including patients being treated for leukemia and lymphoma. With the advent of several new agents of the 5-HT3 (5-hydroxytryptamine 3) antagonist class, effective control of emesis can be achieved with both highly and moderately emetogenic chenmotherapy and with emetogenic radiotherapy. Best results are reported for prophylaxis of acute emesis after first line therapy as well as during subsequent courses and good results are also reported in rescue therapy for patients, refractory to conventional antiemetic regimens. Results are less promising for delayed emesis. Further progress will be possible with combination therapy.

Key Words:

• emesis control
• 5-HT3 antagonists
• leukemia
• lymphoma