Intra-arterial Erbitux (Cetuximab) and Avastin (Bevacizumab) for Treating Patients Under 22 Years of Age with Relapsed or Refractory Intracranial Glioma
This phase I/II trial tests the safety and effectiveness of cetuximab and bevacizumab given through the arteries (intra-arterial) instead of through the veins (intravenous) in treating patients under 22 years of age with glioma contained within the skull (intracranial) that has come back after a period of improvement (relapsed) or has not responded to previous treatment (refractory). Cetuximab belongs to a class of drugs called epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors. Some brain tumors contain increased amounts of EGFR. When cetuximab blocks this receptor, it may be able to slow or stop the tumor from growing. Bevacizumab inhibits a different growth factor called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which affects blood vessels. It is the current standard of care for relapsed and refractory adult high grade gliomas. This study is unique in giving cetuximab and bevacizumab by a new delivery method called super-selective intra-arterial cerebral infusion or SIACI. This method involves giving the drugs directly to the blood vessels which supply the tumor. In addition, a drug called mannitol is given first to help break down a barrier between the blood vessels and the brain, allowing drugs get into the tumor. Giving intra-arterial cetuximab and bevacizumab instead of intravenously may be safe and effective in treating patients under 22 years of age with relapsed and refractory intracranial glioma.