Dr. Jed Gorden reviews the technique of pleurodesis to manage the complication of recurrent malignant pleural effusion (MPE).

A tunneled pleural catheter is an excellent way to manage the symptoms of a recurrent malignant pleural effusion. Dr. Jed Gorden describes how it is placed and how it works.

Dr. Jed Gorden describes the details of how a thoracentesis is performed in order to clarify the diagnosis and treat symptoms of a malignant pleural effusion (MPE).

Interventional pulmonologist Dr. Jed Gorden reviews malignant pleural effusions (MPEs) are a common complication of lung cancer and some other cancers.

What is the role for the neuroprotective agent memantine in patients receiving whole brain radiation therapy for brain metastases? Dr. Vivek Mehta reviews current practices to minimize risk of cognitive problems.

Radiation therapy can be very helpful in treating painful bone metastases or those at risk for causing a fracture due to compromise of bone strength. Dr. Vivek Mehta reviews the basics of this approach. 

Liquid biopsies (also called serum testing) is a practice already approved in Europe for EGFR lung cancer patients. Drawing blood to test for acquired resistance is easier and quicker than needle biopsies. How long until it is standard practice in the US?

A study released at ASCO 2015 showed that the BRAF V600E mutation had a high response rate to combination therapy Tafinlar (dabrafenib) plus Mekinist (trametinib), which led the doctors to agree that BRAF testing in lung cancer should become commonplace.

A French study presented at ASCO 2015 showed a survival benefit with Avastin (bevacizumab) added to standard chemo, unlike a prior US study. The doctors discuss the influence of this trial and future potential benefits from immunotherapy in mesothelioma.

Managing brain metastases is a big concern for lung cancer patients. The doctors discuss the drawbacks of whole brain radiotherapy and the fact that there are still unknowns regarding more targeted stereotactic radiosurgery.