Everolimus (RAD001): First Systemic Treatment for Subependymal Giant Cell Astrocytoma Associated with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex

Everolimus (RAD001), a mTOR inhibitor, was initially used as an immunosuppressant in organ transplant patients; however, it also has significant antineoplastic properties. In patients with subependymal giant cell astrocytomas (SEGAs) associated with tuberous sclerosis complex who are not candidates for surgery, single-agent everolimus has demonstrated the ability to significantly reduce SEGA volume with good tolerability. In the Phase III, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, everolimus was associated with a SEGA response rate of 35% compared with 0% in the placebo group. The most common adverse events in clinical trials were stomatitis/mouth ulceration and upper respiratory tract infections, and most adverse events were grade 1 or 2; grade 4 events were rare.