Strategies for the targeted delivery of therapeutics for osteosarcoma

BACKGROUND: Conventional therapy for osteosarcoma has reached a plateau of 60 - 70%, a 5-year survival rate that has changed little in two decades, highlighting the need for new approaches. OBJECTIVE: To review the alternative means of delivering effective therapy for osteosarcoma that reach beyond the central venous catheter. METHODS: Drawing on the author's own experiences providing care to high-risk osteosarcoma patients and reviewing the last two decades of literature describing sarcoma therapy, available information is summarized about potential osteosarcoma treatments that deliver therapy by a less conventional route. RESULTS/CONCLUSIONS: Intra-arterial chemotherapy has a limited impact on survival, but may help to achieve a better limb salvage. Intrapleural chemotherapy is important for managing malignant effusions. The development of inhalation therapies, treatments that target new bone formation such as bisphosphonates, chemically targeted radiation and antibody-based therapies all have potential to improve osteosarcoma therapy.