Expanding Availability of TTFields for Mesothelioma Patients

MAAC StaffJanuary 14, 2021

Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) are a newer treatment option in the mesothelioma community. TTFields target mesothelioma cancer by producing low-intensity electrical currents. These disrupt cell division to slow or stop cancer growth.

In 2019, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved TTFields. Specifically, it approved use of the NovoTTF-100L™ System with pemetrexed and platinum-based chemotherapy. This treatment may be a first-line option for patients with pleural mesothelioma.

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What Is the Significance of TTFields for Mesothelioma Patients?

TTFields can help improve mesothelioma survival. Recent studies demonstrated improved 1- and 2-year survival rates. Researchers also found success in shrinking tumors and stopping tumor growth.

TTFields Study Results

Researchers looked at 80 pleural mesothelioma patients who had not received other treatments. They were also unable to undergo surgery. After treatment with TTFields and chemotherapy, there was:

A 1-year survival rate of 62%
A 2-year survival rate of 42%

A portion of the 80 patients later had imaging scans done. Of 72 patients, researchers concluded:

40% of patients had tumors shrink
57% of patients had tumors stop growing

Promising study results contributed to the FDA approval. Because there is no cure for mesothelioma, researchers look for treatments that will improve survival and decrease symptoms for patients. TTFields continue to demonstrate success in extending patient survival.

How Do TTFields Work for Mesothelioma?

TTFields target mesothelioma cell division. Low-intensity, wave-like electrical fields disrupt cancer cell division. Patients may experience tumors shrinking or a stop in tumor growth.

TTFields are combined with chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can also help stop cancer from spreading and kill remaining cancer cells.

What Does the Treatment Involve?

TTFields offer convenience to patients with a wearable, portable system. The device approved by the FDA is Optune Lua™ by Novocure®. The system:

Is held within a wearable backpack
Operates within the backpack for portable treatment
May be used at night while the patient sleeps
Allows patients to continue with many day-to-day activities
Operates with rechargeable batteries

Patients should discuss logistics with their physician. There may be limitations specific to a patient’s individual case, particularly when undergoing chemotherapy treatment as well.

Patients may also see Optune Lua™ referred to as NovoTTF-100L™ System. Novocure® announced Optune Lua™ as the new brand name for NovoTTF-100L™ System in March 2020.

Patients may also hear references to Optune™. This treatment is specifically for patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). TTFields for GBM were also approved by the FDA.

Side Effects of TTFields for Mesothelioma Patients

Researchers found limited side effects from TTFields. In one clinical study, the only side effect was skin irritation. The Optune Lua™ website notes patients should notify their physician if skin problems emerge. Some skin conditions can be treated with topical ointments and creams.

Compared to other aggressive cancer treatments, TTFields often exhibit less negative effects. TTFields target the cancer location instead of spreading through the patient’s entire body. This helps mitigate side effects.

Where Can Mesothelioma Patients Find Treatment With TTFields?

The availability of TTFields is expanding across the United States. One of the most recent cancer centers to offer the treatment is Moffitt Cancer Institute. The Optune Lua™ website offers a full list of participating centers. This includes (but is not limited to):

Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center (Arizona)
University of California, Los Angeles (California)
Moffitt Cancer Institute (Florida)
Brigham and Women’s Hospital (Massachusetts)
Cleveland Clinic (Ohio)
Baylor College of Medicine (Texas)

In total, more than 70 cancer centers are certified to offer this treatment option. The list continues to expand, making TTFields more accessible to mesothelioma patients.

Determining if TTFields Are the Best Treatment Option

Interested patients should ask their healthcare provider about TTFields. What’s best for one patient may not be best for another. Currently, Optune Lua™ is:

For adult patients
For patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM)
For those with unresectable, locally advanced or metastatic MPM
To be used with standard chemotherapy (pemetrexed and platinum-based chemotherapy)

A mesothelioma specialist can provide patients with a complete understanding of eligibility. If ineligible, there are other mesothelioma treatments that may be an option. Researchers continue to develop treatment advancements to help improve disease management for patients.