Orthodontic cancer is a rare form of cancer that affects the bones and tissues of the mouth and jaw. Treatment options for orthodontic cancer are limited, and often involve invasive surgery and aggressive chemotherapy.

However, a new dual immunotherapy treatment has recently been approved for use in orthodontic cancer patients, offering renewed hope for those diagnosed with the disease.

What is Dual Immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that works by stimulating the patient’s immune system to attack cancer cells.

Dual immunotherapy involves the use of two different types of immunotherapy drugs, which work together to enhance the body’s immune response and target cancer cells more effectively.

The two drugs used in dual immunotherapy are typically checkpoint inhibitors, which block receptors on cancer cells that prevent the body’s immune system from attacking them.

By blocking these receptors, checkpoint inhibitors make it easier for the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells.

How Dual Immunotherapy Works for Orthodontic Cancer

The dual immunotherapy treatment approved for orthodontic cancer patients involves the use of two checkpoint inhibitors, pembrolizumab and nivolumab.

These drugs are administered intravenously and work by blocking the PD-1 and CTLA-4 checkpoint receptors on cancer cells.

Studies have shown that this dual immunotherapy treatment can significantly improve progression-free survival rates in orthodontic cancer patients, compared to traditional chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

In addition, the treatment has fewer side effects than chemotherapy and radiation, making it a more attractive option for patients who may not be able to tolerate the side effects of those treatments.

Benefits of Dual Immunotherapy for Orthodontic Cancer Patients

One of the main benefits of dual immunotherapy for orthodontic cancer patients is that it offers a potential cure for the disease.

While traditional chemotherapy and radiation therapy can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the cancer, they often do not provide a cure. Dual immunotherapy, on the other hand, has been shown to increase the chances of complete remission and long-term survival in orthodontic cancer patients.

In addition, dual immunotherapy has fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy and radiation therapy. This is because it works by targeting cancer cells specifically, rather than attacking all rapidly dividing cells in the body.

This reduces the risk of side effects such as nausea, hair loss, and anemia, which are commonly associated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Current Status of Dual Immunotherapy for Orthodontic Cancer

The dual immunotherapy treatment using pembrolizumab and nivolumab was approved by the FDA in 2018 for use in orthodontic cancer patients.

Since then, clinical trials have been ongoing to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment in various patient populations and to identify any potential side effects.

While the treatment has shown promise in early clinical trials, it is not yet known whether it will be effective in all orthodontic cancer patients. Some patients may not respond well to the treatment, and others may experience serious side effects.

As with any cancer treatment, it is important to carefully weigh the risks and benefits of dual immunotherapy with your doctor.

Conclusion

Dual immunotherapy is a promising new treatment option for orthodontic cancer patients.

By leveraging the power of the body’s immune system to fight cancer, this treatment offers a potential cure for the disease with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy and radiation therapy. While more research is needed to determine the long-term effectiveness and safety of this treatment, it has already shown great promise in the fight against orthodontic cancer.