Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is primarily associated with occupational exposure to asbestos. Pleural mesothelioma is a malignancy of the pleural membrane; the lining that surrounds and protects the lungs.

Typically, the first diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) may be made by routine chest X-rays or after the patient presents with symptoms such as shortness of breath, weakness, weight loss, loss of appetite, chest or lower back pain, persistent coughing and difficulty in swallowing.

At present, treatment options are limited and survival rates are poor. Radical surgery is an option for only a small number of patients and radiotherapy is difficult due to the close proximity of tumours to vital organs. Palliative care using talc pleurodesis is commonly used as first line therapy to control symptoms. The combination chemotherapy of sodium pemetrexed + cisplatin is the sole approved therapy specifically for this patient group but survival benefits are, on average, modest and associated with side effects that require further clinical management.

Although asbestos use is now controlled in developed countries, incidence rates are continuing to rise due to the slow onset of the disease, which is often 40 years from exposure to asbestos. In the developing economies of Asia and Latin America, asbestos use is increasing.

HSV1716 therapy

Non clinical data supports the use of SEPREHVIR^®(HSV1716) in this indication and justifies the commencement of clinical development.

Preparations are underway to commence a Phase I/II study in the UK in a defined sub-group of patients with inoperable malignant pleural mesothelioma. The study will investigate single and repeat administration of SEPREHVIR^®(HSV1716). The safety, tolerability and biological effect of administration with SEPREHVIR^®(HSV1716) will be monitored carefully.