We are delighted to present the latest edition of touchREVIEWS in Oncology & Haematology. This issue underscores the evolving landscape of cancer therapeutics, showcasing advances across a wide range
of malignancies, from haematologic diseases to solid tumours, through novel mechanisms, emerging biomarkers and personalized treatment strategies.
We begin with an editorial by Isabela Wen-Chi Chang et al. examining the ROSEWOOD trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03332017). Their discussion on zanubrutinib combined with obinutuzumab highlights a potential advancement in the management of relapsed/refractory follicular lymphoma, suggesting the value of next-generation BTK inhibition.
Following this, João Felipe Lima Feldmann et al. present a comprehensive overview of liquid biopsy in melanoma. The article illustrates how this minimally invasive diagnostic tool holds promise for both early-stage disease detection and dynamic monitoring in advanced melanoma, with the potential to transform risk stratification and real-time treatment adaptation.
In an article by Allan A Lima Pereira et al., the focus turns to advanced biliary tract cancers, where therapeutic options have historically been limited. They review the TOPAZ-1 trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03875235), which evaluates durvalumab in combination with gemcitabine and cisplatin as a new standard of care, offering encouraging survival benefits and a potential therapeutic avenue for patients with this aggressive malignancy.
Manan Shah et al. explore cell therapy strategies for relapsed/refractory acute myeloid leukaemia in older adults. This review highlights the clinical challenges in this population and presents evolving approaches, including modified transplantation techniques and immune-based strategies, designed to improve tolerability and long-term outcomes.
Ari Joseph Rosenberg et al. shift the spotlight to antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) in head and neck cancer. Their article outlines the mechanisms and design of ADCs, current trial evidence and the future potential of these agents in addressing unmet needs in recurrent and metastatic disease settings.
Finally, Gabriel Lenz et al. address the unique therapeutic challenges posed by central nervous system (CNS) involvement in EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer. Their insightful review summarizes the efficacy of novel agents like osimertinib and amivantamab in overcoming the blood–brain barrier, emphasizing how CNS-directed strategies are redefining outcomes in this hard-to-treat patient population.
The editors of touchREVIEWS in Oncology & Haematology would like to extend our sincere thanks to the authors for their valuable contributions, as well as to our reviewers and editorial board for their dedication in upholding the quality and rigour of this publication. We are also grateful to our society partners for their continued support. We hope that this issue provides meaningful insights and inspiration to clinicians, researchers and healthcare professionals working to improve outcomes for patients with cancer.
Axel Merseburger
Prof. Dr. med. Axel Stuart Merseburger is a highly experienced urologist with over 21 years of practice. He works at the Department of Urology at the University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein in Lubeck, Germany and specializes in urology and robotic surgery. Dr Merseburger is considered an expert in his field with a wide range of qualifications and achievements. Having studied medicine at top institutions such as the Hannover Medical School and the Harvard Medical School, Dr Merseburger has gained extensive knowledge and expertise. He has completed various fellowships and training, including a scholarship at the Uniformed Services University in Washington and a fellowship at the Henry M Jackson Foundation Center for Prostate Disease Research. Dr Merseburger has published 442 scientific publications, demonstrating his dedication to research and innovation. He has received numerous awards and prizes, including the Werner Staehler Memorial and Urologia Internationalis prizes. With his wealth of experience and expertise, Dr Merseburger is known for his contributions to the field of urology. He is highly regarded for his skills in robotic surgery and his focus on prostate cancer. His dedication to improving patient outcomes and advancing the field of urology makes him a highly respected and trusted doctor. Overall, Prof. Dr. med. Axel Stuart Merseburger is an accomplished uro-urologist who brings knowledge and expertise to his practice. His dedication to research, innovative treatments and patient care makes him a valuable asset to the medical community.
