A phase II study of induction therapy with carboplatin and gemcitabine among patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer

J. G J V Aerts*, V. Surmont, R. J. Van Klaveren, K. Y. Tan, S. Senan, G. Van Wijhe, R. Vernhout, G. T. Verhoeven, H. C. Hoogsteden, J. P. Van Meerbeeck

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The objectives of this trial were to evaluate the activity and safety of gemcitabine carboplatin as induction therapy in patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer METHODS: Patients received two cycles of gemcitabine (1250 mg/m on day 1 and 8), plus carboplatin (area under the curve = 5 on day 1), after which response was established. Patients received a third course only in the case of an objective response (OR). Non-responding patients were directly irradiated. Toxicity was assessed according to the NCI-CTC version 2, radiation toxicity was assessed according to RTOG criteria. Response evaluation was performed according to RECIST criteria. RESULTS: We identified 42 patients, of whom 37 were eligible. Of these, 51% (95% CI, 34%-68%) achieved an OR, all partial responses. No disease progression on therapy was established. Toxicity was mostly hematological: 35% trombocytopenia grade 3 and 4, and 40% neutropenia grade 3 and 4. No severe bleeding or hospitalization because of febrile neutropenia occurred. CONCLUSIONS: Gemcitabine and carboplatin administered according to a 3-week schedule is an active and safe induction regimen. Pending the results of a phase III study, we believe that it is a reasonable alternative among patients for whom cisplatin-based chemotherapy is contraindicated.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)532-536
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology
Volume1
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jul 2006

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