Combination of Paclitaxel and Gemcitabine for Metastatic Breast Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Tomao Silverio, Romiti Adriana, Tomao Federica, Di Seri Marisa, Caprio Giuliana, Spinelli Gian Paolo, Terzoli Edmondo, Frati Luigi
Primary Institution: Department of Clinical Oncology, 'Regina Elena' Cancer Institute of Rome
Hypothesis
Can a biweekly combination of paclitaxel and gemcitabine be effective and tolerable for metastatic breast cancer patients previously treated with antracyclines?
Conclusion
The combination of gemcitabine and paclitaxel on a biweekly basis is effective and well-tolerated in breast cancer patients with prior treatment exposure to antracyclines.
Supporting Evidence
- 16% of patients achieved a complete response.
- 48% of patients achieved a partial response.
- Overall objective response rate was 64%.
- Stable disease was documented in 20% of patients.
Takeaway
Doctors tested a new medicine mix to help women with advanced breast cancer, and it worked well for many of them without making them too sick.
Methodology
Patients received paclitaxel followed by gemcitabine in a biweekly schedule for a maximum of eight cycles, with evaluations for toxicity and efficacy.
Limitations
The study had a small number of patients, which limits the generalizability of the results.
Participant Demographics
Median age was 51 years, with 80% having a WHO performance status of 0.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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