High Dose Chemotherapy for Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): S.A. Gomm, N. Thatcher, A Cuthbert, J Chang, H. Burmester, P. Hall, K.B. Carroll
Primary Institution: Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester
Hypothesis
Can high dose combination chemotherapy improve outcomes in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer?
Conclusion
The high dose chemotherapy regimen showed a high response rate but no survival advantage over conventional doses.
Supporting Evidence
- 74% of patients responded to treatment.
- 22% achieved complete responses.
- Median survival was 6 months.
- Three patients died within the first two weeks.
- Patients' performance scores improved after treatment.
Takeaway
Doctors tried a strong mix of medicines to help people with a tough kind of lung cancer, and while some got better, most didn't live much longer than before.
Methodology
Patients received high dose chemotherapy with four agents and autologous bone marrow reinfusion, followed by evaluation of response and survival.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias as patients were not randomly assigned to treatment regimens.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and a short follow-up period.
Participant Demographics
23 patients, median age 40 years, 7 females and 16 males, all with advanced NSCLC.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.62
Confidence Interval
95% confidence limits 52-90%
Statistical Significance
p=0.62
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website