Randomized phase II study with two gemcitabine- and docetaxel-based combinations as first-line chemotherapy for metastatic non-small cell lung cancer
2008

Comparing Two Chemotherapy Combinations for Lung Cancer

Sample size: 81 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Passardi Alessandro, Cecconetto Lorenzo, Dall'Agata Monia, Dazzi Claudio, Pasquini Enzo, Oliverio Giovanni, Zumaglini Federica, Zoli Wainer, Nanni Oriana, Milandri Carlo, Frassineti Giovanni Luca, Amadori Dino

Primary Institution: Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, Meldola, Italy

Hypothesis

The study aims to evaluate and compare two treatment schedules for metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Conclusion

Both treatment schedules showed acceptable activity and survival outcomes as first-line treatments for NSCLC.

Supporting Evidence

  • The objective response rate was 20% in arm A and 18% in arm B.
  • Disease control rates were similar at 54% for arm A and 53% for arm B.
  • Median survival was 32 weeks for arm A and 33 weeks for arm B.

Takeaway

Doctors tested two different ways to give chemotherapy to lung cancer patients and found both worked pretty well.

Methodology

Patients were randomized to receive either an experimental regimen or an empirical regimen every three weeks.

Limitations

The study only included stage IV patients, which may have influenced the outcomes.

Participant Demographics

The study included 81 patients with stage IV NSCLC, median age 63, with a balance of genders and performance statuses.

Statistical Information

Confidence Interval

95% CI: 10.0–35.9 for arm A and 95% CI: 8.6–33.9 for arm B.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1479-5876-6-65

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