Comparing Intravenous and Intra-Arterial Folinic Acid for Colorectal Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): J.H. Anderson, D.J. Kerr, A. Setanoians, T.G. Cooke, C.S. McArdle
Primary Institution: University Department of Surgery, The Royal Infirmary, Glasgow; CRC Department of Medical Oncology, Glasgow University
Hypothesis
Does intra-hepatic arterial infusion of folinic acid reduce systemic exposure compared to intravenous administration in patients with colorectal liver metastases?
Conclusion
Intra-arterial administration of folinic acid significantly reduces systemic exposure compared to intravenous administration.
Supporting Evidence
- Intravenous folinic acid had a mean area under the curve of 163 µg ml-1 h-1.
- Intra-hepatic arterial folinic acid had a mean area under the curve of 142 µg ml-1 h-1.
- Mean peak plasma concentration was 18.5 µg ml-1 for intravenous and 14.8 µg ml-1 for intra-arterial administration.
- The volume of distribution was 7.4 l m-2 for intravenous and 11.2 l m-2 for intra-arterial administration.
Takeaway
This study looked at two ways to give a medicine called folinic acid to cancer patients. It found that giving it directly to the liver is better because it causes fewer side effects.
Methodology
Patients with colorectal liver metastases received both intravenous and intra-arterial infusions of folinic acid, and their blood was tested to compare drug levels.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the small number of patients and lack of a control group.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and anecdotal evidence of catheter occlusion.
Participant Demographics
Six patients (4 males, 2 females) with a mean age of 61 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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