Dose-escalation study of weekly irinotecan and daily carboplatin with concurrent thoracic radiotherapy for unresectable stage III non-small cell lung cancer
2002

Study on Irinotecan and Carboplatin for Lung Cancer

Sample size: 31 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Yamada M, Kudoh S, Fukuda H, Nakagawa K, Yamamoto N, Nishimura Y, Negoro S, Takeda K, Tanaka M, Fukuoka M

Primary Institution: Osaka City University Medical School

Hypothesis

The study aims to evaluate the maximum tolerated dose, recommended dose, and toxicity profile of weekly irinotecan with daily carboplatin and concurrent thoracic radiotherapy in patients with unresectable stage III non-small cell lung cancer.

Conclusion

The study concluded that the major toxicity of this regimen was pneumonitis, and it may be effective against unresectable non-small cell lung cancer.

Supporting Evidence

  • The maximum tolerated dose of irinotecan was found to be 60 mg/m².
  • The recommended dose of irinotecan was determined to be 50 mg/m².
  • The overall objective response rate was 60.0%, with three patients achieving complete remission.

Takeaway

Doctors tested a new treatment for lung cancer and found that it can help some patients, but it can also cause serious side effects like lung problems.

Methodology

Patients received weekly irinotecan plus carboplatin for 4 weeks and thoracic radiotherapy for 6 weeks, with dose escalation of irinotecan.

Limitations

The study had a small sample size and was limited to patients with specific performance statuses.

Participant Demographics

Median age was 62 years, with 28 patients having a performance status of 0-1 and 12 with stage IIIA disease.

Statistical Information

Confidence Interval

95% confidence interval 41.4–78.6%

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/sj.bjc.6600464

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