Docetaxel and Erlotinib for Elderly Prostate Cancer Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Mitchell Gross, Celestia Higano, Allan Pantuck, Olga Castellanos, Erica Green, Koo Nguyen, David B Agus
Primary Institution: Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Hypothesis
The study aims to determine the anti-cancer activity of docetaxel combined with erlotinib for the treatment of elderly subjects with androgen-independent prostate cancer.
Conclusion
Docetaxel/erlotinib can be delivered safely in elderly patients with AIPC, with anti-cancer activity comparable to docetaxel monotherapy but with increased toxicity.
Supporting Evidence
- No objective responses were observed in 8 patients with measurable lesions.
- A median of 6 treatment cycles were delivered per patient.
- Five of 22 patients experienced a ≥ 50% decline in PSA.
Takeaway
This study tested a combination of two cancer drugs in older men with prostate cancer, finding it safe but not significantly better than using just one of the drugs.
Methodology
This was a multi-institutional Phase II study involving elderly patients with confirmed prostate cancer who had progressive disease despite hormone therapy.
Potential Biases
Selection bias may limit the applicability of results as the study focused on elderly patients who may not represent the broader population.
Limitations
The study was non-randomized and had a small sample size, which may limit the generalizability of the results.
Participant Demographics
Median age was 73.5 years, with a range of 65 to 80 years.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI 8–45% for PSA decline.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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