Less Toxic Treatment for Advanced Gastrointestinal Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): P.W.M. Johnson, P.I. Thompson, M.T. Seymour, N.P. Deasy, R.C. Thuraisingham, M.L. Slevin, P.F.M. Wrigley
Primary Institution: ICRF Department of Medical Oncology, St Bartholomew's and Homerton Hospitals, London, UK
Hypothesis
Can a regimen of 5-fluorouracil and high-dose folinic acid be effective with lower toxicity for advanced gastrointestinal adenocarcinomas?
Conclusion
The study found that a new treatment regimen is effective with low toxicity for patients with advanced gastrointestinal adenocarcinomas.
Supporting Evidence
- The overall response rate was 26% in evaluable patients.
- No toxicity greater than WHO Grade II occurred.
- Performance status improved in 60% of patients after treatment.
Takeaway
Doctors tested a new way to give medicine to cancer patients that is easier on their bodies, and it worked pretty well.
Methodology
Patients received a specific combination of folinic acid and 5-fluorouracil every two weeks for up to 12 courses, with assessments of response and toxicity.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and was not a phase III trial.
Participant Demographics
Median age was 54 years, with 38% female; included various types of advanced adenocarcinomas.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI 15-37%
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