[Chemotherapy with consecutive low-dose CDDP combined with 5-FU for gynecologic malignancies]

CDDP is generally given in a bolus fashion because it has been considered to act in a dose-dependent manner. However, early studies demonstrated anti-tumor activity of CDDP was both dose- and time-dependent. This indicated that the anti-tumor effect of CDDP dependent on the area under the concentration of filterable platinum-time curve (AUC) obtained following an administration of the agent, but not on the maximum concentration (C max) of the agent. To increase the AUC and treatment compliance, we designed a consecutive low-dose CDDP dosing method (10 mg/m2, days 1-7). This method was found to be accompanied by a good treatment compliance and high dose intensity due to significantly reduced toxic effects when CDDP was combined with several other agents. 5-FU alone has been reported to be effective in approximately 20-25% of gynecologic malignancies. Moreover, CDDP can augment the cytotoxic activity of 5-FU through biochemical modulation. Accordingly, combination treatment with consecutive low-dose CDDP with 5-FU could be designed. The present report reviews the efficacy of this combination chemotherapy for cervical carcinoma.