Optimizing chemoradiation in locally advanced non-small-cell lung cancer

Gemcitabine (Gemzar) has demonstrated activity in a broad range of solid tumors with good tolerance. In combined-modality therapy, gemcitabine has achieved response rates ranging between 30% and 60% in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer. Initial trials of gemcitabine and radiation showed that the fields and volume of radiation as well as the dose of gemcitabine should be managed carefully so as to optimize the radiosensitizing properties of this agent. The Cancer and Leukemia Group B conducted a phase III trial in patients with unresectable stage III non-small-cell lung cancer. A total of 187 patients were randomized to one of three cisplatin (Platinol)-based combinations (with gemcitabine, paclitaxel [Taxol], or vinorelbine [Navelbine]) as induction therapy followed by concomitant chemoradiation. At a median follow-up of 9 months, the median survival for all patients was 18 months and the median progression-free survival was 10 months. The trial demonstrated that the combination of gemcitabine and cisplatin could be administered successfully as induction therapy without affecting concurrent administration of gemcitabine/cisplatin with radiation.