Related Experiment Videos
[Gemcitabine and urothelial tumours]
1CRLC Val d'Aurelle, Montpellier, France. stculine@valdorel.fnclcc.fr
Anti-Cancer Drugs
|April 20, 2001
Summary
Metastatic urothelial cancer treatment has evolved. The gemcitabine and cisplatin (GC) protocol shows promising efficacy and a manageable toxicity profile compared to the older M-VAC regimen.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Urothelial Carcinomas
- Medical Treatments
Context:
- Metastatic urothelial tumors have historically been treated with the methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and cisplatin (M-VAC) protocol.
- The M-VAC protocol demonstrates chemo-sensitivity but lacks chemo-curability and is associated with significant toxicity.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of gemcitabine-based chemotherapy for metastatic urothelial tumors.
- To compare the outcomes of the gemcitabine and cisplatin (GC) protocol with the standard M-VAC protocol.
Summary:
- Gemcitabine monotherapy showed a 22-28% objective response rate with acceptable toxicity.
- The gemcitabine and cisplatin (GC) protocol achieved response rates of 42-66% (18-28% complete responses) with primarily hematological adverse effects.
- Ongoing research focuses on optimizing the GC protocol and exploring gemcitabine in combination therapies or as adjuvant treatment.
Impact:
- The GC protocol presents a promising alternative to M-VAC for metastatic urothelial tumors, offering improved response rates with a potentially better toxicity profile.
- Further research and a phase III trial comparing M-VAC and GC are anticipated to clarify optimal treatment strategies.