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Irinotecan(Campto R): efficacy as third/forth line therapy in advanced pancreatic cancer
1Internal Medicine, Jerusalem Krankenhaus, Moorkamp 2-8, 20357 Hamburg, Germany.
Anticancer Research
|May 1, 2001
Summary
Sequential chemotherapy with irinotecan, alone or combined, shows promise for advanced pancreatic cancer. Further research is needed to confirm optimal treatment strategies for improving patient survival.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Pancreatic cancer survival is often limited, necessitating advanced treatment options.
- Sequential poly-chemotherapy (EOSPC) aims to extend progression-free survival (PFST) in advanced cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of third- or fourth-line chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer.
- To assess irinotecan, alone or in combination with oxaliplatin and 5-FU/FA, in this patient group.
Main Methods:
- Pilot study involving 17 pancreatic cancer patients.
- Treatment included irinotecan monotherapy or combination regimens.
- Follow-up utilized imaging (CT) and tumor markers (CA 19-9).
Main Results:
- Response rates varied between imaging and tumor marker assessments.
- Median progression-free survival (PFST) was 4 months.
- Combination therapy appeared more effective than irinotecan alone, with manageable side effects.
Conclusions:
- Irinotecan-based chemotherapy, as third- or fourth-line treatment, may improve survival in pancreatic cancer.
- Combination regimens warrant further investigation for enhanced efficacy.
- Efficacy-oriented sequential poly-chemotherapy (EOSPC) is a viable strategy for advanced pancreatic cancer.