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Combined-modality therapy for rectal cancer using irinotecan.
1Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10021, USA.
Oncology (Williston Park, N.Y.)
|July 12, 2002
Summary
Concurrent chemoradiotherapy is standard for advanced rectal cancer. Irinotecan-based chemotherapy shows promise for metastatic disease and is being investigated with pelvic radiation for rectal cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiation Oncology
- Medical Oncology
Background:
- Standard adjuvant treatment for T3/N1/2 rectal cancer involves pelvic radiation and fluorouracil-based chemotherapy.
- Newer chemotherapy regimens have emerged for metastatic disease, showing improved survival outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential of irinotecan (CPT-11)-based regimens in combination with pelvic radiation therapy for rectal cancer.
- To explore novel treatment strategies beyond standard adjuvant therapy for rectal cancer.
Main Methods:
- Investigational use of irinotecan (CPT-11, Camptosar)-based chemotherapy regimens.
- Combination therapy involving pelvic radiation and irinotecan-based chemotherapy.
Main Results:
- Irinotecan-based regimens have demonstrated improved survival in patients with metastatic disease.
- Active investigation is underway for these regimens in combination with pelvic radiation therapy for rectal cancer.
Conclusions:
- Irinotecan-based chemotherapy represents a promising avenue for rectal cancer treatment, particularly when combined with pelvic radiation.
- Further research is warranted to establish the efficacy and safety of irinotecan in the context of rectal cancer adjuvant therapy.