Combination chemotherapy of docetaxel and carboplatin in advanced or recurrent cervix cancer. A pilot study

This is a pilot study for a future trial to assess the efficacy and safety of combination chemotherapy with docetaxel and carboplatin in advanced or recurrent uterine cervix cancer.

The patients eligible for this study had histologically confirmed, advanced (stage IB2-IV) or recurrent uterine cervix cancer. Eligible patients had measurable lesions and must have sufficient bone marrow, renal, and liver functions. Docetaxel was administered intravenously (IV) at 60 mg/m2 followed by IV carboplatin administration based on AUC = 6. Chemotherapy was repeated in 1-6 courses depending on the purpose of the therapy. The response was evaluated based on RECIST criteria. The toxicity grade was determined by NCI-CTC version 2.

During January 2001 and April 2004, 17 patients were entered in this study. The distribution of stage was IB2, 3; IIB, 8; IIIB, 3; IVB, 1; recurrent, 2. There were 9 squamous cell carcinomas, 6 adenocarcinomas, 1 adenosquamous cell carcinoma, and 1 small cell carcinoma. The overall response rate was 76% (2 CR, 11 PR, and 4 SD). No progression of disease was observed. All 5 adenocarcinoma patients in the neoadjuvant chemotherapy group responded including 1 pathological CR. The incidences of grade 3/4 toxicities were 76% for neutrocytopenia, 12% for thrombocytopenia, and 6% for anemia. No grade 3/4 neurotoxicity was observed.

The combination of docetaxel and carboplatin is an effective and safe treatment for uterine cervix cancer. Further evaluation particularly targeted on cervical adenocarcinoma is warranted.