Cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil continuous infusion for metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma

The activity of cisplatin and a 120-hour continuous infusion of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) was evaluated in 25 patients with metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Cisplatin 100 mg/m2 and 5-FU 1000 mg/m2/day by continuous infusion for 120 hours were given via an implanted venous access device and ambulatory infusion pump. Eighteen (72%) patients had multiple sites of metastases and seven (28%) patients had only bony metastases. Subjective responses in terms of pain relief and improvement in performance status were seen in 21 (84%) patients. Overall objective response was seen in 19 (76%) patients with two complete remissions (CR) and 17 partial remissions (PR). Locoregional disease responded more completely and rapidly than bony or visceral metastases. Toxicities included nausea, vomiting, neuropathy and one septic death. Cisplatin and 5-FU by continuous infusion represent an effective treatment for metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma.