Etoposide and cisplatin salvage chemotherapy for small cell lung cancer

Thirty patients with previously treated small cell lung cancer received salvage combination chemotherapy with etoposide and cisplatin. Two complete and six partial responses were observed, for a major response rate of 27%. Responses occurred promptly and sustained palliation was achieved among responders. Myelosuppression was the major dose-limiting toxic effect. A schedule of etoposide (115 mg/m2 iv on Days 1-3) and cisplatin (25 mg/m2 iv on Days 1-3 every 28 days) is recommended for further clinical trials.