Related Experiment Videos
High-dose methotrexate for advanced breast cancer.
Cancer Treatment Reports
|May 1, 1979
Summary
High-dose methotrexate with citrovorum factor rescue showed effectiveness in advanced breast cancer patients. Despite toxic effects, particularly CNS dysfunction, this regimen achieved objective tumor regression in 29% of patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Advanced recurrent breast cancer often requires salvage chemotherapy.
- Previous treatments, including Adriamycin, may lead to refractory disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of high-dose methotrexate with citrovorum factor rescue.
- To assess this regimen in patients with advanced refractory breast cancer.
Main Methods:
- Administered high-dose methotrexate infusions with citrovorum factor rescue.
- Included 27 patients previously treated with Adriamycin-containing regimens.
- Monitored objective tumor regression and adverse events.
Main Results:
- Achieved objective tumor regression in 8 of 27 patients (29%), with a median response duration of 26 weeks.
- Similar response rates were observed in patients with and without prior methotrexate exposure.
- Most toxic effects, including myelosuppression and gastrointestinal issues, were mild and transient.
Conclusions:
- High-dose methotrexate with citrovorum factor rescue is an effective treatment for advanced refractory breast cancer.
- Central nervous system dysfunction was the most significant toxicity.
- The high cost of this treatment may limit its future utility.