Related Experiment Videos
High-dose methotrexate in osteosarcoma--Mayo Clinic studies
1Division of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905.
NCI Monographs : a Publication of the National Cancer Institute
|January 1, 1987
Summary
High-dose methotrexate (HDMTX) shows activity in osteosarcoma but its role in metastatic disease is unclear. Multidrug regimens with HDMTX may improve outcomes, but alternative treatments should also be considered.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- High-dose methotrexate (HDMTX) is an established chemotherapy agent.
- Its specific contribution to improved osteosarcoma treatment outcomes is under investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of HDMTX as a single agent in metastatic osteosarcoma.
- To assess the role of HDMTX in adjuvant treatment regimens for primary osteosarcoma.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing studies on HDMTX in osteosarcoma treatment.
- Analysis of a randomized study comparing HDMTX-vincristine with observation in adjuvant therapy.
Main Results:
- HDMTX efficacy as a single agent for metastatic osteosarcoma is not consistently proven.
- A randomized study did not conclusively support HDMTX as essential for improved primary osteosarcoma control.
- Multidrug regimens including HDMTX appear to benefit patients with primary osteosarcoma.
Conclusions:
- The precise role of HDMTX in osteosarcoma treatment requires further clarification.
- While HDMTX-containing regimens show promise, regimens excluding HDMTX warrant investigation for adjuvant therapy.