Related Experiment Videos
PCNU and recurrent childhood brain tumors
J C Allen1, C Hancock, R Walker
1Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, NY.
Journal of Neuro-Oncology
|January 1, 1987
Summary
PCNU chemotherapy showed modest activity in recurrent childhood brain tumors, with an 18% response rate. Its toxicity and efficacy were comparable to existing nitrosoureas, offering no clear advantage for pediatric central nervous system tumors.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Pediatric oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Nitrosourea analogues are used for brain tumors.
- PCNU (a nitrosourea analogue) showed promise in preclinical studies.
- Recurrent pediatric central nervous system (CNS) tumors have limited treatment options.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of PCNU in children with recurrent primary CNS tumors.
- To determine the objective response rate of PCNU in pediatric brain tumor patients.
Main Methods:
- Phase II clinical trial of PCNU in 39 children with recurrent CNS tumors.
- PCNU administered intravenously in two dose schedules (100-125 mg/m2 or 70-90 mg/m2).
- Response assessed by CT scans after two chemotherapy courses; toxicity monitored.
Main Results:
- Overall objective response rate was 18% (7/39), with only partial responses observed.
- Response rates varied by tumor type: brainstem glioma (18%), cerebral glioma (27%), ependymoma (100%), and primitive neuroectodermal tumors (0%).
- Significant thrombocytopenia (79%) was the primary toxicity; overall efficacy was lower than BCNU and CCNU.
Conclusions:
- PCNU demonstrates modest activity in recurrent childhood gliomas.
- Intravenous PCNU does not appear to offer a clinical advantage over existing nitrosoureas for pediatric recurrent brain tumors.
- Further investigation into optimal dosing or combination therapies may be warranted.