Related Experiment Videos
First hints in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
J Treat1, R Greenberg, J Bratschi
1Hematology/Oncology Section, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 19104.
Leukemia
|January 1, 1994
Summary
All-trans retinoic acid showed minimal activity in metastatic non-small cell lung cancer patients. However, its low toxicity suggests potential when combined with other agents for lung cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains a significant cause of cancer mortality.
- Investigating novel therapeutic agents for advanced NSCLC is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) in patients with metastatic NSCLC.
- To determine the response rate and duration of treatment with oral ATRA.
Main Methods:
- A phase II study involving 28 patients with metastatic NSCLC.
- Patients received oral all-trans retinoic acid at 175 mg/m2 daily.
- ECOG performance status, weight loss, and toxicities were recorded.
Main Results:
- Two partial responses were observed in patients with adenocarcinoma, lasting 7 months each.
- Common toxicities included cheilitis (25/28), headache (17/28), and fatigue (10/28).
- Elevated triglycerides and hepatic transaminases were frequent.
Conclusions:
- All-trans retinoic acid demonstrated minimal anti-cancer activity in this metastatic NSCLC cohort.
- The low toxicity profile of ATRA warrants further investigation in combination therapies for NSCLC.