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[Chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer]
Y Sakata1, H Takemori, H Suzuki
1Dept. of Gastroenterology, Aomori Central Hospital.
Gan to Kagaku Ryoho. Cancer & Chemotherapy
|October 1, 1996
Summary
Few chemotherapy drugs show significant efficacy for advanced pancreatic cancer. Newer agents and combination therapies, like 5-fluorouracil with cisplatin, offer improved survival and quality of life for patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medical Chemistry
Background:
- Advanced pancreatic cancer has limited effective treatment options.
- Traditional single-agent chemotherapy often shows modest response rates.
- The focus of chemotherapy is shifting towards improving quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the efficacy of various chemotherapy agents and combinations for advanced pancreatic cancer.
- To identify promising new drugs and treatment strategies.
- To explore treatment options for patients with poor performance status.
Main Methods:
- Review of single-agent chemotherapy efficacy (5-fluorouracil, doxorubicin, epirubicin, mitomycin C).
- Analysis of combination chemotherapy trials (e.g., FAM regimen).
- Evaluation of newer agents (CPT-11, gemcitabine, taxotere, BOF-A2) and novel combinations.
Main Results:
- Single agents showed response rates between 12-24%.
- Combination chemotherapy (FAM) did not exceed single-agent efficacy.
- Combinations like 5-FU/cisplatin and 5-FU/leucovorin/alpha interferon improved survival (median 7.6-22 months).
- Continuous infusion of low-dose 5-FU and cisplatin showed promise for debilitated patients.
Conclusions:
- Current chemotherapy for advanced pancreatic cancer has limitations.
- Newer agents and combination therapies offer improved outcomes and quality of life.
- Further research into novel agents and treatment methodologies is crucial for future advancements.