Pregabalin for hot flashes in women: NCCTG trial N07C1

9513

Background: Hot flashes are a major problem in many women for which better treatment options are needed. Given the known efficacy of gabapentin for decreasing hot flashes, it was decided to evaluate pregabalin, with hopes that it would work better and/or with fewer toxicities. Methods: A three-arm, double-blinded, placebo-controlled randomized trial was developed. Women with bothersome hot flashes (at least 28/week) were randomized to receive either a placebo or target pregabalin oral doses of 75 mg bid or 150 mg bid (starting at 50 mg/d and then increasing the dose at weekly intervals to 50 mg bid, then 75 mg bid, and then, in the higher dose arm, 150 mg bid); patients were treated for 6 weeks. Hot flash numbers and scores (hot flash number times mean severity) were measured using a validated daily hot flash diary. A one-week baseline period preceded initiation of study tablets. The primary endpoint was the average intra-patient difference in hot flash score between baseline and week six, comparing the higher dose pregabalin arm and the placebo arm. With the planned sample size of 55 patients per arm, there was an 80% power and two-sided 5% Type I error rate to detect a difference of 0.54 standard deviations, or 1.08 hot flashes per day, or 2.7 units of hot flash score per day. Results: 207 patients were randomized between 6/20/2008 and 8/21/2008. The study arms were well balanced. Mean/median daily hot flash scores and frequencies for all pts at baseline were 15.7/13.4 and 8.3/7.7, respectively. The table shows the decreases in hot flashes from the baseline to the sixth treatment week. Larger numbers illustrate greater hot flash reductions. Toxicity information, quality of life information, and information regarding the effects of hot flashes on subjective symptoms will be available at the meeting time. Conclusions: Pregabalin reduces hot flashes in women. There appears to be similar effects with both studied doses.

[Table: see text]

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

A phase III randomized prospective trial of the effect of psychotherapy on distress in 287 prostate cancer patients: A URCC CCOP Study

9637

Background: Cancer patients suffer from significant psychological distress, including mood and anxiety disorders. Psychiatric disorders are common in cancer and affect 22 to 43% of cancer patients. We previously showed that Supportive Expressive Group Therapy (SET) was effective in reducing distress in women with metastatic breast cancer. The current study expands our earlier research and examines the effect of SET on mood disturbance in prostate cancer patients. Methods: A sample of 318 cancer patients diagnosed with prostate cancer was assessed for mood disturbances by 9 geographically distinct URCC CCOP affiliates. The patients were randomly assigned to receive either 12 weeks of SET or education materials as a control. Patient-reported mood disturbance was assessed using the Profile of Mood States (POMS), a psychometrically valid and reliable measure of mood states, at baseline, 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. Differences between treatment and control groups at follow-up were tested using a mixed-ANOVA model. The dependent variable was individual slopes on the POMS. Results: 287 patients (142 SET and 145 controls) provided complete data. No significant overall effect of intervention on mood was found (p=0.49) and the interaction between baseline mood scores and treatment arm was non-significant (p=0.075). There was a significant main effect for baseline mood (p<0.0001) suggesting that those who have the greatest mood disruption at baseline improve with time independently of treatment arm. Conclusions: This is the first large randomized clinical trial using group psychotherapy among men with prostate cancer. Results suggest that a brief SET intervention does not improve distress among men with prostate cancer. Future studies might consider recruiting patients with particular psychosymptomatology and tailoring interventions. Supported by U10 CA37420 and NCI 1R25CA102618.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

A phase II trial of carboplatin (C) and nab-paclitaxel (ABI-007-nab-P) in patients with unresectable stage IV melanoma: Final data from N057E

9055

Background: There is increasing evidence that paclitaxel and carboplatin are clinically active in the treatment of metastatic melanoma (MM). Nab-P is an albumin-bound paclitaxel with ability to bind SPARC (secreted protein acid rich in cysteine), that is overexpressed in MM and associated with poor prognosis. This study explores the clinical activity of the combination of nab-P and C in patients (pts) with stage IV melanoma and SPARC correlatives. Methods: A parallel phase II trial was conducted in pts with unresectable stage IV melanoma, who were either chemotherapy naïve (CN) or were previously treated (PT). A treatment regimen consisting of nab-P (100 mg/m2) and C (AUC 2) was administered on days 1, 8, and 15 of a 28 day cycle. The primary aim of this study was to assess whether tumor response rate (CR + PR by RECIST) was ≤15% vs ≥35% in the CN group and ≤5% vs ≥ 20% in the PT cohort. Major eligibility criteria: ≥18 years of age, ECOG PS ≤2, adequate organ function, platinum or taxane naive, peripheral neuropathy < grade 2, and no untreated brain metastasis; no pregnant and/or nursing women. Tumor tissue was tested for SPARC and level 3 immunohistochemical staining was considered positive. Results: 76 pts (41-CN and 35 PT) enrolled from 11/2006 - 7/2007, 3 pts (2-CN, 1-PT) cancelled prior to starting treatment. The median number of cycles administered was 4 (range 1–18-CN and 1–10-PT). There were 11 (28.2%) confirmed responses (1 CR and 10 PRs) in the CN cohort (90% CI: 16.7–42.3%) and 3 (8.8%) confirmed responses (3 PRs) in the PT cohort (90% CI: 2.5–21.3%). Median PFS was 4.5 months (CN) and 4.1 months (PT). Median OS was 11.1 months (CN) and 10.9 months (PT).The most common severe toxicities in both groups (CTCAE ≥ grade 3) included neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, neuro-sensory, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. PFS was not affected by SPARC positivity; however, based on limited data there is some evidence that OS may be longer with tumoral SPARC positivity (10.0 vs 12.8 mo; SPARC negative vs SPARC positive). Conclusions: The weekly combination of nab-P and C appears to be well tolerated with promising clinical activity as front line or salvage therapy in pts with MM. SPARC positivity may be associated with improved OS.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Ginger for chemotherapy-related nausea in cancer patients: A URCC CCOP randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial of 644 cancer patients

9511

Background: Despite the widespread use of antiemetics, post-chemotherapy nausea and vomiting continue to be reported by up to 70% of patients receiving chemotherapy. Ginger (Zingiber Officinale), an ancient spice, is used by practitioners worldwide to treat nausea and vomiting. We conducted a multi-site, phase II/III randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial to assess the efficacy of ginger for chemotherapy-related nausea in cancer patients at the University of Rochester-affiliated Community Clinical Oncology Program (CCOP) member sites. Methods: Cancer patients who experienced nausea following any chemotherapy cycle and were scheduled to receive at least three additional cycles were eligible. Patients were randomized into four arms: 1) placebo, 2) 0.5g ginger, 3) 1.0g ginger, or 4) 1.5g ginger. All patients received 5-HT3 receptor antagonist antiemetics on Day 1 of all cycles and took three 250mg capsules of ginger or placebo twice daily for six days starting three days before the first day of the next two cycles. Patients reported the severity of nausea during the morning, afternoon, evening, and night on a 7-point semantic rating scale (‘1' = ‘Not at all Nauseated' and ‘7' = “Extremely Nauseated”) for Days 1–4 of each cycle. The goal was to determine if ginger was more effective than placebo in controlling chemotherapy-related nausea in participants given a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist antiemetic. Results: A total of 644 patients were accrued (90% female, mean age = 53). Breast (66%), alimentary (6.5%), and lung (6.1%) cancers were the most common cancer types. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) examined change in nausea in the four study arms on Day 1 of cycles 2 and 3. All doses of ginger significantly reduced nausea (p=0.003). The largest reduction in nausea occurred with 0.5g and 1.0g of ginger. Also, time of day had a significant effect on nausea (p<0.001) with a linear decrease over 24 hours for patients using ginger. Conclusions: Ginger supplementation at daily dose of 0.5g-1.0g significantly aids in reduction of nausea during the first day of chemotherapy. Supported by NCI PHS grants 1R25CA10618 and U10CA37420.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

S0536: Carboplatin, paclitaxel, cetuximab, and bevacizumab followed by cetuximab and bevacizumab maintenance in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): A SWOG phase II study

8015

Background: Cetuximab (CX) plus platinum-based chemotherapy improves overall survival (OS) in advanced NSCLC (FLEX). SWOG previously showed that EGFR FISH is associated with efficacy outcomes in patients (pts) receiving CB/P/CX (S0342). Bevacizumab (B) plus chemotherapy also increases survival (E4599) in eligible pts. Given the biologic rationale for combining EGFR and VEGFR targeted agents, S0536 investigated the safety and efficacy of carboplatin (CB), paclitaxel (P) and CX plus B. Methods: Eligibility: treatment-naïve advanced stage non-squamous cell NSCLC, no requirement for EGFR positivity, PS 0–1, no brain metastases or hemoptysis. Treatment: CB AUC 6, P 200 mg/m2, B 15 mg/kg IV day 1 every 3 weeks, CX 400 mg/m2 day 1 then 250 mg/m2 weekly for up to 6 cycles; then B 15 mg/kg every 3 weeks and CX 250 mg/m2 weekly until progression. Primary endpoint: feasibility defined by the frequency and severity of ≥grade 4 hemorrhagic toxicities. Secondary endpoints: response rate, progression-free survival (PFS), OS and toxicity. Results: 110 pts enrolled from August 2006 to September 2007; 104 assessable. Pt characteristics: median age 64 years (42–78), Male/Female 52/52, PS 0/1 43/61, stage IIIB/IV 9/95, adenocarcinoma: 81, current/former smoker: 82. Overall toxicities were acceptable and comparable to S0342 and E4599. Primary endpoint was met: grade ≥4 hemorrhage: 2% (95% CI: 0–7%). There were 4 treatment-related deaths: lung hemorrhage (2), infection (1), unknown (1). Partial response (PR): 51/95 assessable (54%; 43%-64%); Stable disease (SD): 22/95 (23%). Disease control rate (PR+SD): 77%. With median follow up of 15 months (mos), PFS is 7 mos (18 pts remain progression-free) and OS is 14 mos. 1 year survival is 57% (47–67%). EGFR IHC by H score (>0 vs 0) showed a nonsignificant trend toward improved survival: 15 vs 11 mos (p=0.14). Conclusions: CB/P, CX plus B demonstrates safety, tolerability and efficacy in advanced NSCLC and is the most active regimen studied to date in SWOG. Additional S0536 biomarker studies including EGFR FISH will be presented. S0819, a Phase III trial of CB/P ± CX (plus B in eligible pts) is under development and is designed to validate EGFR FISH as a predictive biomarker.

[Table: see text]

Tolerability of lapatinib given concurrently with paclitaxel and trastuzumab as part of adjuvant therapy in patients with resected HER2+ breast cancer: initial safety data from the Mayo Clinic cancer research consortium trial RC0639

Abstract #2109

Background: Despite the impressive results of the recently released trastuzumab adjuvant therapy trials, 15% of patients with HER2 overexpressing or amplified breast cancer developed tumor relapse at 4 years. Lapatinib is a small molecule reversible TKI that inhibits both ErbB1 and ErbB2. The current study was developed to assess the cardiac safety and feasibility of adding lapatinib to paclitaxel and trastuzumab following as part of adjuvant therapy.&#x2028; Methods: A single-arm phase II study of doxorubicin (A, 60 mg/m2 day 1) and cyclophosphamide (C, 600 mg/m2 day 1) [q2w or q3w for 4 cycles]; followed by paclitaxel (P, 80 mg/m2 days 1, 8, 15), trastuzumab (T, 4 mg/kg loading dose then 2 mg/kg days 1, 8, 15), and lapatinib (L, 1000 mg days 1-21) [12 weeks]; followed by T (6 mg/kg day 1) and L (1000 mg days 1-21) [40 weeks] was conducted. The primary endpoint was the incidence of congestive heart failure. The current unplanned safety analysis was undertaken due to the observance of a high rate of G3/4 diarrhea.&#x2028; Results: From April 2007 to June 2008, 98 pts were enrolled and initiated study treatment. Median age was 51 (range 32-72). Among 83 pts with adverse event (AE) data available, 50 (60%) pts have experienced a G3/4 non-hematologic AE. During post-AC treatment, among 53 pts with AE data available, 31 (58.5%) patients have experienced a G3/4 non-hematologic AE with 24 (45%) patients reporting G3/4 diarrhea. Median cycle of onset of G3/4 diarrhea was cycle 5 (first cycle of PTL) with 16 (64%) cases first reported during cycle 5 and 5 (20%) cases first reported during cycle 6. Among 57, 46, 38, and 32 pts receiving treatment with PTL during cycles 5-8, 65%, 57%, 61%, and 72% of patients received the full L dose, respectively. 31 patients have ended active treatment with 10 due to patient refusal and 8 due to adverse events.&#x2028; Conclusions: Preliminary data suggest that L given concurrently with P and T at a dose of 1000 mg per day induces an unacceptable rate of moderate to severe diarrhea. Careful monitoring of diarrhea as well as L dose reduction and initiation of loperamide at first occurrence of diarrhea are recommended. The dose of L when given concurrently with P and T has been amended to 750 mg per day in the current study and safety data for the 1000 mg and 750 mg per day cohorts will be presented. Implications for the ongoing ALTTO study will also be presented.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr 2109.

A phase II randomized selection trial evaluating concurrent chemotherapy plus cetuximab or chemotherapy followed by cetuximab in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): Final report of SWOG 0342

7545

Background: Randomized clinical trials have failed to show a survival benefit for small molecule epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors plus chemotherapy in unselected patients with metastatic NSCLC. In contrast, pilot trials of EGFR targeted antibodies plus chemotherapy have suggested enhanced anti-tumor activity. This randomized phase II selection trial was designed to select a cetuximab-chemotherapy regimen for future evaluation in a phase III setting. Methods: Untreated patients (pts) with advanced stage NSCLC were randomized to receive paclitaxel (P) 225 mg/m2 and carboplatin (Cb) AUC=6 every 3 weeks plus concurrent cetuximab (C) 400 mg/m2 loading dose followed by 250 mg/m2, weekly for 4 cycles followed by maintenance C or sequential PCb for 4 cycles followed by C. Treatment was continued until disease progression. Eligible patients were required to have stage IIIB (pleural effusion) or IV (without brain metastases) disease, a performance status of 0–1 and adequate organ function. The primary endpoint was overall survival. The regimen with superior median survival would be considered for further evaluation provided it met a 10-month minimum. Given a true hazard ratio of 1.3, the probability of correctly choosing the superior arm would be > 90%. Results: From July 2004 to June 2005, 242 eligible pts were enrolled onto the study, Final results are described below: Conclusions: Both regimens met efficacy criterion for continued evaluation though the concurrent regimen of PCb + C, had numerically higher survival, and was chosen for further study. Some toxicities were significantly increased with concurrent therapy. A phase II trial of PCb + Cetuximab + Bevacizumab is ongoing (SWOG 0536) in anticipation of a phase III trial. Molecular correlative studies of the EGFR signaling pathway including EGFR IHC, FISH and mutation analysis are underway.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

[Table: see text]

Does tetracycline prevent/palliate epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor-induced rash? A phase III trial from the North Central Cancer Treatment Group (N03CB)

LBA9006

Purpose: Many patients who receive EGFR inhibitors develop an acneiform rash, and anecdotal reports suggest tetracycline is effective in treating it. To our knowledge, however, no rigorous trials have ever been published to substantiate this approach. This double- blinded, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to assess the role of tetracycline in preventing EGFR inhibitor-induced rash and/or reducing its severity. Methods: 61 patients were randomly assigned to tetracycline 500 mg orally twice a day×4 weeks versus an identical, similarly prescribed placebo. Eligibility criteria required all patients to have begun an EGFR inhibitor </= 7 days prior with no rash at study entry. Patients were to be followed for 8 weeks. Physician assessments of rash incidence, severity, and adverse events, occurred at 4 and 8 weeks. Patients completed a weekly rash diary, quality of life questionnaire (SKINDEX-16), and EGFR inhibitor compliance questionnaire. Thirty patients per group provides 90% power to detect a difference in rash incidence (the primary endpoint) of 40% between groups and of rejecting the null hypothesis of equal proportions with a type I error of 5% (2-sided). Results: Treatment arms were balanced on baseline characteristics, drop out rates, and rates of discontinuation of the EGFR inhibitor. Rash incidence was comparable across arms. Physicians reported that 16 tetracycline-treated patients (70%) and 22 placebo-exposed patients (76%) developed a rash (p=0.61). However, tetracycline appears to have lessened rash severity. By week 4, physician-reported grade 2 rash occurred in 17% of tetracycline-treated patients (n=4) and 55% of placebo- exposed patients (n=16); (p=0.04). Tetracycline-treated patients reported better scores on certain quality of life parameters (SKINDEX-16), such as skin burning or stinging, skin irritation, and being bothered by a persistence/recurrence of a skin condition. Adverse events were comparable across arms. Conclusion: Tetracycline did not prevent EGFR inhibitor-induced rashes. However, diminished rash severity and improved quality of life suggest this antibiotic merits further study.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Anti-tumor activity of mTOR inhibitor temsirolimus for relapsed mantle cell lymphoma: A phase II trial in the North Central Cancer Treatment Group

7532

Background: Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL) is characterized by t(11;14) resulting in over expression of cyclin D1, a member of the phosphatidylinosital 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway. Temsirolimus is a novel inhibitor of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) kinase. Previous studies with weekly temsirolimus at a dose of 250mg demonstrated a 38% overall response rate in 35 patients (JCO 23 (23); 5347–56, 2005). Thrombocytopenia was frequently observed and was dose limiting. The current study tested whether low-doses (25mg) of temsirolimus could produce a similar overall response rate (ORR) with less toxicity. Methods: Eligible patients had biopsy proven cyclin D1 positive MCL and had relapsed or were refractory to therapy. Patients received temsirolimus 25mg IV weekly as a single agent. Patients were restaged after 1 cycle (4 doses), after 3 cycles, and every 3 cycles thereafter. Patients with a tumor response after 6 cycles were eligible to continue drug for a total of 12 or 2 cycles after complete remission (CR) and then were observed without maintenance. The goal was to achieve an ORR of at least 20%. Results: Twenty-nine patients were enrolled between March and August 2005. Twenty-two patients have completed therapy. One patient with a major protocol violation on cycle-1 and one ineligible patient were excluded, leaving 27 evaluable patients. The ORR was 41% (11/27), with 1 CR and 10 PRs. Early evaluation of TTP showed a median of 5.5 months (95% CI: 3.3–7.7) and the duration of response for the 11 responders was 6.2 months (95% CI: 3.6 to not yet reached). These results compare favorably with the 6.5 months and 6.9 months, respectively, found in previous trials that used 250 mg. The median dose delivered per month was 80 mg (range, 10–100 mg). Sixteen (59%) of patients required a dose reduction. The median time on treatment was 4.4 months (95% CI, 3.3–7.7). The incidence of grade 3 and 4 thrombocytopenia was 12% and 0%, respectively. One patient experienced grade 5 infection without neutropenia, which was considered unrelated to CCI-779. Conclusions: Single agent CCI-779 at a dose of 25mg has anti-tumor activity in relapsed MCL similar to the 250 mg dose. This study indicates that combinations of temsirolimus with other agents should be feasible.

[Table: see text]

Salvage chemotherapy with rituximab DHAP (RDHAP) for relapsed non-hodgkin lymphoma (NHL): A phase II trial in the North Central Cancer Treatment Group

7574

Background: Patients (pts) with relapsed aggressive NHL are usually treated with intensive platinum-based chemotherapy regimens prior to stem cell transplant (SCT). This study was designed to learn the toxicity and efficacy of adding 4 doses of rituximab to the standard DHAP salvage chemotherapy regimen. Methods: Eligible pts had biopsy-proven relapsed CD20+ NHL and were eligible for platinum-based chemotherapy. Pts were treated with rituximab 375 mg/m2 d1,8,15, and 22 as well as cis-platinum 100 mg/m2 d3, cytosine arabinoside 2 g/m2 IV q 12 hours x two doses d4, dexamethasone 40 mg PO/IV d3–6, and G-CSF d5–14. Pts were restaged after 1 and 2 cycles; responding pts could proceed to SCT or further cycles of DHAP at MD discretion. There was no provision for rituximab maintenance. The goal was to achieve an overall response rate (ORR) of ≥ 75%. Results: Fifty-eight pts were enrolled between 10/29/00 and 6/20/03. The median age was 63 years (range, 43–83). One pt was ineligible because the tumor was CD20-. All 57 eligible pts completed one cycle; 48 pts completed 2 cycles. The ORR was 70% (40/57) with 16 (28%) CR/CRu and 24 (42%) PR. For all 57 pts, the median TTP was 13.1 months (mos) (95% CI: 7.3–18.2) and the median OS 30.5 mos (95% CI: 17.8–52.5). Seventeen pts (30%) proceeded to SCT. The median duration of response (DR), time to progression (TTP) and overall survival (OS) for the SCT pts were 41.6, 42.3, and 43.6 mos, respectively. The median DR, TTP, and OS for the 25 pts who responded to RDHAP but did not proceed to SCT were 12.4, 13.1, and 38.8 mos, respectively. The incidence of grade 3 and 4 thrombocytopenia was 53% and 39%, respectively. The incidence of grade 3 and 4 neutropenia was 11% and 68%, respectively. Six pts (11%) had nephrotoxicity–five grade 3 and two grade 4 (one pt had both) and one pt required dialysis. Conclusions: The addition of rituximab to standard DHAP is safe with similar toxicity profile to DHAP alone. Despite a high ORR, the CR rate and the % pts proceeding to SCT in this cooperative group setting remain low. New agents are needed that can be added to these regimens to increase the effectiveness and reduce toxicity to allow more pts to proceed to SCT.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Concurrent chemotherapy plus cetuximab or chemotherapy followed by cetuximab in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): A randomized phase II selectional trial SWOG 0342

7015

Background: Randomized clinical trials have failed to show a survival benefit for small molecule EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors plus chemotherapy in patients with advanced NSCLC. In contrast, pilot trials of EGFR targeted antibodies plus chemotherapy have suggested enhanced anti-tumor activity. This large randomized phase II trial was designed to select a cetuximab -chemotherapy regimen for future evaluation in a phase III setting. Methods: Untreated patients (pts) with stage IIIB (by pleural effusion) or IV (without brain metastases) NSCLC, with a performance status of 0–1 and adequate organ function were randomized to received paclitaxel (P) 225 mg/m2 and carboplatin (Cb) AUC=6 every 3 weeks plus cetuximab (C) 400 mg/m2 loading dose followed by 250 mg/m2, weekly for 4 cycles followed by maintenance C or the same doses of PCb for 4 cycles followed by C. C was continued until disease progression or 1 year of therapy. The primary endpoint was overall survival; the statistical design required a median survival of ≥ 10 months for a regimen to be selected for subsequent phase III trial evaluation. The probability of correctly choosing the superior arm is 91% when the true hazard ratio is 1.3. Results: From July 2004 to June 2005, 225 eligible pts were enrolled into the study. Preliminary results are described below: Conclusions: At the time of this analysis, efficacy and toxicity were similar in the two treatment arms; both regimens were well tolerated. Assuming these results are sustained, the concurrent regimen of PCb + cetuximab has met the criteria for continued evaluation. A phase II trial of PCb + cetuximab + bevacizumab (B) is in development in anticipation of a phase III trial testing PCbB ± cetuximab. Molecular correlative studies of the EGFR signaling pathway are ongoing.

[Table: see text]

[Table: see text]

A placebo-controlled trial of etanercept, a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor, in patients with the cancer anorexia/weight loss syndrome. North Central Cancer Treatment Group (NCCTG) trial N00C1

8534

Purpose: Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a putative mediator of the cancer anorexia/weight loss syndrome. This study was designed to determine if etanercept (a dimeric fusion protein consisting of the extracellular ligand-binding portion of the human 75 kilodalton TNF receptor linked to the Fc portion of human IgG1) could palliate this syndrome. Methods: 63 evaluable patients were randomly assigned to etanercept 25 mg SQ twice/week versus a comparably-administered placebo, both of which were to be given for at least 12 weeks. All patients had an incurable malignancy, acknowledged loss of weight and/or appetite as a concern, and reported weight loss of > 5 pounds over 2 months and/or a daily intake of < 20 calories/kg body weight. The above sample size provided 81% power to detect a 24% difference in the percentage of patients who gained >/= 10% of baseline weight. Results: At baseline, groups were comparable on age, gender, tumor type, and degree of weight loss. Over time, weight gain was minimal in both groups; no patient gained >/= 10% baseline weight. Appetite questionnaires (the NCCTG Anorexia/Cachexia Questionnaire and FACT-AN) revealed negligible improvements in both groups. Median survival was comparable: 175 days versus 148 in etanercept-treated and placebo-exposed patients, respectively (p=0.82). Finally, preliminary data on adverse events showed that etanercept-treated patients had higher rates of neurotoxicity (29% versus 0%) but lower rates of anemia (0% versus 19%) and thrombocytopenia (0% versus 14%). Infection rates were negligible in both groups. Clinical correlative data on TNF genotyping will be available at the time of the meeting. Conclusion: This TNF inhibitor does not appear to palliate the cancer anorexia/weight loss syndrome. The study was supported by CA37404, the American Institute for Cancer Research, and Amgen.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Chemotherapy-naïve cancer patients’ expectations of developing treatment-related side effects: A URCC CCOP study of 670 patients from community practices

8509

Background: Adequate management of cancer related side effects is important for patients yet challenging for clinical staff. Cancer treatment side effects have been characterized reasonably well in the literature; however, less is known about the relationships among response expectancies, personal characteristics, and side effects development of chemotherapy-naïve patients undergoing doxorubicin treatments. Methods: The present sample included 701 cancer patients from 14 CCOP institutions affiliated with the URCC CCOP research base. Of the total sample, 670 patients provided evaluable data to an item that assessed expectations that they will develop side effects such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and hair loss. Patients indicated their expectations on a 5-point scale (from 1 = “I am certain I will NOT have this” to 5 = “I am certain I WILL have this”). Results: The median number of symptoms expected (any value other than 1) was 4. Hair loss was most expected (98%) and vomiting the least (87%). Older patients (> 53-years, N = 316, ) were less confident they would get nausea (Mold = 2.96, SE = 0.064; Myoung = 3.23, SE = 0.057, p < 0.01) and hair loss (Mold = 4.22, SD = 0.063; Myoung = 4.39, SE = 0.051, p < 0.05). Females (n = 633) were more confident they would get hair loss than males (Mfemale = 4.34, SE = 0.041; Mmale = 3.89, SE = 0.172, p < 0.05). Patients who had some college (n = 397) thought it was more likely they would get hair loss than patients with less education (Mcollege = 4.38, SE = 0.048; Mnocollege = 4.21, SE = 0.069, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Chemotherapy-naïve patients scheduled to take doxorubicin clearly exhibit expectations about treatment side effects, which are influenced by age, gender and education. The findings show that knowledge of patients’ response expectancies and personal characteristics should be considered and integrated into interventions to control treatment side effects. Supported, in part, by a supplement from the Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, NCI, to Public Health Service grant U10 CA37420 and by grant RSG-01-071-PBP from the ACS

[Table: see text]

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Phase II study of rituximab and cladribine (2-CDA) in newly diagnosed mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) (N0189)

17505

Background: A previous trial of 2-CDA as a single agent for therapy of mantle cell lymphoma demonstrated this agent to be efficacious with an overall response rate of 81% (31% complete responses) (Blood 1999 Nov 15; 94:660a). A phase II study of the addition of rituximab to 2-CDA was conducted by the North Central Cancer Treatment Group based on improved outcomes achieved by the addition of rituximab to other regimens active in MCL. Methods: This one-stage phase II study was designed to determine the complete response (CR) or complete response/unconfirmed (CRu) rate. Central pathology confirmation of cyclin D1 positive mantle cell lymphoma was required. No previous therapy for lymphoma was allowed, with the exception of splenectomy. The shedule was rituximab 375 mg/m2 IV day 1; 2-CDA 5 mg/m2/d IV days 1–5 of a 4-week cycle. After 2 of the first 6 patients developed grade 4 neutropenia, subsequent patients received either pegfilgrastim or filgrastim support. Patients received 2–6 cycles of therapy, depending on response. Patients were required to achieve at least a PR after 2 cycles of therapy to continue on protocol therapy. Results: Patient characteristics of all 29 eligible pts: median age: 70 (range: 41–86); 21 male, 8 female; PS 0 (55.2%), PS 1 (41.4%), PS 2 (3.5%); stage II (6.9%), stage III (3.5%), stage IV (89.7%); prior splenectomy (20.7%). The only grade 4 adverse event occurring more than once was neutropenia (20.7%). One patient died of cerebral ischemia in the setting of pneumonia without neutropenia. Response has been determined in 26 pts with 50.0% (95% CI: 30.0–70.0%) achieving a CR, none of whom have relapsed to date. Three patients progressed early at 17, 45, and 46 days, two of whom have died, and a fourth relapsed day 222. 10 pts (34.0%) went on to receive further therapy off study, 5 in less than a PR after 2 cycles, 2 in PR after study therapy, and 1 who went off study for a rash. At last contact, 26 (89.7%) were alive (median follow-up 10.7 months; range: 1–28). Conclusions: Rituximab and cladribine were well tolerated for the treatment of MCL in a group including elderly patients. The response rate may have been underestimated due to the study design, which required at least a PR after 2 cycles to continue therapy. Despite this, 50% achieved a complete remission.

[Table: see text]

Updated report of a phase III study of induction therapy with gemcitabine + carboplatin (GC) followed by either delayed vs. immediate second-line therapy with docetaxel (D) in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

7032

Background: GC is an active regimen in patients with advanced NSCLC. For non-progressors after induction treatment, optimal timing of sequential therapy is unclear. Is it best to sequence immediately to an active non-cross resistant agent or delay the introduction of this agent until time of disease progression (PD)? This trial was designed to answer this question. Methods: Pts with Stage IIIB or IV NSCLC were enrolled. G 1000mg/m2 was administered on day 1,8 followed by C at AUC 5.0 on day 1. After 4 cycles, non-progressers were then randomized to immediate D (75mg/m2 administered on day 1 every 3 wks) or delayed D (pts were observed until first evidence of PD). Conclusions: This study confirms that it is possible to deliver docetaxel immediately following four cycles of GC without significantly increasing toxicity. The response rate of 42.1% and clinical benefit rate (CR+PR+SD) of 88.2% observed in the immediate D arm compares favorably with the rates of 6.1% and 60.6% of the delayed D arm. Additional toxicity and response information will be available at the time of the meeting.

[Table: see text]

[Table: see text]

Docetaxel and capecitabine in patients with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the stomach and gastroesophageal junction: a phase II study from the North Central Cancer Treatment Group

BACKGROUND

Previous studies suggest that the combination of docetaxel and capecitabine are worthy of further testing in patients with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the stomach and gastroesophageal junction. We therefore undertook this phase II study to test this combination in a multi-institutional, first-line clinical trial.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Forty-four eligible patients with histologic or cytologic confirmation of the above malignancy were recruited. The cohort had Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance scores of 0, 1 and 2 in 59%, 39% and 2% of patients, respectively. Median age was 57 years (range 32-77 years). Adequate organ function was a requirement for study entry. All patients were prescribed docetaxel 75 mg/m2 intravenously on day 1 and capecitabine 825 mg/m2 orally twice a day on days 1-14 of a 21-day cycle.

RESULTS

The tumor response rate was 39% [95% confidence interval (CI) 23% to 55%]. There were two complete responses and the rest were partial. Median survival was 9.4 months (95% CI 6.3-10.7 months) and median time-to-tumor progression was 4.2 months (95% CI 3.6-5.6 months). There was one treatment-related death from a myocardial infarction and dysrhythmia. Commonly occurring grade 3 adverse events included neutropenia (11 patients), infection (five patients), constipation (three patients), thrombosis (three patients), dyspnea (three patients) and hand-foot syndrome (three patients). In addition, 24/45 patients developed grade 4 neutropenia.

CONCLUSIONS

The regimen docetaxel and capecitabine shows activity in patients with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the stomach and gastroesophageal junction. This regimen merits further study.

Cyclophosphamide followed by fludarabine for untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia: a phase II SWOG TRIAL 9706

B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) accounts for 95% of chronic leukemia cases and 25% of all leukemia. Despite the prevalence of CLL, progress in its treatment has been only modest over the past three decades. Based upon the ability of fludarabine to produce high-grade remissions especially among patients with low initial tumor mass, and the ability of alkylators to reduce tumor mass, we hypothesized that sequential administration of a limited number of cycles of intermediate-dose cyclophosphamide followed by fludarabine could result in a larger percentage of patients with complete remissions (CRs). In all, 27 of the 49 eligible patients achieved overall responses of CR, unconfirmed complete remission (UCR), or PR, for a total response rate of 55% (95% confidence interval (CI) 40-69%). Considering the confounding medical issues of this patient population with advanced aggressive disease, the regimen was generally well tolerated. This study demonstrates that high-dose cyclophosphamide followed by fludarabine was relatively well tolerated in this group of advanced CLL patients. The study's criterion for testing whether the regimen is sufficiently effective to warrant further investigation was met: 14 (32%) of the first 44 eligible patients achieved CR or UCR.