Abstract GS6-02: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of oxybutynin (Oxy) for hot flashes (HF): ACCRU study SC-1603

Background: HF occur in about 75% of midlife women and are associated with quality of life disruption and premature endocrine therapy discontinuation among breast cancer survivors. Estrogen therapy, effective for HF, is contraindicated in hormone receptor-positive breast cancer (BC). Previous studies have suggested that Oxy could be effective in managing HF.

Methods: This randomized, placebo (P)-controlled trial enrolled women who had experienced HF ≥28 times per week over >30 days and of sufficient severity to seek treatment. Patients (pts) were randomized to receive oral Oxy at two doses: 2.5mg BID for 6 weeks (Oxy2.5), 2.5mg BID for a week with subsequent increase to 5mg BID (Oxy5), or matching P, in equal ratios. Baseline and monthly questionnaires were administered including a HF diary, the HF related daily interference scale (HFRDIS) and a symptom experience questionnaire. The primary endpoint was intra-patient change in weekly HF score and frequency from baseline to end of study compared using Kruskal-Wallis tests.

Results: 150 pts were accrued between 2/23/2017-3/5/2018. 4 pts cancelled before starting treatment and were excluded from analyses. This interim report includes the first 104 pts for which at least one post-baseline evaluation was available. Baseline characteristics were well-balanced between the arms. Sixty-two percent were on tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor for the duration of the study. Pts on both Oxy doses had a significantly greater reduction in HF score and frequency compared to P. Pts on Oxy2.5 had a mean change in HF score of -10 (SD 7.4) vs -5.1 (SD 9.7) with P, p=0.003; and a mean change in average weekly number of HF of -4.6 (SD 3.1) vs -2.3 (SD 3.9), p=0.002. Pts on Oxy5 had a mean change in HF score of -16.2 (SD 5.1) vs -5.1 (SD 9.7) with P, p<0.001; and a mean change in average weekly number of HF of -7.0 (SD 4.0) vs -2.3 (SD 3.9), p<0.001. Repeated measures mixed models confirmed that, after adjusting for baseline values, both Oxy arms had significantly lower HF scores and frequency compared to P (p<0.001). HFRDIS revealed that pts in both Oxy arms experienced improvement in the following HF interference measures: work, social activities, leisure activities, sleep, relations, life enjoyment, and overall quality of life. Pts on Oxy5 also had improvement in HF interference with mood. Pts on Oxy2.5 experienced more stomach pain (p=0.031), diarrhea (p=0.007), nausea (p=0.04), headaches (0.032), episodes of confusion (0.012), dry mouth (p=0.003) and dry eyes (0.027) compared to P. Pts on Oxy5 experienced more constipation (0.004), dry mouth (0.001) and difficulty urinating (0.004) compared to P. There were no differences in study discontinuation due to adverse effects between either Oxy arm and P (Oxy2.5 vs P, p=0.653; Oxy5 vs P, p=0.483).

Conclusions: Oxy is superior to P for management of HF. Oxy2.5 and 5 were both associated with significant improvements in HF scores and frequency as well as improvement in HF interference with several quality of life measures. While pts on Oxy experienced more side effects than pts on P, rates of discontinuation due to adverse events were low.

This study was supported by the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Citation Format: Leon-Ferre RA, Novotny PJ, Faubion SS, Ruddy KJ, Flora D, Dakhil C, Rowland KM, Graham ML, Le-Lindqwister N, Loprinzi CL. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of oxybutynin (Oxy) for hot flashes (HF): ACCRU study SC-1603 [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr GS6-02.

A double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial of creatine for the cancer anorexia/weight loss syndrome (N02C4): an Alliance trial

BACKGROUND

Multiple pilot studies, including one in colorectal cancer patients, suggest that creatine, an amino acid derivative, augments muscle, improves strength, and thereby could palliate the cancer anorexia/weight loss syndrome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, incurable patients with this syndrome were assigned creatine (20 g/day load×5 days followed by 2 g/day orally) versus identical placebo. Patients were weighed once a week for 1 month and then monthly. Patients were also assessed over 1 month for appetite and quality of life (validated questionnaires), fist grip strength, body composition (bioelectrical impedance), and adverse events. The primary endpoint was 10% or greater weight gain from baseline during the first month.

RESULTS

Within this combined cohort of 263 evaluable patients (134 received creatine and 129 placebo), only 3 gained ≥10% of their baseline weight by 1 month: two creatine-treated and the other placebo-exposed (P = 1.00). Questionnaire data on appetite, quality of life, and activities of daily living showed no statistically significant differences between groups. Similarly, no statistically significant differences between groups were observed for fist-grip strength or body composition. Rates and severity of adverse events were comparable between groups. Finally, a median survival of 230 and 239 days were observed in the creatine and placebo groups, respectively (P = 0.70).

CONCLUSION

Creatine, as prescribed in this trial, had no effect on the cancer anorexia/weight loss syndrome.

Abstract P1-12-06: N0937 (Alliance): Preliminary results of a phase II clinical trial of cisplatin and the novel agent brostallicin in patients with metastatic triple negative breast cancer (mTNBC)

Background: TNBC is characterized by unique molecular profiles, aggressive behavior, poor prognosis and lack of targeted therapies. Brostallicin is a novel synthetic compound from the class of DNA minor groove binding (MGB) anti-cancer agents, making it a logical agent to evaluate in the setting of TNBC. It retains activity in cancer cells resistant to alkylating agents, topoisomerase I inhibitors and is fully active against DNA-mismatch repair deficient tumor cells. Preclinical models using cell lines demonstrate that cells expressing relatively high glutathione/glutathione S-transferase (GSH/GST) levels are more susceptible to brostallicin's antitumor efficacy. Cisplatin administration increases expression of GSH/GST in tumor cells, thus leading to an increased anti-tumor efficacy of brostallicin.

Methods: Phase II cooperative group study in pts with mTNBC (³18 years of age with measurable metastatic disease, ER/PR ≤1%; HER2 negative, who had received 0–4 prior chemotherapy regimens in the metastatic setting; with adequate hematologic, renal and hepatic functions; and no active CNS metastases; prior exposure to cisplatin allowed). Cisplatin on Day 1 followed by brostallicin on Day 2, repeated every 21 days. Aim: efficacy of brostallicin and proof of concept of its mechanism of action in mTNBC. Primary endpoint progression-free survival (PFS) at 3 months with 89% power (0.10 significance level) to detect an absolute difference of 20% (35% vs 55%), based on the median PFS of 60 days in pts with mTNBC from the N0234 trial of erlotinib and gemcitabine as 1st/2nd line. Secondary endpoints include ORR, duration of response (DOR), 6-month PFS, OS and AE profile. Tertiary endpoints include assessment of 1) GSH levels prior to the administration of cisplatin and of brostallicin; and 2) the prevalence of BCRA-1 mutation by IHC in primary or metastatic tumor.

Results: Study closed on 3/28/12 and it accrued 48 pts (median f/u 2.3 mo; 0–15.3); 33 pts are off treatment and 15 pts remain on study; 38 pts evaluable for response, and 43 evaluable for AEs. 50% received therapy as 3rd to 5th line. Median number of cycles 2.5 (off-treatment: 2; on-treatment: 3, range 0–15). There are currently 5 confirmed responses (4 PR and 1 CR); DOR: 2.8–13.3 months. The 6-mo PFS is currently 19.2% (95% CI: 8.9%, 41.3%); the median TTP is 3.0 months (95% CI: 1.7 months, 4.2 months). Current data are premature to determine the primary endpoint (3-mo PFS) but we expect to report such data by November 2012. Current toxicity data: 69.7% G3/4 heme toxicity. Non-heme toxicity G3 (30.2%) and G4 (9.3)% (febrile neutropenia 21%; fatigue G3 14%); and no G5 non-heme AE.

Conclusions: The current preliminary data of this trial show very encouraging activity of this regimen (brostallicin plus cisplatin) in mTNBC. Near 1/3 of pts are still currently receiving therapy, and we expect to provide primary and additional secondary endpoint data at SABCS 2012.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2012;72(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P1-12-06.

OT3-01-14: N0937: Phase II Trial of Brostallicin and Cisplatin in Patients with Metastatic Triple Negative Breast Cancer

Background

Tumors that are negative for estrogen and progesterone receptors and do not over express HER2 are referred as “triple negative” breast cancer (TNBC). These tumors are characterized by unique molecular profiles on gene expression arrays, aggressive behavior with a high recurrence rate, an increased risk of visceral metastases, poor prognosis and lack of targeted therapies. Brostallicin is a novel synthetic compound from the class of DNA minor groove binding (MGB) anti-cancer agents. It retains activity in cancer cells resistant to alkylating agents, topoisomerase I inhibitors and is fully active against DNA-mismatch repair deficient tumor cells. Cells expressing relatively high glutathione/glutathione S-transferase (GSH/GST) levels are more susceptible to brostallicin antitumor efficacy. Cisplatin administration increases expression of GST in tumor cells leading to an increased anti-tumor efficacy of brostallicin.

Trial design: Single-stage phase II study — based on the effects of cisplatin on GSH/GST levels in preclinical models, the most reasonable sequence to explore was cisplatin on Day 1 followed by brostallicin on Day 2 repeated every 21 days.

Eligibility criteria: Women or men ≥18 years of age with confirmed adenocarcinoma of the breast with clinical evidence of measurable metastatic disease and triple negative subtype according to current ASCO CAP guidelines [ER/PR ≤1%; HER2 negative), who received 0–4 prior chemotherapy regimens in the metastatic setting; with adequate hematologic, renal and hepatic functions; and no active CNS metastases.

Aims: To study the efficacy of the novel drug, brostallicin, as well as to serve as proof of concept of its mechanism of action in TNBC. The primary endpoint is to evaluate clinical efficacy of the combination of brostallicin and cisplatin in the treatment of patients with metastatic TNBC, as measured by progression-free survival (PFS) at 3 months with 89% power (0.10 significance level) to detect an absolute difference of 20%. Secondary endpoints include ORR by RECIST, duration of response, 6-month PFS, overall survival (OS) and adverse event profile. Tertiary endpoints include assessment of 1) GSH levels prior to the administration of cisplatin and of brostallicin; and 2) the prevalence of BCRA-1 mutation by IHC in the primary or metastatic tumor.

Statistical methods: The largest 3-month PFS proportion where the proposed treatment regimen would be considered ineffective in this population was estimated at 35% based on the median PFS of 60 days in patients with metastatic TNBC enrolled in the N0234 trial (erlotinib and gemcitabine as 1st/2nd line), and the smallest 3-month PFS success proportion that may warrant subsequent studies with the proposed regimen in this patient population was estimated at 55%. The interim analysis will be reported when the 20th eligible patient has been followed for 3 months.

Present accrual and target accrual: 21 patients have been accrued at the time of abstract submission (June 2011). Target accrual is 42 evaluable patients.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2011;71(24 Suppl):Abstract nr OT3-01-14.

A phase II study of cetuximab and radiation in elderly and/or poor performance status patients with locally advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (N0422)

BACKGROUND

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a disease of the elderly. Seeking a tolerable but effective regimen, we tested cetuximab + radiation in elderly and/or poor performance status patients with locally advanced NSCLC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Older patients [≥ 65 years with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 0, 1, or 2] or younger patients (performance status of 2) received cetuximab 400 mg/m(2) i.v. on day 1 followed by weekly cetuximab 250 mg/m(2) i.v. with concomitant radiation of 6000 cGy in 30 fractions. The primary end point was the percentage who lived 11+ months.

RESULTS

This 57-patient cohort had a median age (range) of 77 years (60-87), and 12 (21%) had a performance status of 2. Forty of 57 (70%) lived 11+ months, thus exceeding the anticipated survival rate of 50%. The median survival was 15.1 months [95% confidence interval (CI) 13.1-19.3 months], and the median time to cancer progression was 7.2 months (95% CI 5.8-8.6 months). No treatment-related deaths occurred, but 31 patients experienced grade 3+ adverse events, most commonly fatigue, anorexia, dyspnea, rash, and dysphagia, each of which occurred in <10% of patients.

CONCLUSION

This combination merits further study in this group of patients.

A randomized, phase III multicenter trial of gemcitabine in combination with carboplatin or paclitaxel versus paclitaxel plus carboplatin in patients with advanced or metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Paclitaxel-carboplatin is used as the standard regimen for patients with advanced or metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This trial was designed to compare gemcitabine + carboplatin or gemcitabine + paclitaxel to the standard regimen.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 1135 chemonaive patients with stage IIIB or IV NSCLC were randomly allocated to receive gemcitabine 1000 mg/m(2) on days 1 and 8 plus carboplatin area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) 5.5 on day 1 (GC), gemcitabine 1000 mg/m(2) on days 1 and 8 plus paclitaxel 200 mg/m(2) on day 1 (GP), or paclitaxel 225 mg/m(2) plus carboplatin AUC 6.0 on day 1 (PC). Stratification was based on disease stage, baseline weight loss, and presence or absence of brain metastases. Cycles were repeated every 21 days for up to six cycles or disease progression.

RESULTS

Median survival (months) with GC was 7.9 compared with 8.5 for GP and 8.7 for PC. Response rates (RRs) were as follows: GC, 25.3%; GP, 32.1%; and PC, 29.8%. The GC arm was associated with a greater incidence of grade 3 or 4 hematologic events but a lower rate of neurotoxicity and alopecia when compared with GP and PC.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-platinum and non-paclitaxel gemcitabine-containing doublets demonstrate similar overall survival and RR compared with the standard PC regimen. However, the treatment arms had distinct toxicity profiles.

The use of vitamin E for prevention of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: A phase III double-blind, placebo controlled study—N05C31

9532

Background: Chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) continues to be a substantial problem for many cancer patients (pts). Pursuant to promising appearing pilot data, the current study evaluated the use of vitamin E for the prevention of CIPN. Methods: A phase III, randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled study was conducted in pts undergoing therapy with neurotoxic chemotherapy, utilizing twice daily dosing of vitamin E (400mg)/placebo. The primary endpoint was the incidence of grade 2+ sensory neuropathy (SN) toxicity (CTCAE v 3.0) in each treatment arm, analyzed by Chi-square testing. Major eligibility criteria included: planned curative intent adjuvant chemotherapy with neurotoxic chemotherapy, ≥ 18 years of age, ECOG PS of ≤2, no existing peripheral neuropathy or coronary artery disease, no prior treatment with neurotoxic chemotherapy, and no concurrent treatment with neuropathic or opioid pain medication. Planned sample size was 100 patients per arm, to provide 80% power to detect a difference in incidence of grade 2+ SN toxicity from 25% in the placebo group to 10% in the vitamin E group. Results: Two-hundred seven pts were enrolled between 12/01/2006 and 12/14/2007. Cytotoxic agents included taxanes (109), cisplatin (8), carboplatin (2), oxaliplatin (50) or combination (20). Eleven pts canceled prior to starting treatment and there were 7 ineligible pts on study. Thus there were 189 evaluable pts included in the current analysis. In this analysis, there was no difference in the incidence of grade 2+ SN between the 2 arms (vitamin E- 34% [95% CI- 25.0–44.8%] placebo- 29% [20.1–39.4%]; P=0.43). There, likewise, were no significant differences between treatment arms for time to onset of neuropathy (P= 0.72), for chemotherapy dose reductions due to neuropathy (P= 0.21) or patient questionnaire reported neuropathy symptoms. The treatment was well tolerated overall. Conclusions: Vitamin E did not appear to reduce the incidence of sensory neuropathy in the studied group of patients receiving neurotoxic chemotherapy but it appeared to be well tolerated.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

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, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of gabapentin in the management of hot flashes in men (N00CB)

INTRODUCTION

Hot flashes represent a significant problem in men undergoing androgen deprivation therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Via a prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, men with hot flashes, on a stable androgen deprivation therapy program for prostate cancer, received a placebo or gabapentin at target doses of 300, 600, or 900 mg/day. Hot flash frequencies and severities were recorded daily during a baseline week and for 4 weeks while the patients took the study medication.

RESULTS

In the 214 eligible patients who began the study drug on this trial, comparing the fourth treatment week to the baseline week, mean hot flash scores decreased in the placebo group by 4.1 units and in the three increasing dose gabapentin groups by, 3.2, 4.6, and 7.0 units. Comparing the three combined gabapentin arms to the placebo arm did not result in significant hot flash differences. Wilcoxon rank-sum P values for change in hot flash scores and frequencies after 4 weeks of treatment were 0.10 and 0.02, comparing the highest dose gabapentin arm to the placebo arm, respectively. The gabapentin was well tolerated in this trial.

CONCLUSION

These results support that gabapentin decreases hot flashes, to a moderate degree, in men with androgen ablation-related vasomotor dysfunction.

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) as a diagnostic tool for the real-time intraoperative assessment of breast cancer surgical margins

Abstract #802

Background: The decrease in the number of breast cancer deaths has largely been attributed to increased awareness, earlier detection, and improved treatment options. However, as the number of breast-conserving surgeries rose over the years, the need for negative margins and little or no residual disease has become critical to help reduce the chances of local recurrence. OCT is a high resolution imaging modality that has been used to image tumor margins in an NMU-carcinogen-induced rat mammary tumor model. Due to the location of breast lesions, the use of needle-based imaging probes may be used to further extend the reach of the OCT imaging beam by incorporating an optical fiber into biopsy needle tips, providing real-time information to guide biopsies or to place localization wires.&#x2028; Material & Methods: A clinical spectral domain OCT system was developed with a super luminescent diode light source centered at 1310 nm with a bandwidth of 92 nm yielding an axial resolution of 8.3 µm. The beam delivery sample arm uses a 60 mm achromatic lens to focus 4.75 mW of light to a 35.0 µm spot size (transverse resolution) with a confocal parameter of 1.47 mm. The patients included in this study had primary breast tumors diagnosed by needle-biopsy and were in need of surgical resection, as determined by their physicians. At Carle Foundation Hospital, the OCT system was placed inside the operating room during breast conserving surgical procedures to image the tissue specimens. The OCT images were evaluated by a single operator allowing for consistent classification based on the level of scattering intensity and heterogeneity, scattering profile, and physical extent of the highly scattering area.&#x2028; Results: An initial training data set of OCT images from 17 patients was used to establish standard imaging protocols and standard evaluation criteria of the surgical margins. Of the 20 additional tissue specimen imaged for the feasibility study, 11 were identified as having a positive or close surgical margin and nine as a negative margin under OCT. In comparing to the H&E histology, there were 9 true positives, 9 true negatives, 2 false positives, and 0 false negatives yielding a sensitivity of 82% and specificity of 100%.&#x2028; Discussion: With an imaging penetration depth of 2-3 mm, equivalent to that used for histological assessment, OCT provides unique real-time cellular-level imaging to identify positive and close margins. In these studies, areas of higher scattering tissue with an irregular or heterogeneous pattern were identified, differentiating them from the abundant adipose tissue found in normal breast tissue. The small nucleus to cytoplasm (N/C) ratio is observed with low-scattering adipocytes compared with the larger N/C ratio found from highly-scattering tumor cells. These intraoperative imaging studies have demonstrated the ability for OCT to identify positive surgical margins.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr 802.

Meta-analysis of adverse event rates in 15 North Central Cancer Treatment Group phase II metastatic breast cancer clinical trials for the development of adverse event stopping rules

Abstract #6149

Background: Internal Review Boards and Data and Safety Monitoring Boards often require protocol-specified adverse event (AE) stopping rules for safety monitoring. However, availability of safety data for investigational agent(s) may be limited at the time of protocol development in the phase II setting. This meta-analysis was undertaken to quantify the variability of AE rates in North Central Cancer Treatment Group (NCCTG) phase II metastatic breast cancer (MBC) clinical trials and to investigate whether study factors are associated with AE rates for the development of AE stopping rules in future phase II clinical trials.&#x2028; Methods: All closed NCCTG phase II MBC clinical trials using CTC v2.0 or CTCAE v3.0 for AE monitoring were selected. Rates of G3/4 AEs (overall, hematologic [H], and non-hematologic [NH]) and of study discontinuation [SD] due to AEs were calculated for each trial. Associations between study factors [number of agents (single vs combination); line of therapy (first-line only vs other); and type of therapy (chemotherapy vs other)] and AE rates were assessed via Wilcoxon rank sum tests.&#x2028; Results: 15 trials met inclusion criteria. 7 used CTCAE v3.0; 6 investigated single agents; 5 investigated first-line therapy; and 11 investigated chemotherapy regimens. 694 pts were evaluable for AE analysis. The G3/4 AE rate across trials was 68% (16-98%) overall, 45% (0-96%) H, and 51% (16-78%) NH. The overall rate of SD due to AEs was 13% (0-40%). The overall rate of G3/4 AEs was significantly lower in single agents vs combination regimens (30% vs 86%, p=0.004). This association held for H (2% vs 66%, p&lt;0.0001) and NH (27% vs 57%, p=0.03) Aes. The rate of SD due to AEs was also significantly lower in single agents vs combination regimens (0.5% vs 15%, p=0.04). The rate of G3/4 AEs was significantly higher in first-line only trials vs other trials (overall: 90% vs 47%, p=0.04; H: 73% vs 5%, p=0.02; NH: 66% vs 41%, p=0.08). The rate of SD due to AEs was also significantly higher in first-line only trials (18% vs 4%, p=0.008). The only significant association with chemotherapy vs other therapy was G3/4 H AE rates (51% vs 2%, p=0.02).&#x2028; Discussion: High variability in G3/4 AE rates overall and in H and NH AEs was noted in these 15 trials. There is also high variability in the rates of SD due to AEs. The data suggest that clinical trials with single agent regimens have lower AE rates than combination regimens and, surprisingly, trials of first-line therapy only have higher AE rates than other trials. This may be due to more aggressive therapy being tested in the first-line setting. Although data from previous trials with the investigational agent(s) should be used for developing AE stopping rules when available, this study suggests that study factors such as number of agents and line of therapy can be useful when previous data are limited.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr 6149.

Comparison of binary efficacy endpoints in 11 North Central Cancer Treatment Group phase II metastatic breast cancer clinical trials

Abstract #6147

Background: Phase II metastatic breast cancer (MBC) clinical trials evaluating efficacy of cancer treatments are often designed using a binary primary endpoint (i.e., each evaluable patient [pt] is classified as a “success” or “failure”). In the era of novel agents in cancer research, endpoints such as 6-month progression-free survival [PFS6] for measuring efficacy of cytostatic agents are more commonly being used. This meta-analysis was undertaken to compare two binary classifications of PFS6 and to compare these binary endpoints with other efficacy endpoints in the phase II setting.&#x2028; Material and Methods: All closed North Central Cancer Treatment Group (NCCTG) phase II MBC clinical trials using Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) with at least 1 year of follow-up since last pt accrued were selected. All eligible pts initiating treatment were included. Two binary classifications of PFS6 were computed for each trial. Success for PFS6-1 is defined as on study treatment 6 months from registration without documentation of disease progression. Success for PFS6-2 does not require a pt to be on study treatment at 6 months. Also computed for each trial are Kaplan-Meier (KM) estimates of PFS6 (PFS6-KM) and 1-year overall survival (OS1-KM). Trial-level endpoints were summarized using descriptive statistics and compared using weighted (by trial sample sizes) Pearson correlations. Lastly, the concordance rate of PFS6-1 and PFS6-2 status with OS status at 1 year at the pt level was computed across all pts (pts censored for OS prior to one year were excluded [n=10]).&#x2028; Results: 11 trials met inclusion criteria. All trials required measurable disease and had a single arm. 485 evaluable pts were accrued (median 48 pts per trial [range 19-77]). Median PFS6-1 was 27% (range 10-44%) and median PFS6-2 was 34% (range 10-73%). The median trial-level difference between PFS6-1 and PFS6-2 was 5% (range 0-43%). The correlation between PFS6-1 and PFS6-2 was 0.81 (p&lt;0.01). Among the endpoints, PFS6-2 and PFS6-KM had the highest correlation (&gt;0.99, p&lt;0.01) due to only 2 pts being censored for PFS prior to 6 months. Among the PFS endpoints, OS1-KM was most highly correlated with PFS6-1 (0.79, p&lt;0.01) with the correlations with PFS6-2 and PFS6-KM not being statistically different from zero (both 0.59 with p&gt;0.05). However, overall patient-level concordance between PFS6 status and OS status at 1 year was higher using PFS6-2 (68%) than PFS6-1 (59%).&#x2028; Discussion: Differences were observed between the two binary classifications of PFS6. PFS6 with (as compared to without) the requirement that a pt be on study treatment at 6 months appears to have higher correlation with OS at 1 year at the trial level but lower concordance with OS status at 1 year at the pt level. Selection of the historical control should take into consideration the definition of PFS6 being used.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr 6147.

Aerosolized sargramostim for the treatment of metastatic melanoma to the lungs

8565

Background: Previous studies using low-dose (250 ug/dose) aerosolized sargramostim (granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor: aero-GM-CSF) for the treatment of metastatic melanoma, revealed anecdotal clinical responses that appeared to correlate with an increase in the number of tumor specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) in blood. Herein, we address whether or not further dose escalation of aero-GM-CSF is safe, results in greater increase of melanoma specific CTLs, and affects clinical outcomes. Methods: A 5+5 dose escalation clinical trial was conducted to determine the dose of aero-GM-CSF that would increase in the frequency of peripheral blood melanoma specific CTLs in HLA-A2+ patients with metastatic melanoma to the lungs. Aero-GM-CSF was administered twice daily on days 1–7 and 15–21 of a 28 day cycle at doses of: 500, 750, 1,000, 1,250, 1,500, 1,750, and 2,000 ug per cohort. If at most 2 of 5 patients at a dose level reported a 5-fold increase in CTLs, dose escalation occurred. If not, 5 additional patients were treated at that dose. Dose escalation continued until =2 of 5 patients at a dose level developed severe toxicity, at least 7 of the 10 patients at a dose level reported a 5-fold increase in CTLs, or all dose levels were exhausted. Results: The study accrued 40 patients from August 2002 to July 2006. Four patients cancelled participation prior to treatment. One patient was replaced (500 ug) as he died within 13 days of registration. Among the 35 remaining patients, median age was 58 (23–84), 72% were male, and 72% had a PS=0. Dose escalation was not terminated due to toxicity. Toxicities = grade 3 (at least probably treatment related) included: grade 3 fatigue (1) at 1,000 ug; and grade 3 cough (1), and grade 4 dyspnea (1) at 1,750 ug. At the 2,000 ug dose, most patients (4 of 5) exhibited a greater than 2-fold increase in melanoma specific CTLs. Two of these patients remain on treatment: one with partial response at 14.0 months and the other with stable disease at 6.5 months. A 5-fold increase in tumor specific CTLs was not achieved in any patient. Conclusions: Aero-GM-CSF therapy administered at up to 2,000 ug/dose appears safe and seems to correlate with increased frequencies of tumor specific CTLs in a dose-dependent fashion. Further dose escalation followed by clinical efficacy testing is warranted.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Gabapentin for hot flashes in men: NCCTG trial N00CB

9005

Background: Hot flashes can be a major problem in men with prostate cancer; effective non-hormonal options are needed. Methods: A four-arm, double-blinded, placebo-controlled randomized trial was developed to evaluate gabapentin for hot flashes. Men with bothersome hot flashes (at least 14/week) related to androgen deprivation therapy were randomized to receive either a placebo or gabapentin doses of 300 mg qd, 300 mg bid or 300 mg tid; men were treated for 4 weeks. Hot flashes numbers and scores (hot flash number times mean severity) were measured using a validated daily hot flashes diary. A one-week baseline period preceded initiation of study tablets. The primary endpoint was the average intrapatient difference in hot flash score between baseline and treatment termination. With the planned sample size of 50 evaluable patients per arm, the study provided 80% power to detect a difference in change from baseline at 4 weeks between each gabapentin arm and the placebo arm of 1.3 hot flashes per day or 3.3 points in hot flash score. Results: 223 patients were randomized between 12/21/2001 and 11/10/2006. The study arms were well balanced. The following table illustrates the percentage of baseline hot flash scores and frequencies during the fourth treatment week, compared to the baseline week for 179 eligible patients, utilizing the data available at time of this abstract preparation. Patients receiving 900 mg/d dose of gabapentin also reported significantly less hot flash distress and more hot flash control satisfaction than did the placebo group. The gabapentin was remarkably well tolerated, without any statistically significantly worse patient-reported side effects on the gabapentin arms. Conclusion: Gabapentin at the 900 mg/d dose can reduce hot flashes, in men receiving androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

[Table: see text]

A front-line window of opportunity phase II study of sorafenib in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer: A North Central Cancer Treatment Group study

7547

Background: Sorafenib is a multikinase inhibitor with single-agent activity in previously treated NSCLC. In an effort to evaluate its single agent activity in previously untreated NSCLC, the NCCTG undertook a front-line “window of opportunity” study. Materials and Methods: Patients with stage IIIB (pleural effusion) or stage IV NSCLC received sorafenib dosed at 400 mg BID continuously, with a cycle defined as 4 weeks. Patients were evaluated weekly during the first 2 cycles with those who progressed rapidly going on to receive standard chemotherapy. Based on a two-stage Fleming design, if only at most 1 confirmed response was observed in the first 20 patients enrolled to stage I, the regimen would be considered ineffective. If 2 or more responses were observed, the study would proceed to stage 2 and accrue an additional 22 patients. If 5 or more confirmed responses were observed, the regimen would be recommended for further testing. Results: The study did not meet the stage I efficacy criteria (only 1 confirmed partial response in the first 20 patients) and was permanently closed after enrolling 25 evaluable patients [15 females, 10 males; 4 stage IIIB, 21 stage IV; median age 67 (45–85)]. 2 patients are still receiving treatment (14 and 15 months). No grade 3 or higher hematologic adverse events were observed. Thirteen (52%) patients had a grade 3 non-hematologic adverse event with fatigue (20%), diarrhea (8%), and dyspnea (8%) being the most common. There was one grade 4 pulmonary hemorrhage. A total of 3 (12%) PRs; and 7 (28%) SD were observed in the 25 patients 7 (28%) patients were progression- free at 24 weeks. Median survival and median time to progression were 8.8 and 2.9 months respectively. Conclusion: While the pre- specified efficacy endpoints were not met, the objective response rate of 12% and median survival of 8.8 months suggest that single agent sorafenib has activity similar to two-drug combinations. The feasibility and utility of the “window of opportunity” design in estimating the activity of novel compounds was demonstrated. Finally, the single-agent activity of sorafenib argues for combination studies with standard chemotherapy agents.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Real-time optical biopsy and analysis of breast cancer using clinical optical coherence tomography

10508

Background: Advances in high-resolution, real-time, optical imaging have enabled optical coherence tomography (OCT) for non-excisional optical biopsies of breast tissue. OCT is the optical analogue to ultrasound imaging, with resolution approaching that of histology. In breast tissue, regions of tumor, tumor margins, abnormal ducts, and foci of tumor cells can be identified based on increased scattering and morphological appearance. We have developed a portable clinical OCT system along with image criteria for identifying breast cancer in real-time during needle-biopsy and surgical-biopsy procedures. Methods: Over 4,000 depth-resolved OCT axial scans were extracted from over 50 cross-sectional OCT images from 9 ex vivo specimens of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) of the human breast. OCT image data was acquired in real-time within 6 hours of surgical resection using a state-of-the-art OCT system with micron resolution. Imaged sites were marked for registration with hematoxylin and eosin-stained histology. Axial scan data was analyzed using frequency-domain analysis techniques to classify regions as tumor, stroma, or adipose tissue. OCT images of tissue types were compared with histological observations. Results: Real-time OCT images of microscopic breast cancer morphology showed strong correlations with corresponding histology, including regions of tumor, tumor margins, ducts, and adipose tissue. Computational frequency-domain analysis of depth-resolved axial scan data classified tissue types as tumor, stroma, and adipose with 91% sensitivity and 87% specificity. Conclusions: Optical biopsy of breast cancer with OCT is feasible for imaging at resolutions approaching histology. Frequency- domain analysis of axial scan data can be used to classify breast tissue types with a sensitivity and specificity that are comparable to or surpasses that of conventional mammography and ultrasound imaging of human DCIS. Clinical OCT imaging has the potential for real-time guidance and diagnostics in needle- or surgical-biopsy of breast cancer.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

A phase II trial of perifosine in locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Perifosine, a heterocyclic alkylphosphocholine signal transduction inhibitor, has activity against multiple cell types in vitro. This is a phase II study to determine activity and toxicity of perifosine in pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Previously untreated patients with locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma, performance status Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group 0 or 1, were enrolled. An oral loading dose of 900 mg was followed by 100 mg per day until progression or unacceptable toxicity. Response criteria in solid tumors (RECIST) methodology and a 2-stage design were used. Suspension could occur for inadequate response in the first cohort or for more than 25% grade 3 or greater toxicity.

RESULTS

Ten patients were enrolled. Six received 1 month and 4 received 2 months of treatment. Four discontinued therapy as a result of progression and 2 because of clinical deterioration. Three died during treatment. One patient had stable disease but discontinued therapy as a result of unacceptable adverse events (95% confidence interval: 0.3-45%). There were no objective responses and all patients died of progressive disease. Median overall and progression-free survival was 1.85 months (95% confidence interval: 0.9-2.7) and 1.5 months (95% confidence interval: 0.9-1.9) respectively.

CONCLUSION

The study was suspended and subsequently terminated as a result of unacceptable adverse events during the first stage. Perifosine does not appear to be worthy of further study in this group of patients.

BAY 43–9006 as single oral agent in patients with metastatic breast cancer previously exposed to anthracycline and/or taxane

577

Background: BAY 43–9006 targets the ras/raf signaling pathway and inhibits VEGFR-2, VEGFR-3 and or PDGFR-β growth factors. A study was conducted to assess anti-tumor activity and the toxicity profile in patients (pts) with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Methods: A two-stage phase II study was conducted with pts with MBC who had measurable disease and were candidates for 1st or 2nd line chemotherapy and had previously received an anthracycline and/or a taxane in the neoadjuvant, adjuvant, or metastatic setting. Pts started with a dose of 400 mg twice daily on days 1–28 of each 4 week cycle. Based on interval adverse events (AEs), a dose reduction was considered as 400 mg given one time daily. Primary endpoint was tumor response defined as a complete or partial response (PR) according to RESIST. The study required 40 pts, but was to be terminated if 0 or 1 responses occurred among 1st 20 eligible pts. Results: 23 pts enrolled with a median age of 54 (range 37–70) but 3 were declared ineligible. All 23 pts were included in all analyses except efficacy analysis as stated per protocol. Fifteen (65%) had visceral metastasis; 22 (96%) had prior anthracycline treatment (tx); 16 (70%) had prior taxane tx.; 10 (44%) had received prior chemotherapy for metastatic disease and 14 (61%) had a prior relapse free interval of 12 months (mos) or more. Pts received tx for a median of 2 cycles (range 1–8) with a median follow-up of 7.2 mos. Dose reductions were due to dermatitis/skin rash (3), hand/foot skin reaction (2), hypertension (1) and cramping hands/feet (1). No grade 4 AEs occurred and grade 3 AEs included acne (2), hand/foot skin reaction (1), neutropenia (1), cough (1), wound infection (1), and prolonged PTT (1). Among the 20 pts eligible for efficacy analysis one pt (5%; 95% CI 0.5–20.5%) achieved a PR with duration of 3.6 mos and one pt achieved stable disease for at least 6 mos. The 6-month overall survival rate was 81% and the progression-free survival rates were 53% at 2 mos, 24% at 4 mos and 6% at 6 mos. Median time to progression was 2 mos. Based on the lack of sufficient response, we did not proceed with the 2nd stage of this study. Conclusion: Treatment with oral BAY 43–9006, while well tolerated, does not have sufficient activity to warrant further testing as a single agent in this disease setting.

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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.

Phase II trial of oral vinorelbine for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer in patients ≥65 years of age: an NCCTG study

BACKGROUND

A one-stage phase II trial was conducted to assess the tumor response rate and toxicity profile of single agent oral vinorelbine as first or second-line chemotherapy for women at least 65 years of age with metastatic breast cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty-five patients with metastatic breast cancer aged > or = 65 years of age were enrolled to receive oral vinorelbine on a weekly basis. The oral vinorelbine was given at 60 mg/m2 weekly for the first four doses and was increased to 70 mg/m2 for the subsequent administrations if there was no grade 4 neutropenia or no more than one episode of grade 3 neutropenia. Therapy was continued until progression or intolerable toxicity.

RESULTS

Twenty-five patients were included and evaluable for analysis. One patient (4%) achieved a partial response (PR) that lasted for more than 13 months. Two additional patients remained stable for at least 6 months for a clinical benefit rate (PR + stable disease) of 12%. The 1-year survival rate was estimated to be 48% (95% CI 30% to 74.5%). Median time to progression was estimated to be 4.7 months (95% CI 2.0-5.5 months) and the 9-month disease progression-free rate was estimated to be 8% (95% CI 30.9% to 74.5%). The treatment was fairly well tolerated with grade 3 neutropenia in 12.5%, fatigue in 12.5% of the patients, and grade 2 neuromotor and neurosensory toxicities in 12.5% and 8.3%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Oral vinorelbine as a single agent at these dose and schedule in this population of women > or = 65 years is well tolerated but has a low level of objective efficacy for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer.

A phase II trial of a combination of pemetrexed and gemcitabine in patients with metastatic breast cancer: an NCCTG study

PURPOSE

This phase II study was undertaken to define the efficacy and toxicity of pemetrexed in combination with gemcitabine in patients with metastatic breast cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with measurable metastatic breast cancer who had previously received an anthracycline and a taxane in either the adjuvant or metastatic setting were treated with gemcitabine 1250 mg/m2 (intravenous; days 1 and 8) and pemetrexed 500 mg/m2 (intravenous; day 8) every 21 days.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine patients received a median of five cycles (range one to 22) of treatment and were followed until death or for a median of 28 months (range 19.4-36.6) among living patients. Fourteen partial responses for an overall response rate of 24% [95% confidence interval (CI) 16% to 39%] were documented. Nine (15%; CI 5% to 32%) patients had stable disease for >6 months. The median survival time was 10.3 months (95% CI 8.3-18.9) and the 1 year survival rate was 49% (95% CI 38% to 64%). The median time to progression was estimated to be 3.7 months (95% CI 2.3-5.3). The most common grade 3 or 4 toxicities were neutropenia and thrombocytopenia in 83% and 27% of patients, respectively. Fourteen percent of patients experienced febrile neutropenia. Other common grade 3 or 4 non-hematological toxicities included fatigue (17%), dyspnea (15%), rash (7%) and anorexia (5%).

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of pemetrexed and gemcitabine is clinically active, with an overall response rate of 24% in patients with metastatic breast cancer who have previously been treated with an anthracycline and a taxane. Myelosuppression (66% grade 4 neutropenia and 14% febrile neutropenia) was the major treatment-related toxicity observed for this combination.

Oxaliplatin and capecitabine in patients with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the esophagus, gastroesophageal junction and gastric cardia: a phase II study from the North Central Cancer Treatment Group

PURPOSE

The synergic combination of oxaliplatin and capecitabine has demonstrated activity against various gastrointestinal cancers, including colon cancer. We therefore undertook this phase II study to test this first-line combination in patients with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the esophagus, gastroesophageal junction and gastric cardia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Forty-three patients with histologic or cytologic confirmation of the above malignancy were recruited. The cohort had Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance statuses of 0, 1 and 2 in 47%, 51%, and 2%, respectively. Median age was 61 years (range 32-80). All had adequate organ function. Initially, patients were prescribed 130 mg/m2 intravenously on day 1 and capecitabine 1000 mg/m2 orally twice a day, on days 1-14 of a 21-day cycle. Four treatment-related deaths in the first 24 patients led to a reduction in capecitabine to 850 mg/m2 orally twice a day, days 1-14, for the remainder of the cohort.

RESULTS

The tumor response rate was 35% [95% confidence intervals (CI) 23% to 50%]. All responses were partial; seven of 24 occurred before the capecitabine dose reduction, and eight of 19 after. Median time to tumor progression was 4 months (95% CI 3.1-4.6), and median survival 6.4 months (95% CI 4.6-10). To date, there have been 36 deaths. Four were treatment-related (one infection, two myocardial infarctions, one respiratory failure), and all occurred before the capecitabine dose reduction. Notable grade 4 events from the entire cohort included diarrhea (two patients), vomiting (three), dyspnea (one), thrombosis (two) and anorexia (two). Grade 3 events included nausea (12 patients), diarrhea (12), fatigue (10), abdominal pain (seven), vomiting (six), dyspnea (six), hypokalemia (six), dehydration (five), hypokalemia (five) and infection (four).

CONCLUSIONS

Oxaliplatin and capecitabine in combination demonstrates activity in metastatic adenocarcinoma of the esophagus, gastroesophageal junction and gastric cardia. The lower dose (capecitabine 850 mg/m2 orally twice a day, days 1-14, and oxaliplatin 130 mg/m2 intravenously on day 1) yielded an acceptable toxicity profile and merits further study.

Significance of neuron-specific enolase levels before and during therapy for small cell lung cancer

The level of serum neuron-specific enolase (NSE) has been implicated as a prognostic factor for patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC). A prospective evaluation was undertaken to assess the prognostic significance of pretreatment NSE and treatment-induced minimum NSE values in patients with SCLC. Patients from two Phase III North Central Cancer Treatment Group trials [one for patients with extensive stage SCLC and one for patients with limited stage SCLC] were asked to enter this laboratory correlational trial. Both trials included treatment with four to six cycles of etoposide and cisplatin, and 121 patients (71 extensive stage SCLC and 50 limited stage SCLC) were entered into the present study of NSE. Pretreatment NSE values and treatment-induced minimum NSE values were independent predictors of time to progression and survival in multivariate analysis. Hazard rate modeling allowed the formulation of specific relationships of NSE to time to progression and survival. Pretreatment NSE levels inversely correlated with time to progression and survival in these patients with SCLC. Pretreatment NSE accounted for 28% of the variance in survival. Both pretreatment NSE and treatment-induced minimum NSE were independent prognostic predictors of time to progression and survival.

Randomized comparison of megestrol acetate versus dexamethasone versus fluoxymesterone for the treatment of cancer anorexia/cachexia

PURPOSE

Previous double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trials have demonstrated that both corticosteroids and progestational agents do partially alleviate cancer anorexia/cachexia. Pilot information suggested that an anabolic corticosteroid might also improve appetite in patients with cancer anorexia/cachexia. The current trial was developed to compare and contrast a progestational agent, a corticosteroid, and an anabolic corticosteroid for the treatment of cancer anorexia/cachexia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients suffering from cancer anorexia/cachexia were randomized to receive either dexamethasone 0. 75 mg qid, megestrol acetate 800 mg orally every day, or fluoxymesterone 10 mg orally bid. Patients were observed at monthly intervals to evaluate weight changes and drug toxicity. Patients also completed questionnaires at baseline and at monthly intervals to evaluate appetite and drug toxicities.

RESULTS

Fluoxymesterone resulted in significantly less appetite enhancement and did not have a favorable toxicity profile. Megestrol acetate and dexamethasone caused a similar degree of appetite enhancement and similar changes in nonfluid weight status, with nonsignificant trends favoring megestrol acetate for both of these parameters. Dexamethasone was observed to have more corticosteroid-type toxicity and a higher rate of drug discontinuation because of toxicity and/or patient refusal than megestrol acetate (36% v 25%; P =.03). Megestrol acetate had a higher rate of deep venous thrombosis than dexamethasone (5% v 1%; P =.06).

CONCLUSION

Whereas fluoxymesterone clearly seems to be an inferior choice for treating cancer anorexia/cachexia, megestrol acetate and dexamethasone have similar appetite stimulating efficacy but differing toxicity profiles.

Phase I study of 5-fluorouracil administered by protracted venous infusion, leucovorin, and pelvic radiation therapy

BACKGROUND

This study was designed to assess the toxicity of pelvic radiation therapy, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) administered by protracted venous infusion, and leucovorin.

METHODS

Pelvic radiation therapy consisted of 50.4-54 gray (Gy) administered in 28-30 fractions. Systemic treatment consisted of leucovorin (10 mg daily) administered orally and protracted venous infusion of 5-FU. The initial daily 5-FU dose was 150 mg/m(2). Dose escalations were planned in increments of 25 mg/m(2).

RESULTS

Forty eligible patients were registered, of whom 37 were evaluable for chemoradiotherapy-related toxicity. Grade 3 or 4 toxicity secondary to radiation therapy, protracted venous infusion of 5-FU, and leucovorin occurred in 2 of 17 patients at a daily 5-FU dose of 150 mg/m(2), in 5 of 10 patients at a daily 5-FU dose of 175 mg/m(2), and in 5 of 10 patients at a daily 5-FU dose of 200 mg/m(2). Diarrhea was dose-limiting in 7 of 8 patients with Grade 4 toxicity. Venous thrombosis, a treatment-related complication not directly related to chemotherapy or radiation therapy, occurred in 5 of the 40 patients entered into this study. Four thromboses occurred at the site of a central catheter. No thrombotic complications occurred in the last 7 patients, who were given warfarin orally (1 mg daily) during treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Toxicity due to radiation therapy, protracted venous infusion of 5-FU, and leucovorin when 5-FU is given daily at a dose of 150 mg/m(2) is similar to that observed in current chemoradiotherapy regimens for patients with rectal carcinoma. This regimen will be considered as a possible investigational treatment arm of a future trial of adjuvant therapy for rectal carcinoma patients.

Phase III clinical trial of the combination of cisplatin, dacarbazine, and carmustine with or without tamoxifen in patients with advanced malignant melanoma

PURPOSE

A prospective randomized phase III clinical trial was conducted to assess whether the addition of tamoxifen (TAM) to the three-agent regimen of cisplatin (CDDP), dacarbazine (DTIC), and carmustine (BCNU) significantly increased the progression-free survival and overall survival of patients with advanced malignant melanoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with advanced malignant melanoma were treated with CDDP + DTIC + BCNU (CDB) with or without TAM. The dose schedule was CDDP 25 mg/m(2) given intravenously (IV) for 30 to 45 minutes in 500 mL of dextrose and (1/2) normal saline (NS) on days 1 to 3 of a 3-week cycle; DTIC 220 mg/m(2) IV for 1 hour in 500 mL of dextrose and (1/2) NaCl on days 1 to 3 of a 3-week cycle; BCNU 150 mg/m(2) IV for 2 to 3 hours in 750 to 1,000 mL of dextrose and 5% water on day 1 of every odd 3-week cycle; and TAM 20 mg taken orally every morning.

RESULTS

There were 184 eligible patients enrolled. These patients were observed until death or for a minimum of 1.3 years. At last contact, 12 were still alive. The median time to progression was 3.4 months on the CDB arm and 3.1 months on the CDB + TAM arm. The median survival time was 6.8 months with CDB and 6.9 months with CDB + TAM. Progression-free survival (P =.429) and overall survival (P =.545) were not found to differ by treatment.

CONCLUSION

The addition of TAM to this three-agent regimen of CDB was not found to provide a meaningful clinical advantage in the treatment of patients with advanced malignant melanoma.