Chemotherapy of metastatic gastrointestinal neoplasms with 5-fluorouracil and streptozotocin
Seligman, M.; Bukowski, R.M.; Groppe, C.W.; Weick, J.K.; Hewlett, J.S.; Greenstreet, R.L.
Cancer Treatment Reports 61(7): 1375-1377
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0361-5960 PMID: 201379 Document Number: 118300
The response rate in pancreatic cancer to 5-FU [5-fluorouracil] and streptozotocin was 21%. The overall response rates to 5-FU and streptozotocin as single agents against pancreatic cancer are reported to be 20 and 33%, respectively, and appear similar to the combination of these 2 agents in this study. In gastric adenocarcinoma the response rate was 33%. The overall objective response rate to 5-FU as a single agent is 27% and the rate of the present drug combination appears similar to this. The exact response rate to the combination of 5-FU and streptozotocin in gastric carcinoma remains to be determined. The combination of 5-FU with a minimally myelosuppressive nitrosourea is advantageous in that other drugs such as mitomycin C or adriamycin can be added to this combination without additive toxicity. The response rate in colon cancer was unremarkable and effectiveness in metastatic carcinoid and islet cell neoplasms remains to be determined. The combination of 5-FU and streptozotocin is a well tolerated regimen with only moderate toxicity. If response rates in patients with adenocarcinoma of the stomach can be confirmed, the study of additional combinations including mitomycin C and/or adriamycin in this neoplasm may be justified.