Normalization of obstructive lung insufficiency in patients under cytostatic treatment for small cell anaplastic lung carcinoma
Osterlind, K.; Dombernowsky, P.; Schroll, M.; Rose, C.
Ugeskrift for Laeger 142(41): 2688-2690
1980
ISSN/ISBN: 0041-5782 PMID: 6255652 Document Number: 159486
The expiratory peak flow rate (PFR) was measured with a Wright's peak flow meter in 28 patients with small-cell anaplastic bronchogenic carcinoma during the course of cytostatic treatment [cyclophosphamide, 1-(2-chloroethyl)-3-cyclohexyl-1-nitrosourea, methotrexate, vincristine, adriamycin, vepeside and radiotherapy]. In 22 patients, who obtained at least 50% or complete reduction of the lung tumor, the PFR increased in median 70% (range: 6-285%) compared to only 15% (range: 8-59%) in 6 patients obtaining minor or no response to the therapy. The difference was statistically significant (P < 0.01). On progression, decreases to or below the initial values were observed. The PFR may be a sensitive indicator of treatment effect and of relapse.