Phase II study of a 72-h concurrent continuous infusion of cisplatin and etoposide in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer

We conducted a phase II study to evaluate the antitumor activity and safety of concurrent continuous infusion of cisplatin and etoposide in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Cisplatin (30 mg/m² daily) and etoposide (80 mg/m² daily) were given as a 24-h continuous infusion for 72 h to 48 patients with previously untreated advanced NSCLC. Of the 46 evaluable patients, 9 achieved a partial response, for an overall response rate of 20% (95% confidence interval, 9.4%-33.9%). The median duration of response was 23 weeks. The median duration of survival for all patients was 34.4 weeks. The major toxicity was hematologic. Leukopenia (WHO grade ≥3) was observed in 22 patients (48%) and thrombocytopenia (WHO grade ≥3), in 13 patients (28%). In all, 20 patients (43%) experienced severe anemia (WHO grade ≥3). Nonhematologic toxicity mainly consisted of moderate to severe alopecia in 33 patients (72%) and moderate to severe nausea and vomiting in 25 patients (54%). No sigificant nephrotoxicity was seen. We conclude that a 72-h concurrent continuous infuson of cisplatin and etoposide does not appear to be active against advanced NSCLC.