Intra-arterial chemotherapy for brain tumors.
Direct comparisons of theoretical modeling with actual drug delivery can lead to improved brain tumor therapy. In this study, normal and brain tumor-bearing rabbits received infusions of BCNU, or carmustine (1,3-bis [2-chlorethyl]-1-nitrosourea), with ethanol or hyperoxygenated perfluorocarbons as BCNU diluent. When ethanol was used as a diluent, right (infused) hemisphere:left (noninfused) hemisphere ratios of BCNU concentrations in both rabbit groups were markedly lower than had been predicted with theoretical pharmacokinetic modeling. When perfluorocarbons were used as a diluent, ratios of BCNU were significantly improved. These laboratory studies were directly translated into a two-phase protocol for human brain tumor patients. This combined research program demonstrates the successful integration of laboratory and clinical programs.
Hassenbusch
S J
SJ
Department of Neurosurgery, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio 44195-5226.
Anderson
J H
JH
Whiting
D M
DM
D000704:Analysis of Variance; D000818:Animals; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*; D002330:Carmustine / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000431:Ethanol / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005466:Fluorocarbons / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D007261:Infusions, Intra-Arterial; D011817:Rabbits
D005466:Fluorocarbons; D000431:Ethanol; D002330:Carmustine