5-Fluorouracil, leucovorin and interferon alpha 2b in advanced pancreatic cancer: a pilot study.
BACKGROUND
On the basis of data suggesting the possibility of maximizing the efficacy of 5-FU by LV and IFN, a pilot clinical trial was initiated in advanced pancreatic cancer.


METHODS
Twenty-four patients received weekly 5-FU 600 mg/m2 bolus 1 hour after the initiation of a 2-hour infusion of 500 mg/m2 of leucovorin. Three MU of interferon alpha 2b was administered subcutaneously three times a week.


RESULTS
Two of 22 evaluable patients obtained partial responses (8%, confidence interval 3%-33%). Toxicity was severe. Diarrhea and stomatitis were the most common side effects, occurring in 50% and 25% of patients, respectively.


CONCLUSIONS
Because of the presence of severe toxicity we suggest that further clinical trials in pancreatic cancer be attempted only after a better definition in preclinical studies of interactions among 5-FU, leucovorin and interferon.
Cascinu
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Servizio di Oncologia, Ospedali Riuniti, Pesaro, Italy.
Fedeli
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Fedeli
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Catalano
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D000368:Aged; D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D005472:Fluorouracil / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D016898:Interferon-alpha / Q000008:administration & dosage; D002955:Leucovorin / Q000008:administration & dosage; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010190:Pancreatic Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011379:Prognosis
D016898:Interferon-alpha; D002955:Leucovorin; D005472:Fluorouracil