Asbestos Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Asbestos, including details on mesothelioma, lung disease, dangers, effects, risks.

Efficacy and safety of first- or second-line irinotecan, cisplatin, and mitomycin in mesothelioma.

Fennell DA, Steele JP, Shamash J, Evans MT, Wells P, Sheaff MT, Rudd RM, Stebbing J

Lung and Mesothelioma Unit, Department of Medical Oncology, St Bartholomew's Hospital, West Smithfield, London, UK.

BACKGROUND: Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rapidly progressive lethal tumor. Treatment options remain limited and the outcome in recurrent disease is poor. METHODS: A Phase II open-label noncomparative study was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of the triplet combination irinotecan, cisplatin, and mitomycin-C (IPM) chemotherapy in untreated patients and in those with previous exposure to chemotherapy. RESULTS: In 62 patients an objective response rate of 25% was observed. In the first-line setting progression-free survival measured 6.4 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.5-7.3) and overall survival was 10.8 months (95% CI: 7.9-13.7). In the second-line setting progression-free survival was 7.3 months (95% CI: 3.4-11.2) and overall survival was also 7.3 months (95% CI: 4.8-9.8). Psychosocial well-being improved during chemotherapy and the main toxicity observed was neutropenia (40%). CONCLUSIONS: IPM appeared to have a reasonable response rate with an acceptable toxicity profile in the first- and second-line treatment of MPM.

Published 2 January 2007 in Cancer, 109(1): 93-9.
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