Sequential high dose-density chemotherapy in advanced ovarian cancer

Introduction of paclitaxel or anthracyclines can improve the results of che motherapy in advanced ovarian cancer Dose intensification (by shortening of intervals between cycles) and sequential administration of active regimens at least theoretically may improve chemotherapy effectiveness. 18 patients entered into a pilot trial of combination chemotherapy. Treatment consiste d of cisplatin 50 mg/m(2) epidoxorubicin 60mg/m(2) and cyclophosphamide 500 mg/m(2) every 14 days for six cycles, followed by paclitaxel 175 mg/m(2) ( 3-hour infusion) every 14 days for four cycles. Granulocyte colony stimulat ing factor at 300 mcg was employed between cycles on days 5-10. 16 out of 1 8 patients who entered the study received a full dose chemotherapy with a r atio between actually received and planned dose intensity of 0.8 or more. N o life-threatening side effect was observed and toxicity was acceptable. Th is new approach based on sequential administration of active regimens at hi gh dose intensity proved feasible, active and devoid of unacceptable toxici ty. The administration the booth of paclitaxel and epidoxorubicin with cisp latin and cyclophosphamide has been rendered possible. Further studies are warranted.