Open AccessNonplatinum‐based therapy with Paclitaxel and Capecitabine for advanced squamous cell carcinomas of the anal canal: A population‐based Danish anal cancer group study
Author(s) -
Truelsen Christina Glismand,
SerupHansen Eva,
Storm Katrine Smedegaard,
Havelund Birgitte Mayland,
Kronborg Camilla Skovhus,
Spindler KarenLise Garm
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
cancer medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.403
H-Index - 53
ISSN - 2045-7634
DOI - 10.1002/cam4.3886
Subject(s) - capecitabine , medicine , regimen , paclitaxel , oncology , fluorouracil , chemotherapy , population , surgery , cancer , colorectal cancer , environmental health
Background First‐line platinum‐based therapy for advanced squamous cell carcinomas of the anal canal (SCCA) implies a risk of substantial side effects, and data on second‐line treatment options are limited. Paclitaxel and Capecitabine are a well‐known regimen with a moderate toxicity profile, but its efficacy has not been evaluated. Methods We conducted a retrospective study using Danish Hospital Registers of patients treated with Paclitaxel and Capecitabine for inoperable, recurrent, or advanced metastatic SCCA in Denmark, between January 2000 and July 2018. Results A total of 52 patients met the eligibility criteria. Median age was 60.7 years (range 42–83). Efficacy was observed, with an overall response rate in patients receiving first‐line ( N = 28) and second‐line ( N = 23) Paclitaxel and Capecitabine of 39.3% (2 with complete responses) and 17.4%, respectively. Median progression‐free survival (PFS) was 4.5 months (95% CI 3.3–5.9) and 3.8 months (95% CI 2.4–5.5) with OS of 6.7 months (95% CI 5.9–8.5) and 5.9 months (95% CI 3.9–14), respectively. Performance status ≥2 and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio ≥4 were significantly associated with a short PFS. Conclusion This study recognizes Paclitaxel and Capecitabine as a potential regimen for advanced SCCA, when recommended first‐line therapy is not feasible or as a potential second‐line treatment after failure of platinum‐based chemotherapy.