A recent phase II study reveals that the combination of capecitabine and bevacizumab offers promising results for elderly Japanese patients battling unresectable colorectal cancer. This treatment regimen provides a viable first-line chemotherapy option for those unable to undergo intensive therapy.
Study Parameters and Patient Demographics
Conducted between July 2011 and July 2014, the study enrolled 36 patients, with 33 ultimately analyzed. Participants were aged 65 and above, specifically targeting those 76 and older or those between 65-75 unsuitable for aggressive chemotherapy. The median age stood at 78, encompassing a range from 67 to 86 years. Most patients (28 out of 33) maintained a performance status of 0 or 1, indicating relatively good health aside from their cancer diagnosis.
Treatment Outcomes and Safety Profile
Patients received capecitabine at a dosage of 2000 mg/m² per day for the first 14 days, alongside bevacizumab at 7.5 mg/kg on the first day of each 3-week cycle. The treatment demonstrated significant efficacy, with median progression-free survival reaching 10.3 months and overall survival extending to nearly 28 months. Notably, 30.3% of patients responded positively to the treatment, and an impressive 91.0% achieved disease control.
- High disease control rate suggests effectiveness in managing cancer progression.
- Manageable toxicity levels indicate the regimen is tolerable for elderly patients.
- Extended overall survival highlights the potential for improved patient longevity.
The safety profile was acceptable, with the most common severe side effects being hypertension and hand-foot syndrome. One patient experienced a serious gastrointestinal perforation, underscoring the need for careful monitoring during treatment.
This study provides valuable insights into treating metastatic colorectal cancer in elderly populations, particularly within the Japanese demographic. The findings support the use of capecitabine and bevacizumab as a balanced option between efficacy and tolerability. Healthcare providers can consider this regimen when designing personalized treatment plans for older patients, ensuring both effectiveness and quality of life are prioritized.
This article has been prepared with the assistance of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more details, please refer to our Terms and Conditions. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author.
