Prostate Cancer Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Prostate Cancer, including details on symptoms, genetics, screening, treatment, information.

A phase II study of higher dose docetaxel in androgen-independent prostate cancer.

Laber DA, Glisson SD, Hargis JB, Kosfeld RE, Goldsmith G, Cervera A, La Rocca RV

J.G. Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA. damianla@ulh.org

OBJECTIVES: To assess the efficacy and toxicity profile of single agent docetaxel at a higher dose than previously evaluated in patients with androgen-independent prostate cancer (AIPC). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients with metastatic and progressive AIPC were treated with docetaxel 100 mg/m on day 1 of a 3-week cycle. RESULTS: Twenty-five patients with overt and rapid symptomatic deterioration from AIPC were entered into this study. Nine men achieved a reduction in PSA of >50% and 4 >80% for an overall PSA response of 52% (95% confidence interval [CI], 31-73%). Sixty percent of men experienced pain relief. Of 16 subjects with measurable disease, 25% achieved partial response (95% CI, 0-48 months), 44% stable disease, and 31% progressed. Median time to progression was 4.5 months (95% CI, 2.9-6.1 month) and median survival was 9.3 months (95% CI, 5.7-12.9 months). Toxicity was significant and included grade 3 or greater neutropenia (76%), dehydration (16%), thrombosis (8%), confusion (4%), and death (4%). CONCLUSION: Docetaxel is an active agent against AIPC and should be used judiciously. The side effect profile of the 100 mg/m dose was significant and cannot be recommended for everyday clinical practice.

Published 7 August 2006 in Am J Clin Oncol, 29(4): 389-94.
Full-text of this article is available online (may require subscription).

© 2004-2008 Prostate Cancer Research Today. All Rights Reserved.