Capecitabine as Second and Third-line Chemotherapy in the Treatment of Platinum-refractory Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Abstract

Background: The aim of the study was to evaluate the value of Capecitabine (Xelode) in treatment of epithelial ovarian cancer, after failure of initial chemotherapy. Response rates to first-line chemotherapy in women with ovarian cancer are high but most patients relapse and need further treatment. Recurrent disease is incurable, however, many patients can obtain good palliation from further treatment. Material and Method: The study included 20 patients with epithelial ovarian cancer treated initially with cytoreductive surgery and followed by chemotherapy treatment: 14 patients received platinum/paclitaxel therapy and 6 patients received platinum/cyclophosphamide therapy. Progression of disease was manifested with hepatic metastases in 11 patients (55%), lung metastases in 2 (10%) and an increase in serum CA125 in 5 patients (25%). Comparison of the value of serum CA125 before and after treatment was taken as an indicator of response to chemotherapy. The treatment schedule consisted of oral capecitabine 1250mg/m2 administrated twice daily for 14 days, followed by 7-day rest period. Treatment was administrated orally within 30 min of breakfast and dinner, and swallowed with approximately 200ml of water. The cycle was repeated every 21 days. Results: 18 patients (80%) received 6 courses chemotherapy with Capecitabine, 4 (20%) did not achieve the planned 6 courses of chemotherapy due to deterioration of their general condition. In 10 patients (50%) deceased value of CA125 was observed, in 8 (40%) value was unchanged, and in 2 (10%) an increase of serum CA125 was noted. All 20 patients were evaluable for safety. Capecitabine was very well tolerated, with the most common clinical adverse events being nausea and diarrhoea, neither of which occurred with grade 3 or 4 intensity. Conclusions: Capecitabine has demonstrated promising activity and a favorable safety profile in the treatment of platinum-refractory epithelial ovarian cancer. The safety and convenience advantages afforded to patients over current i.v. options make capecitabine an ideal agent for administration in the outpatient setting, potentially freeing them from the burden of i.v. therapy.