Bleomycin-ifosfamide-cis-platinum (BIP) in pelvic recurrence of previously irradiated cervical carcinoma: a second look.

The response rate and survival obtained with the combined regimen of bleomycin, ifosfamide, and cis-platinum (BIP) were analyzed in a series of 24 patients with recurrent cervical carcinoma in previously irradiated area. The doses were 30 mg, 5000 mg/m2, and 50 mg/m2, respectively. Mesna was given simultaneously (6000 mg/m2). None of the patients were treated with prior chemotherapy. All the patients were evaluable for toxicity and 20 for response. The median survival in patients evaluable for response was 9 months. No complete and 3 partial responses (15%) were observed, with a median duration of survival of 10+ months (range, 9(+) -16). Stable disease was observed in 8 patients (40%) with a median duration of survival of 9.5 months (range, 6(+) -20). Progressive disease was observed in 9 patients (45%) with a median duration of survival of 6 months (range, 3-25+). Four patients received one course only because of toxicity. One of these patients died at home 6 days after the first course, probably because of dehydration. The main toxicities were myelosuppression, renal impairment, alopecia, and nausea/vomiting. In conclusion, the BIP regimen has considerable toxicity. We were not able to confirm the high response rates earlier reported in pelvic recurrence inside a previously irradiated area. Emphasis in future studies must continue to be placed on the development of more active single agents and combinations.