Cis-diaminodichloroplatinum (II) chemotherapy for advanced adenocarcinoma of the upper gastrointestinal tract.

A phase II study of cis-diaminodichloroplatinum (II) (cis-DDP) was carried out in 55 patients with advanced adenocarcinoma of the upper gastrointestinal tract. The drug was given at a dose of 100 mg/m2 i.v. over 2h every 3-4 weeks, with hydration and mannitol diuresis. There were 3 partial responses (6%) among 51 evaluable patients (esophagus 12, stomach 16, pancreas 14, liver 6, and biliary 3). Toxicity was moderate with cumulative nephrotoxicity being the most serious side effect. Myelosuppression was noted in 25% of patients, all having had prior therapy with mitomycin C and nitrosoureas. Activity of cis-DDP as a single agent against adenocarcinoma of the upper gastrointestinal tract in our patient population was minimal.