Phase II clinical trial of cis dichlorodiammine platinum (Cis DDP) in metastatic brain tumors

The aim of this study was to examine antitumorigenic Cis DDP properties in metastatic brain tumors. Thirty-four untreated patients with brain metastases recorded by CAT scans or radionuclide scans plus neurological examinations underwent the treatment. Pathohistology of primary tumors mainly showed breast [8] and lung [8] carcinomas and melanomas [10]. Other localizations of primary tumors were infrequent. Cis DDP was administered in doses of 30 mg/m2 body surface daily over 4 days. All the patients received at least two cycles and 33 have been evaluated. No corticosteroids were administered concurrently. An objective response (seven complete and seven partial remissions) was observed in 14 out of 33 patients (42%). Six stable disease cases were also noted. A complete response (5-14 months) was observed in breast cancer [4], lung cancer [1], and melanoma [2]. Seven partial responses lasted 2-5 months. Antitumorigenic activity of Cis DDP was also noted in extracerebral tumor lesions, especially in breast cancer patients. Toxicity was moderate but tolerable. The results of this study have shown Cis DDP to possess antitumorigenic properties also in patients with metastatic brain tumors, a point that has not been proved so far.