Chemosensitivity testing with cis-platinum(II) diamminedichloride : I. A new concept in the treatment of carcinoma of the cervix

A relatively simple, clinically applicable approach for determining the in vivo sensitivity of squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix to cis-platinum(II) diamminedichloride (DDP) is described. Histologic and cytologic characteristics in sequential cervical biopsies were employed to evaluate the sensitivity of tumor to platinum therapy. The remarkable similarity in histologic response of squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix when treated by platinum or radiation therapy suggests that this system might help to identify the patient who would most benefit from systemic platinum chemotherapy, just as it has been useful in identifying patients who can benefit from radiation therapy.