Combination chemotherapy using cyclophosphamide, vincristine, methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil in solid tumors

Results of a combination chemotherapeutic regimen consisting of cyclophosphamide, vincristine, methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil for disseminated solid tumors in 31 patients are presented. Objective response was noted in 16 of these cases. Particularly responsive were malignant melanoma, pancreatic adenocarcinoma and certain mesenchymal sarcomas. Of those patients achieving a good objective response, the average survival is as follows: malignant melanoma = 9.4 months; pancreatic adenocarcinoma = 20.0+ months; and mesenchymal sarcomas = 13.5 months. Two patients achieved a complete remission after three courses of therapy. One with synovial sarcoma is alive at 27+ months, and the other with melanoma is alive at 11.0+ months. Toxicity was noted in 25 cases with 13 noting moderate toxicity, producing a delay in treatment. Patients' performance status paralleled objective response in most cases. These data reflect some support for the theoretical basis for efficacy of combined drugs in the treatment of disseminated solid tumors.