| Survival: | ? |
| Toxicity Grade: | 4 |
| Treatments: | Biologic therapy |
| Drugs: | |
| Country: | United States |
| City/State/Province: | Boston, Massachusetts |
| Hospital: | Massachusetts General Hospital |
| Journal: | Link |
| Date: | 2/2001 |
| Description: |
| Patients: This Phase I study involved 21 patients with a variety of different solid tumors. Two of the 21 patients had mesothelioma. Treatment: The treatment consisted of the administration of an extract (Ecteinascidin 743 (ET-743) a cytotoxic tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloid) from a marine animal called a tunicate (Ecteinascidia turbinate). Toxicity: Grade 3-4 toxicities included hematologic, transaminitis, cardiac, rhabdomyolysis, renal, fatigue and nausea/vomiting.Results: One of the two mesothelioma patients had a 41% reduction by CT scan in the size of disease in the mediastinal lymph nodes and a pulmonary nodule. This patient’s cancer ultimately grew. Overall survival was not discussed.Support: Research support came from PharmaMar S.A. This company markets ET-743. Correspondence: David P. Ryan, MD |