Chemotherapy for bronchogenic carcinoma. Methotrexate, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, and lomustine.

Abstract

A combination chemotherapy (MACC) consisting of methotrexate, doxorubicin hydrochloride (Adriamycin), cyclophosphamide, and lomustine (CCNU) was given to 41 patients with stage III bronchogenic carcinoma, 34 of whom had disseminated disease. The objective response rate was 46% for all patients with a median actuarial survival of nine months. Response was seen in all cell types, including four of ten patients with squamous cell carcinoma, six of 17 with adenocarcinoma, and six of seven with small-cell anaplastic carcinoma. Prolongation of survival was apparent for patients of all cell types. Toxic reactions were moderate and allowed for easy outpatient use.