Chemotherapy

I have a diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer with a three and a half year survival so far.  A chemotherapy of Cisplatin and Gemcitabine has been discussed with me as a treatment.  I have had various opinions of this therapy as to side effects, effectiveness, quality of life and survival data.  Any information on this would be helpful.

[Fernando Roque, MD]

Hi.  The combination of Cisplatin and Gemcitabine is a standard regimen given as initial treatment for advanced (stage 3B), metastatic or recurrent non-small cell lung cancer.  When given in advanced disease, it results in a response rate of 22%, a 1-year survival rate of 36% and a 2-year survival rate of 13% (Schiller, 2002), which is comparable to other Cisplatin or Carboplatin combination regimens used for lung cancer.  Giving this chemotherapy offers at least a 24% increase in probability of survival compared to best supportive care (no chemotherapy is given).  Possible side effects of Cisplatin include nausea and vomiting, renal impairment, decreased blood cell counts, numbness and tingling on the tips of the feet and hands, and hearing loss.  Possible side effects of Gemcitabine include nausea and vomiting, decreased blood cell counts, fever, rashes and occasionally lung inflammation (pneumonitis).