Ramirez, Robert A.; Beyer, David T.; Chauhan, Aman; Boudreaux, J. Philip; Wang, Yi-Zarn; Woltering, Eugene A.
Abstract
Background. Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are commonly treated with multimodality therapy. The combination of capecitabine and temozolomide (CAPTEM) has been suggested as a treatment option for patients with metastatic NETs. We present our experience with CAPTEM.; Methods. Data on NET patients who were placed on CAPTEM and received at least one cycle were obtained from a Velos eResearch database. Response rate was calculated by RECIST 1.1. Overall survival and progression-free survival (PFS) were calculated by the Kaplan-Meier survival method.; Results. A total of 29 patients (17 male and 12 female) were included. Median age at CAPTEM initiation was 58 years (range: 26-77). Primary tumors included 9 small bowel (31%), 15 pancreas (52%), 3 lung (10%), and 2 rectum (7%). Median number of CAPTEM cycles was 8 (range: 1-55). Partial response occurred in 5 patients (5 of 29, 17%); 14 patients (14 of 29, 48%) had stable disease, and 10 patients (10 of 29, 34%) had progressive disease. A total of 3 (20%) and 5 (33%) pancreatic NETs experienced partial response and stable disease, respectively. A total of 2 (14%) and 9 (64%) nonpancreatic NETs experienced partial response and stable disease, respectively. Partial response was noted in 1 patient (13%) and stable disease in 5 patients (63%) with Ki-67 values of less than 2%. In patients with Ki-67 values of 2%-20%, partial response was noted in 3 (19%) and stable disease in 8 (50%). Partial response and stable disease were noted in 1 patient each (20%) with Ki-67 values greater than 20%. Median PFS was 12 months. Adverse reactions caused dose reductions in 24% of patients.; Conclusion. Although adverse reactions were experienced, most patients tolerated this regimen. CAPTEM should be considered as a reasonable treatment option for metastatic NET patients.
