Phase II trial of paclitaxel, carboplatin, and bevacizumab for advanced or recurrent cervical cancer

Abstract

Objective: We evaluated the efficacy and safety of the combination of paclitaxel, carboplatin, and bevacizumab in patients with advanced or recurrent cervical cancer.

Methods: Subjects included patients with advanced or recurrent cervical cancer not amenable to curative treatment with surgery or radiation therapy. Treatment consisted of paclitaxel 175 mg/m², carboplatin area under the curve 6 mg/mL/min, and bevacizumab 15 mg/kg every 21 days until disease progression, complete remission, or limiting toxicity. The primary endpoint was the objective response.

Results: In total, 34 patients received a median of 6 treatment cycles (range 2-25). The median follow-up period was 18.5 months (range 2-29). The objective response was 88% (95% confidence interval: 72.5%-96.7%). Seventeen patients (50%) experienced complete response, whereas 13 patients experienced (38%) partial response with a median duration of 6 months. Grades 3 and 4 hematologic toxicities manifested as neutropenia in 14 (41.2%), leukopenia in 14 (41.2%), anemia in 11 (32.4%), and thrombocytopenia in 9 (26.5%) patients. One patient who underwent prior pelvic irradiation developed grade 2 rectovaginal fistula.

Conclusion: The combination of paclitaxel, carboplatin, and bevacizumab is effective and safe in patients with advanced or recurrent cervical cancer.

Keywords: Bevacizumab; Carboplatin; Cervical cancer; Paclitaxel.