Vinblastine, bleomycin, and cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum(II) in disseminated testicular cancer: preliminary report of a Southwest Oncology Group Study

Abstract

Combination induction chemotherapy consisting of vinblastine, bleomycin, and cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum(II) was administered to 126 patients with advanced germ cell tumors of the testis. Following this 4-month induction therapy, maintenance treatment consisting of chlorambucil and actinomycin D alternating monthly with vinblastine was given for an additional 20-month period. Sixty-four patients (51%) achieved a complete remission, while 33 patients (26%) achieved a partial response. Responses were observed in all histologic categories. Seven patients (11%), who were in complete remission, have relapsed at a median time of 5 months. Median duration of remission is greater than 12 months for complete responders and 4 months for partial responders. Significant leukopenia was noted in 57% of evaluable courses and significant thrombocytopenia was noted in 18%. Less than 20% of patients were noted to have nephrotoxicity. Other toxic effects observed were gastrointestinal (42%), dermatologic (15%), pyrexia (14%), neuromuscular (9%), and pulmonary (less than 5%). Several pretreatment parameters are currently being evaluated to determine the impact on complete remission rate and survival.