[Irinotecan-containing combinations in solid tumors, except colonic carcinomas]

Abstract

Irinotecan is a new topoisomerase I inhibitor. It has demonstrated antitumor activity in solid tumors, independently of the histologic type, and in squamous cervical carcinoma. Its original mechanism of action offers the possibility to combine it with other drugs. In vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated synergistic activity between irinotecan, cisplatin and etoposide. This article reviews the main published phases I and II studies with irinotecan. The limiting toxicity of combination schedules in neutropenia. The best results were obtained with the association cisplatin-irinotecan in lung cancer. For the combination etoposide-irinotecan the best schedule of administration remains to be determined.