Phase II study of a 72-h concurrent continuous infusion of cisplatin and etoposide in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer. 
We conducted a phase II study to evaluate the antitumor activity and safety of concurrent continuous infusion of cisplatin and etoposide in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).  Cisplatin (30 mg/m2 daily) and etoposide (80 mg/m2 daily) were given as a 24-h continuous infusion for 72 h to 48 patients with previously untreated advanced NSCLC.  Of the 46 evaluable patients, 9 achieved a partial response, for an overall response rate of 20% (95% confidence interval, 9.4%-33.9%).  The median duration of response was 23 weeks.  The median duration of survival for all patients was 34.4 weeks.  The major toxicity was hematologic.  Leukopenia (WHO grade > or = 3) was observed in 22 patients (48%) and thrombocytopenia (WHO grade > or = 3), in 13 patients (28%).  In all, 20 patients (43%) experienced severe anemia (WHO grade > or = 3).  Nonhematologic toxicity mainly consisted of moderate to severe alopecia in 33 patients (72%) and moderate to severe nausea and vomiting in 25 patients (54%).  No significant nephrotoxicity was seen.  We conclude that a 72-h concurrent continuous infusion of cisplatin and etoposide does not appear to be active against advanced NSCLC.