[Combination of docetaxel and capecitabine for the treatment of anthracycline-resistant advanced breast carcinoma].

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of docetaxel and capecitabine combination in the treatment of anthracycline-resistant advanced breast carcinoma.

METHODS

Forty-three patients with anthracycline-resistant advanced breast carcinoma were treated with docetaxel combined with capecitabine between January 2002 and November 2004. Docetaxel was administered intravenously at a dose of 75 mg/m(2) on D1, and oral intake of capecitabine at a dose of 1600 mg/d on D1 to D14, every 21 days as a cycle. The median number of cycles was 4 (range, 4 approximately 6 cycles).

RESULTS

All the 43 patients had a mean follow-up of 15 months. The overall response rate was 62.8%, with a complete response rate of 20.9% and partial response rate of 44.2%. The median survival time was 15 months with a median time to progression of 7.5 months. The one-year and 2-year survival rates were 62.8% and 41.9%, respectively. The quality of life was improved in all patients. The major toxicity and adverse effects were gastrointestinal reaction and hematological toxicity.

CONCLUSION

The combination of docetaxel and capecitabine for the treatment of anthracycline-resistant advanced breast carcinoma is effective, safe and tolerable.