Experience with mini ELF regimen (modified ELF) in patients with advanced gastric carcinoma

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of the mini ELF treatment in patients with advanced gastric and esophagogastric adenocarcinoma at a medical school in the public health system. Methods: This is a retrospective study describing an experience with the modified ELF regimen with a lower dose of leucovorin to reduce costs. Data were obtained from medical records on the diagnosis and initial phase of the disease, number of treatment cycles, date of first and last cycle, dosage and intervals, toxicity, delays, dosage adjustments, evaluation of treatment response and reasons for discontinuing treatment. Rresults: A total of 23 patients were treated and 19 completed their treatment. The clinical benefit (overall response + symptoms improvement) was 61%. It was observed eight grade III or higher toxicity events and one death. Cconclusions: The mini ELF regimen is feasible and demonstrated similar efficacy to that reported for the ELF regimen with no increased toxicity and a significant cost reduction due to the lower leucovorin dose employed.

Keywords

• Stomach neoplasms
• Drug therapy
• combination
• Palliative care
• Cost efficiency analysis