B35 - Neo-adjuvant treatment in patients with pancreatic cancer with nab-paclitaxel and gemcitabine

Abstract

Purpose: Pancreatic adenocarcinoma remains one of the deadliest forms of cancer. In this study, we analyzed the efficacy, and toxicity of neo-adjuvant chemotherapy in the treatment of for borderline resectable or unresectable locally advanced pancreatic cancer. Methods: Fifteen patients affected by locally advanced pancreatic cancer treated with nab-paclitaxel and gemcitabine chemotherapy were evaluate. Median age was 55 years (range 47-69 years). The most frequently ECOG performance status were 1 (65%). The majority of the patients has a borderline resectable disease. (65%). Acute toxicity was prospectively recorded weekly using RTOG and NCI common toxicity criteria.(65%). Results: Within a median follow-up of 16.5 months (range 4-21 months), the majority of the patients received 6-7 of the 9 scheduled cycles of nab-paclitaxel and gemcitabine:: dose reduction were necessary in the 70% of patients. One of patients (15%) achieved a complete response: this patient received also radiotherapy. Partial response were achieved in 15% of patients and stable disease in 75%. Conclusions: Despite the brief period of follow-up and the small number of patients, we conclude that nab-paclitaxel and gemcitabine chemotherapy (+/- radiotherapy) is a valid option in locally advanced pancreatic cancer.