Two cases of recurrent small-cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix treated with amrubicin as salvage chemotherapy

Abstract

Small-cell carcinoma of the cervix (SCCC) is a rare and aggressive tumor; however, no definitive treatment guidelines for SCCC exist. A review of case series revealed that the most frequently used first-line chemotherapy regimen is combination etoposide and cisplatin, which is also used for small-cell lung cancer (SCLC). For recurrent SCLC, the utility of amrubicin (AMR) has recently been reported. However, optimal second-line chemotherapy for recurrent SCCC has remained unclear. Herein the authors report their experience using AMR as salvage chemotherapy for two patients with recurrent SCCC. AMR resulted in disease stabilization in both patients, with relatively long progression-free survival (PFS) of five and 14 months for platinum-refractory and -sensitive disease, respectively. No severe (grade >3) hematological or non-hematological toxicities were observed. In conclusion, AMR may be as effective and safe for recurrent SCCC as it is for recurrent SCLC. To further evaluate the efficacy and safety of AMR for recurrent SCCC, it is necessary to collect additional case studies or conduct a phase II trial.