Concomitant and adjuvant temozolomide (TMZ) and radiotherapy (RT) for newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Conclusive results of a randomized phase III trial by the EORTC Brain & RT Groups and NCIC Clinical Trials Group

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Abstract
2 Background: Standard therapy of GBM after biopsy or resection is RT. TMZ, a novel methylating agent demonstrated some activity against recurrent glioma. In a phase II trial we observed a potential survival advantage by adding TMZ concomitantly and adjuvant to RT (Stupp et al. JCO 2002). In this randomized trial we tested this novel regimen against RT. Methods: Patients (pts) age 18–70 years with histologically proven newly diagnosed GBM (WHO grade IV) were eligible. Pts were randomized between standard RT (60 Gy in 30 daily fractions of 2 Gy) versus the same RT and concomitant (TMZ 75 mg/m2/d, daily up to 42 days) followed by up to 6 cycles of adjuvant TMZ (150–200 mg/m2, daily x 5d, q28 d). Survival (intent to treat) was the primary endpoint aiming at a 30% improvement (log-rank). Pathology was centrally reviewed. Results: Five hundred and seventy-three pts from 85 centers were randomized. Median follow-up is 2 years, 436 patients have died. Median time between histological diagnosis and treatment start was 5 weeks. RT was delivered as prescribed in 93% of pts. Concomitant TMZ was administered without interruption in 76%, temporarily interrupted in 11% and prematurely discontinued in 12%. Adjuvant TMZ was given to 76% of pts, 36% completed all 6 cycles for a total of 924 cycles. The increase in median survival is 3 months. The log-rank test is significant with a p-value of < .0001. The hazard ratio is 0.62 (95% c.i. 0.51–0.75). Grade 3/4 hematotoxicity was observed in 7% of pts during concomitant TMZ/RT treatment, and in 16% (5.2% of cycles) of the adjuvant TMZ. Patients continue to be followed to evaluate long term effects of treatment. Conclusions: Concomitant and adjuvant TMZ chemotherapy significantly improves PFS and overall survival in GBM pts. This treatment is safe and well tolerated.

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