RESUMEN
Fifty consecutive patients with stage IIIB-IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) received the ICE regimen at intermediate doses (ifosfamide 1 g/m2, carboplatin 120 mg/m2, etoposide 80 mg/m2, day 1 to 3, q.4 weeks, for a maximum of 6 cycles). Overall 2 complete response (CR) and 10 partial response (PR) (overall response, OR: 24%, 95% C.I. 14-37%) were observed. An additional 7 patients had stable disease (SD) lasting more than 6 months, therefore a clinical benefit (CR+PR+SD >6 mos) was achieved in 19 patients (38%). Median time-to-progression (TTP) was 7 months and median overall survival (OS) was 11 months; 1- and 2-year survival rates were 36% and 10%. The ICE regimen was well tolerated and devoid of any cardiac, hepatic or neurologic toxicity. Moderate nausea and vomiting were easily manageable, grade 2 alopecia was universal, while hematological toxicity was mild (grade 2 leuko- and thrombocytopenia). Due to its efficacy and safety profile, this 3-drug regimen can be considered for routine community use.