Bladder Cancer Clinical Trials
Despite the success of BCG immunotherapy for superficial bladder cancer, many patients eventually fail. Because BCG prolongs the time to recurrence and progression, patients who fail BCG and other treatments are often at an age when cystectomy is difficult, and with multiple co-morbid conditions, it can even be contra- indicated. We are therefore searching for improved treatments for bladder cancer.
I am pleased to announce that we now have new studies that are hoped will improve the management of bladder cancer. If you have patients that are not responding to standard treatment, please consider one of these options:
- Randomized Comparison of Erlinotinib (Tarceva) and Green tea Polyphenone E versus placebo in former smokers. This NCI funded study directed by Arie Beldegrun at UCLA evaluates promising oral agents- the epidermal growth factor inhibitor Tarceva, and an extract of Green tea, both of which have confirmed antitumor activity in animal models. Patients receive standard therapy including, if needed, maintenance BCG while on study. It is a randomized Phase II study and does include a placebo, so it is not appropriate for very high risk patients.
- CG0070 Adenovirus Therapy of TA, T1, and CIS in BCG Failure Patients. This Phase I-II study is sponsored by Cell Genesys and utilizes a replication-deficient Adenovirus that is selective for TCC and codes for human GMCSF. A single intravesical instillation is given, with increasing doses with each cohort of 3 patients. Non-muscle invasive tumor must be present, and response is evaluated initially two weeks following administration. Very preliminary results are extremely encouraging. Find out more:
Follow up is required for patients in each of these studies, but I will send them back to your care as soon as possible unless you wish otherwise. Referrals can be made by calling me at 602 493 6626.
Created: 3/15/2005 | Updated: 3/31/2006