Impact of an all-oral capecitabine and vinorelbine combination regimen on functional status of elderly patients with advanced solid tumours: A multicentre pilot study of the French geriatric oncology group (GERICO)

BackgroundElderly metastatic cancer patients typically have short life expectancy and frequently suboptimal treatment. Goals of therapy should include preservation of functional status as well as clinical response. For elderly patients, oral chemotherapy could be a valuable strategy, avoiding the constraints and risks of intravenous drugs.MethodsThis study assessed effect of an all-oral combination of capecitabine and vinorelbine on functional status (measured by basic Activities of Daily Living [ADL]), toxicity, efficacy and compliance in patients ≥70 years with advanced breast, prostate or lung cancer.ResultsEighty patients were enrolled. After three cycles, 81.8% of patients had stabilised or improved ADL, and 8.6% and 42.9% had a response or stabilised disease. Compliance was excellent (68.8%). The most common grade 3–4 toxicities were haematological (17.9%) and gastrointestinal (7.7%).ConclusionIn elderly cancer patients, an all-oral combination of capecitabine and vinorelbine maintains functional status, is well tolerated, and provides good disease control.